About Fire Features

Stunning in scale and vision, this expansive feature can entertain a number of guests.

There are many reasons to consider a fire feature for your garden. They create ambiance and are undeniably beautiful. They provide light and warmth to your space, expanding the times of day and year you will enjoy your garden. You can even use some fire features for cooking, from simple s’mores to full meals.

Simple or elaborate, rustic or elegant, there is a style of fire feature right for your garden. Fire feature styles include: in-ground fire rings, catalogue fire bowls or tables, custom-designed fire tables, and outdoor fireplaces. Fire features can be built from stone, brick, concrete, and metal.

Wood

Timeless, rustic, and romantic, there really is nothing quite like the crackle and glow of a burning log. Wood can produce the warmest fire and also creates coals for cooking. However, wood fires are not for those seeking a hands-off feature. Wood fires must be laid, tended, and carefully put out. A wood fire will produce ash and creates the most smoke. Also, sourcing wood for fuel will be an ongoing need.

A unique and custom wood-burning feature made from weathering steel.

Propane

A good non-wood option for smaller fire features or rural areas is propane gas. Propane tanks are re-fillable and usually small, so they can be moved easily. Many catalog fire tables have a propane fuel source; the feature’s propane tank will either be concealed as part of the feature or will be separate and need camouflaging. Propane fires produce little smoke and no ash. They do not need laying or tending, and can be turned on or off with a simple switch. However, the propane will need to be replenished and the fire may not be as warm as one with wood.

This catalogue fire basin by Solus creates a cozy space for two. Photo credit: Miranda Estes

Gas

Gas-fueled fire features are very popular in urban areas with gas service, and are clean burning and easy to use. The gas is supplied through a permanent line connected directly to the fire feature. Fuel is always available, but the feature cannot be moved around. Similar to a propane-fueled fire, gas fire features also do not need tending, and may be turned on and off at will. Again, there will be little smoke and no ash.

This larger fire table by Solus anchors a terraced patio for the family. Photo credit: Miranda Estes

Things to Keep in Mind

Setbacks: Municipalities often limit or prohibit the use of fire features in yard setbacks. Your local municipal code or building department will have more information.

Permitting: Fireplace structures will need structural engineering and permitting; smaller rings or tables won’t require engineering but may still need a permit. Check with your building department. Supply lines for a gas fire feature will also need a plumbing permit; your contractor will be able to take care of this.

Clearance to eaves or other overheads: Generally a 10’ above-head clearance from any building eaves is required; there may also be restrictions related to overhead wires or nearness to trees.

Being in fire country: Your residential area, municipality, or county may also have burn restrictions to help prevent wildfires. Safety first! Always be sure that your fire is fully put out, especially wood fires. Be aware of where sparks and hot ash are going. And keep a fire extinguisher handy at all times.

Right: This custom-designed gas fireplace met all the

structural and building code requirements of the city.