how far does a generator need to be from the house

For most homes, a safe rule of thumb is to place a portable generator at least 20 feet away from the house and any other structure, with the exhaust pointed away from doors, windows, and vents.

Key distances in simple terms

• Portable generators:
  • At least 20 feet from the house, garage, shed, or any structure.

* Keep 20 feet from doors, windows, and vents, and aim the exhaust in the opposite direction.

• Standby / whole‑home generators (per many codes and manufacturers):
  • Many safety experts still recommend 20 feet for CO safety, but exact placement often follows a “5‑foot rule” from openings: at least 5 feet from windows, doors, and air intakes.

* Some codes allow as close as about 1.5 feet to a **non‑combustible** wall (brick, concrete) if the manufacturer allows it, but still require 5 feet from operable openings.

* Often must also be a few feet away from gas meters, electric panels, and AC units (commonly 3 feet, depending on local rules and manufacturer).

Why distance matters (not just a “nice to have”)

• Carbon monoxide (CO) can build up quickly and travel into the home through tiny openings, especially if the generator is too close or the exhaust points toward the house.

• Fire risk increases if the unit sits too close to combustible siding, decks, or vegetation.

• Noise and vibration also drop as you move the generator farther away, which matters during long outages.

A common safety approach in 2025–2026 guidance is: “Outside, 20 feet away, exhaust pointed away, never in a garage or on a covered porch.”

Quick practical checklist

• Keep your generator:
  • Outside only (never in a home, basement, crawlspace, or garage).

* On a stable, level surface, not on a deck right against the wall.

* At least 20 feet from all structures if it’s portable.

* With exhaust pointing away from all doors, windows, vents, and neighboring homes.

• Also:
  • Use CO detectors inside the house on every level, especially near bedrooms.

* Check local building codes and your generator’s manual; some areas require more than the minimum distance or have special clearance rules.

Mini table of common recommendations

[7][9][5] [5][7] [1][3] [3][9][1]

Generator type	Typical safe distance	Key notes
Portable generator	≥ 20 ft from any structure	Outside only, exhaust away from openings, no garages/porches.
Standby / whole-home	Often 5 ft from openings; local rules may require more, some allow ~1.5 ft from non‑combustible wall.	Must follow manufacturer clearances, local code, and utility spacing rules.

**SEO- style meta description:** Wondering _how far does a generator need to be from the house_? Learn current safety recommendations, typical 20‑foot and 5‑foot rules, and why distance is critical to prevent CO and fire risks.

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