Space, Ground & Surface Requirements

At Best Party Hire, safe setup depends on having the right space, the right ground, and the right surface. This page explains what space is needed, what ground conditions are required, and which surfaces we can and cannot use.

Required Space

So, the standard bouncy castle in the UK is 12ft W x 12ft L x 10ft H. However, if you use those measurements only, you run the risk of the inflatable not fitting.

We add extra space to account for the legal clear area needed around a castle. As an example, we add 4ft at the back for the fan and fan tube, as the fan must be 1.2 metres from the inflatable.

We add 3ft on both sides of the castle for the clear area. This prevents children being able to bounce on the step of the castle and hitting objects on the sides. We also add 3ft to the front for the mats, or 6ft if it has a slide for extra run-off space.

Going from these rules, the 12ft x 12ft castle becomes 18ft x 19ft. We also add 1ft to the height for the movement of the inflatable, making this example 11ft.

Ground Conditions

Level Ground Requirement

Inflatables must be set up on flat, level ground.

The ground must be:

  • Even
  • Stable
  • Free from dips or raised areas

Level ground is essential for:

  • Safe anchoring
  • Stability during use
  • Meeting safety and insurance rules

If the ground is not level, we may be unable to set up.

Slopes, Uneven & Raised Areas

We cannot set up on:

  • Sloping gardens
  • Raised or terraced lawns
  • Stepped areas
  • Uneven or undulating ground

Even small slopes affect safety. If your area isn’t completely flat, tell us before booking.

Hazards & Obstacles

The space must be free from:

  • Trees, bushes, or hedges
  • Furniture or play equipment
  • Poles or fixtures

The ground must also be clear of:

  • Holes or dips
  • Rocks or stones
  • Roots
  • Sharp objects or debris
  • Animal waste

Clear the area in advance to avoid delays or disappointment.

Surface Types

Grass (Required Surface)

Grass is the required surface for most outdoor inflatable hires.

This is because:

  • Ground stakes can be used safely
  • Stability is much better
  • It meets safety and insurance rules

Grass must be:

  • Flat and level
  • Firm, not muddy or waterlogged
  • Free from holes, dips, or slopes

If grass is unsafe (for example, after heavy rain), we may not be able to set up.

Hard Standing (Not Suitable)

We do not set up on hard surfaces, including:

  • Concrete
  • Tarmac
  • Paving slabs
  • Decking
  • Any solid or non-penetrable surface

These cannot be safely anchored with stakes.
If your area is hard standing and this wasn’t discussed in advance, we may be unable to proceed and normal cancellation terms may apply.

Artificial Turf (Case by Case)

Artificial turf is assessed individually.

It may be laid over:

  • Soil or sand (sometimes suitable)
  • Concrete or hard base (not suitable)

We need to know:

  • What it’s laid on (if known)
  • Whether stakes can penetrate
  • Whether membranes or layers are underneath

Some artificial turf can be treated like grass. Others must be treated as unsuitable.
Tell us before booking if your surface is artificial turf.

Please note we will need to drive stakes into the artificial turf. There is a minimum of 6 pegs needed per inflatable, so there will be a minimum of 6 holes left in the astro turf after the hire.

Indoor Spaces & Venues

Indoor bookings are not subject to grass rules.

However, they must still meet:

  • Required floor space
  • Ceiling height
  • Clear access

Also consider:

  • Low beams
  • Light fittings
  • Fire exits

Always confirm venue suitability before booking.

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