How to Measure Your Backyard for a Tent Rental
Hosting an event in your own backyard is a great way to celebrate special occasions with friends and family in a comfortable, familiar setting. But before you book your tent rental, one of the most important steps is making sure the tent will actually fit in your space. Here’s how to measure your backyard so you can confidently reserve the right size tent for your event.
1. Clear the Area
Start by identifying the area where you want to set up the tent. Remove any furniture, landscaping items, or obstacles so you have a clear, open space to measure.
2. Measure the Width and Length
Using a measuring tape (ideally 100 ft. or longer), measure the length and width of your open space. Record these measurements and be sure to note any tight spots or unusual angles that might affect how the tent fits.
💡 Pro Tip: Tent sizes are typically in 10-foot increments (e.g., 20’x20′, 20’x40′), so round down to the nearest multiple to determine what will fit comfortably.
3. Check for Overhead Obstructions
Look up! Are there any low-hanging branches, wires, or other overhead obstructions? Most tents are between 15–20 feet tall depending on the style, so it’s important to make sure there’s enough vertical clearance.
4. Account for Stakes or Weights
If your tent will be staked into the ground, make sure there’s an additional 5 feet of space around the perimeter for guy lines and stakes. If staking isn’t possible (e.g., on patios or asphalt), let your rental company know—you’ll likely need weighted ballasts instead.
5. Consider Event Layout
Think beyond just the tent. Will you have tables, buffet lines, a dance floor, or a DJ? Make sure your tent size allows for everything you plan to include, or consider spreading things out into separate tented areas.
💡 Pro Tip: Check our Event Layout Planner on a website to give you a better idea on how items will fit under your tent size!
6. Take Photos
Once you’ve measured, take photos of the space from different angles and send them to your rental provider. This helps us confirm that everything will fit—and that we can safely deliver and install your tent.
7. Still Not Sure? We Can Help!
If you’re unsure whether a tent will fit or which size to choose, Front Range Event Rental is happy to do a site check or help you work through layout options. We’ve been helping Northern Colorado plan successful backyard events for 20 years!
Need help choosing the right tent?
Contact us today at (970) 221-3159 or info@frontrangeeventrental.com —we’ll make sure your event goes off without a hitch (unless we’re staking it down 😉).
