BERG Trampoline Clearance - How Much Space Do You Need Around Trampoline?

When you’re planning a trampoline, the single most important design decision isn’t the size of the mat—it’s the safety envelope around it. Below is a clear guide to the recommended clearances for BERG trampolines, what changes (and what doesn’t) between Regular (above-ground), InGround, and FlatGround versions, and how a safety net affects your layout.

You need at least 2 m of clear space on all sides and 7 m of overhead clearance around a BERG trampoline, whether above-ground, InGround or FlatGround, with or without a safety net.

How much space do you need around a BERG trampoline? The short answer (numbers you can trust)

  • Side clearance: Keep at least 2 metres free on all sides from fences, walls, trees, play equipment, patios, hard edges, and other obstacles. This applies to all BERG models and installation types. 

  • Overhead clearance: Keep at least 7 metres clear above the trampoline (measured from ground level) to avoid branches, soffits, power lines, pergolas, etc. 

These figures come directly from BERG manuals (e.g., Ultim/Pro Bouncer documentation) and are the baseline we use on every install. Where national standards or site risks demand more room, go larger. 


Why the 2 m / 7 m rule matters

  • Side space gives a buffer for errant landings, mat deflection at high bounce, and safe circulation for spotters and maintenance. Even with a safety net, you still need side clearance so the net itself can flex without striking an obstacle. 

  • Overhead space prevents head/arm contact with branches and ensures a margin for advanced jumps. BERG’s manuals specify 7 m to keep users clear even during higher bounces. 


Above-ground (Regular) vs InGround vs FlatGround: does clearance change?

Clearance distances are the same. The installation style doesn’t reduce the 2 m / 7 m envelope. What does change is how you achieve a safe perimeter and the practicalities of maintenance and drainage.

1) Regular (above-ground)

  • What to plan:

    • Flat, level grass is best; avoid hard surfaces right next to the frame. 

    • Position so the net (if fitted) cannot strike walls or trees when deflected. Keep the full 2 m beyond the outside of the net poles where possible. 

  • Why a net helps:

    • A safety net (e.g., Safety Net Deluxe or DLX XL) prevents users from leaving the mat area unintentionally, but it is not a license to place the trampoline close to obstacles. Nets must have room to flex safely. 

2) InGround

  • What to plan:

    • Maintain the same 2 m side and 7 m overhead clearance. 

    • Keep the pit tidy and dry—allow access around the perimeter for inspection and to keep the frame net (the mesh that closes the gap to the soil) clear of debris.

  • With a net:

    • Nets work very well on InGround models and can be a smart choice in family gardens. You still need the side clearance outside the net

3) FlatGround

  • What to plan:

    • The trampoline sits virtually flush with the lawn, but clearance is unchanged: 2 m around, 7 m overhead. 

    • Because the frame is buried, ensure drainage and the surrounding ground remain stable so the area around the trampoline stays even and trip-free. (Grass or artificial grass are the preferred surfaces.) 

  • With a net:

    • Some FlatGround models are sold without tall enclosures; where nets are used, preserve the same outside clearance to let the enclosure flex safely. 


With a safety net vs without: what changes?

Setup What the net does What stays the same
With a safety net Greatly reduces the chance of exiting the mat area; keeps younger users away from the frame edge; provides a visual boundary. 2 m side and 7 m overhead clearance still required so the enclosure can deflect without striking objects; anchor the trampoline in windy areas per BERG guidance. 
Without a safety net Cleaner look, unobstructed training space (often chosen for older teens/progression work). The 2 m side and 7 m overhead clearances are even more critical. Consider soft landscaping (no hard edges), and enforce one-user-at-a-time rules. 

Installer tip: When measuring side space, do it from the outermost element (net post or frame edge) to the nearest obstacle—not from the jump mat.


Common planning mistakes (and easy fixes)

  • Planting or fencing too close later: gardens evolve, and that new hedge can creep into the 2 m zone. Leave future growth margin. 

  • Overhead branches: trees grow down as well as up; prune to keep the 7 m overhead clear, especially where FlatGround installs make the unit “disappear” in the lawn. 

  • Hard edging and patios: avoid rigid surfaces inside the 2 m buffer; keep paving, sleepers and kerbs outside the safety envelope. 

  • Assuming InGround/FlatGround need less space: they don’t—only the look changes, not the safety envelope. 


Standards note (for the safety-minded)

European toy safety standard EN 71-14 sets safety requirements for domestic trampolines and their enclosures. Manufacturer guidance (like BERG’s 2 m side / 7 m overhead) is designed to satisfy these safety objectives in typical home settings; always follow the specific manual for your model and size. 


Your next steps with Trampolines Ireland

  1. Measure your space: Mark out the trampoline size plus a 2 m boundary all around and look up for obstructions to confirm 7 m overhead clearance. 

  2. Choose install style: Regular for simplicity and mobility; InGround or FlatGround for garden integration (clearances identical).

  3. Decide on a safety net: We recommend nets for family gardens—especially with mixed ages. Ensure you still have the full clearance outside the net. 

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