A great fire pit does more than throw heat — it becomes the reason people linger in your backyard. But with wood-burning, gas, and propane options in a dozen materials and sizes, picking the right one can feel overwhelming. This guide walks through the decisions that actually matter, so you end up with a fire pit that fits your space, your lifestyle, and how you actually plan to use it.
Step 1: Choose Your Fuel Type
This is the first fork in the road, and it shapes almost every other decision.
Wood-Burning gives you the real crackle, the real smoke smell, and the highest heat output. It's the most affordable to run (no gas line or propane tank needed) and works well if you're off-grid or simply love the ritual of building a fire. The tradeoff is more maintenance — ash cleanup, smoke drifting into seating areas, and no instant on/off control.
Gas (Natural Gas) connects to a home gas line for push-button, no-smoke, no-cleanup convenience. Ideal if the fire pit is part of a permanent outdoor living space and you want it lit in seconds on a weeknight, not just for planned gatherings.
Propane offers the same clean, instant-on convenience as natural gas but with portability — no gas line required, just a tank. It's the most flexible option if you rent, aren't ready to run a gas line, or want the fire pit to be movable.
Browse by fuel type: Wood-Burning Fire Pits or Propane Fire Pits.
Step 2: Get the Size Right
A fire pit that's too small gets lost on a large patio; one that's too big overwhelms a cozy space and can throw more heat than you want. As a general rule:
- Under 30": Best for small patios, balconies, or intimate 2-4 person seating.
- 36"-42": The sweet spot for most backyards — comfortably seats 5-8 people around it.
- 44" and up: Built for larger entertaining spaces and bigger groups; leaves room for a proper seating ring around the fire.
Also plan clearance: most manufacturers recommend at least 3 feet of open space in every direction from the fire pit to seating, structures, and overhanging branches. Check the specific clearance requirements on each product page before you buy.
Step 3: Pick a Material That Matches Your Style
Steel is durable, holds up well to high heat, and often develops a natural patina over time that many homeowners love — it's the material behind sculptural, artistic designs like the Fire Pit Art Manta Ray. Look for finish options like iron oxide patina, textured black, or bronze depending on your outdoor palette.
Copper ages into a distinctive green-blue patina and brings a warmer, more traditional look — popular in Southwestern and rustic-luxury settings.
Corten (weathering) steel is engineered to rust on the surface in a controlled way, forming a protective layer underneath. It's a low-maintenance option if you like an industrial, earthy aesthetic.
Step 4: Don't Forget the Accessories
A fire pit is rarely a single purchase — these add-ons make it safer and easier to actually use:
- Base plate: Protects your patio or deck surface from heat damage and gives the fire pit a stable footing.
- Grate: Elevates the wood for better airflow and a cleaner, longer burn.
- Cover: Protects a wood-burning fire pit from rain and debris between uses — especially important for steel finishes.
Shop fire pit grates and accessories to round out your setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a fire pit?
Some cities and HOAs regulate open-flame wood-burning fire pits more than gas or propane. Check local ordinances before installing, especially for a permanent, built-in unit.
Can I put a fire pit on a wood deck?
Only with proper heat-shielding — a base plate and adequate clearance are essential. Gas and propane units generally run cooler at the base than wood-burning fires.
How much should I budget?
Quality steel fire pits from authorized dealers typically start around $1,200-$1,500 and can run several thousand for larger, designer pieces with multiple finish and ignition options.
Ready to Shop?
Browse our full collection of fire pits, or explore our other guides on the Buying Guides hub to find the right outdoor fireplace, electric fireplace, or wood stove for your space.
