How to choose the right outdoor fire pit
Updated June 2026Independently researchedNo paid placement.
The right outdoor fire pit for you comes down to three main choices: fuel type, size, and material. Wood-burning pits give you the classic campfire experience but require cleanup and local burn-permit checks. Propane or natural gas models offer instant-on convenience with less smoke, though you lose the crackle and smell. Focus first on where you will use it, . a deck, a patio, or open yard, . and your local fire rules, then pick a size and material that fits your space and budget.
What type of fuel should you choose?
Wood-burning fire pits are the most affordable upfront and give you that real campfire sound and scent. The trade-off is that they produce smoke, ash, and embers that need to be cleaned out after each use, and you have to buy or chop firewood. Many towns also restrict wood fires during dry months, so check your local burn ordinance before buying. Propane fire pits run off standard grill-sized tanks and light at the push of a button. They produce very little smoke and leave no ash, making them ideal for decks, patios, or apartment balconies where smoke complaints could be an issue. The downside is the ongoing cost of propane tanks and the lack of that wood-fire crackle. Natural gas models are even more convenient if your home already has a gas line, but installation almost always requires a professional plumber and is not something you can do yourself unless you are already handy with gas connections.
How big of a fire pit do you actually need?
Size is about both the footprint and the flame. A small tabletop pit (roughly the size of a large serving platter) works great for a pair of chairs on a tiny balcony or picnic table. Midsize bowls between two and three feet across are the most common and can comfortably warm four to six people sitting in a ring. Large pits over three feet in diameter start feeling more like a communal bonfire and work best if you regularly host bigger gatherings. Portability matters too. Steel or cast-iron bowls that weigh well under a hundred pounds can be moved by one person or tipped into a wheelbarrow. Larger stone or concrete pits are essentially permanent furniture and will need to stay put once placed. If you rent or plan to rearrange your patio frequently, look for something light enough to slide around or that comes with a carry bag.
What materials last the longest?
Heavy-gauge steel, . often powder-coated, . offers a solid balance of durability and affordability. Over several seasons the coating can chip, exposing the steel to rust, but a coat of high-heat paint every year or two keeps it looking good. Cast iron is even heavier and resists warping, but it rusts quickly if the finish is nicked, so it needs prompt drying after rain. Copper fire pits develop a beautiful patina over time and never rust through, but they cost several times more than basic steel models. Stone or concrete bowls are incredibly stable but can crack if a fire is built directly on them without a proper heat shield or liner. For most buyers, powder-coated steel with a removable ash pan gives the best mix of longevity, weight, and price, . just plan to store it covered during wet months.
Where can you safely place a fire pit?
Every fire pit needs a flat, non-combustible base. Concrete, brick, gravel, or stone pavers are ideal. Keep the pit at least ten feet away from your house, deck railings, and any overhanging tree branches, . check your local code because some areas require fifteen or twenty feet. A spark screen is essential for wood-burning pits when you are walking away from the fire even for a minute. Propane and natural gas pits still throw off radiant heat that can melt vinyl siding or warp wooden furniture if placed too close. Also leave a gap of at least three feet on all sides so guests can walk around without brushing against hot metal. On windy days, position the pit so smoke and heat blow away from seating and your house.
Do you need to check local regulations first?
Many cities and counties have year-round or seasonal burn bans that make wood fires illegal. Burn bans do not usually apply to propane and natural gas pits, but some municipalities still restrict them on apartment balconies or within a certain distance of buildings. Homeowner association rules can be even stricter, . some HOAs ban all fire pits outright, while others limit them to gas-only. It is also worth checking your homeowner’s insurance policy. Some insurers require a minimum setback distance or specific base material, and they may exclude damage from fire pits that are not listed on the policy. A short call to your local fire department or city hall, or a quick read of your HOA covenant, can save you a lot of hassle and a potential fine.
What extra features are actually worth paying for?
A removable ash pan is the single most useful add-on for a wood-burning pit because it turns a messy chore into a quick dump. For gas models, a lava-rock or glass-gem filler that comes included is nice, but you can buy a bag of lava rock cheaply later. A cooking grate or a swing-away grill grate turns your fire pit into a dual-purpose outdoor cooker for hot dogs, steaks, or foil packets. A weather cover extends the life of any pit significantly, . especially steel and cast-iron models that rust when left exposed. Ignition systems vary: push-button spark ignition is standard on most propane pits, but some cheaper ones require a barbecue lighter. If you dislike fiddling with matches, pay a little more for a model with a built-in electronic igniter that runs on a simple AAA battery.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a fire pit on a wooden deck?
Yes, but only if the pit is rated for use on a combustible surface, . this is usually listed in the manual. For wood-burning pits, you almost always need a fireproof mat underneath and a spark screen on top. Propane pits with a fully enclosed base are generally safer on decks, but always keep the pit at least several feet from the railing and never leave it unattended.
How do I clean and maintain a fire pit?
For wood pits, scoop out ash after every use (when completely cold) and wipe the interior with a dry cloth. Remove rust spots on steel with a wire brush then touch up with high-heat paint. Gas pits need less frequent cleaning, . just check burner ports for spider webs or debris, and replace lava rocks or glass if they get sooty. A good cover is the easiest maintenance step you can take.
Can I leave a propane fire pit burning overnight?
No, never leave any fire pit burning unattended. Propane pits are safer than wood, but the auto-shutoff timer (if equipped) only helps if you are nearby. The flame can be knocked out by a breeze, allowing unburned gas to accumulate. Always turn it off fully before going inside or falling asleep.
What is the difference between a fire pit and a fire table?
A fire pit is typically a bowl or ring set low to the ground (often at seat height) and meant for gathering around. A fire table is waist-high with a flat rim that functions as a tabletop for drinks and plates. Fire tables tend to be more expensive and work best in lounge-chair seating arrangements, while pits are better for traditional circle seating.
Do I really need a spark screen for a wood-burning pit?
Yes, especially if you have overhanging branches, a wooden deck, or if children or pets are nearby. Embers can pop out twenty feet or more on a breezy night and start grass fires or burn holes in furniture. A mesh screen is one of the cheapest safety upgrades you can buy; many higher-end pits include one in the box.