Residential Landscaping: So You Want an Outdoor Firepit/Fireplace

When it comes to residential landscaping requests, fire features – such as fire pits and outdoor fireplaces – are high on the wish list of any client with even the most marginal space.

You already know why: Fire pits and fireplaces add unparalleled ambiance to outdoor gathering. They also help extend your outdoor living season by a bit.

How to begin selecting what will best suit your needs and space isn’t too hard, so let us help walk you through some considerations. Then, make your dreams a reality this year!

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First, We’ll Begin with Local Ordinances

Because ordinances may be different around the area, check local regulations before moving ahead with your plans. Here in Chicago, the official fact sheet on outdoor Fireplaces, Fire Pits & Grills reads like this:

Outdoor Fireplaces, Fire Pits & Grills Factsheet

Outdoor fireplaces and recreational fire pits are allowed by the City of Chicago as long as they have a top piece like a metal lid, screen or stonework, burn only firewood and do not create excessive smoke. (Note relevant ordinance: 11-4-740 Open fires prohibited. It shall be unlawful to burn paper, wood, garbage, leaves, building construction, demolition debris or any other combustible material in open fires or in metal containers.)

The City of Chicago has no regulations prohibiting grills on decks and porches (however propane grills are not permitted anywhere within a building occupied by more than 20 people).

If you live in an apartment or condo building you should check with your management company or landlord about any rules they might have on fire pits or grills.

For further information, contact the Chicago Fire Department at 312-744-4723.

Be aware that North Chicago and other municipalities may have guidelines or restrictions that differ. Don’t forget to check them!

As well, keep in mind that you will generally need 10-20 feet of clearance between your fire burner and the nearest object, such as plants, other residences and so forth. Sparks and flames should not reach anything combustible, including leaves.

Second, Consider the Types of Fire Pits and Fireplaces and Their Costs

Portable fire pits are available in several types and materials. These include:

A. Chimineas: These are perfect for patios and porches that are not under cover. While you can’t cook with them, they are very safe and don’t put off a lot of smoke. Because they tend to be made of clay or ceramic, chimineas can crack easily. Chimineas are among your least expensive options and tend to sell for $60-400.

B. Fire Pit Tables: These are fun for kicking back and putting your feet up. Fire pit tables can take up a lot of space, depending on the size, and can generally burn wood, propane or even gas, depending on the kind you choose. While they can be great for cooking, larger tables are not easy to move. Prices range from $250-2000.

C. Fire Bowls: Fire bowls tend to be made of cast iron, sit low to the ground and are fairly portable. Because of their relatively small size, fire bowls are fairly inexpensive but can lack impact. Prices range from $100-300 or so.

 

Non-portable fireplaces and fire pits are generally made from stone, brick, stucco or reinforced or cast concrete. You can make a cast concrete fire pit for as little as $500 or so and a weekend’s worth of your time. More elaborate fireplaces, fire pits and patios will likely benefit from the expertise of a residential landscaping specialist, who will help draw out a hardscaping design with your input. Costs for these kinds of projects can start at $5,000 or so at the lower end and go upwards of $65,000 or more, depending on how large and complex your design needs are.

 

Third, Let’s Look at Fireplace and Firepit Fuel Types

A. Wood: Relatively inexpensive to burn, wood fires create an unparalleled ambiance while throwing off tons of heat. On the downside, the smoke and odor they create linger on clothing and hair and can trigger allergies. Additionally, some neighbors may not appreciate being subject to odors every time you want to burn a fire. Additionally, firewood, which often attracts insects, should be kept dry.

B. Natural Gas: Natural gas offers supreme convenience, is inexpensive to burn, throws off a great deal of heat, is great for cooking over and doesn’t smell. The flip side is that installing gas lines is typically not an inexpensive proposition. That said, people who use natural gas generally tend to rave over its convenience.

C. Propane: Propane burns fairly cleanly and, like gas, the flame can usually be easily adjusted to control the amount of heat being put out. Propane’s downside includes having to haul heavy tanks to refill stations and then pay $20 or so for a refill. It’s also easy enough to run out of fuel in the middle of entertaining unless you keep a full extra tank around.

D. Gel: Is great for clean burning. While gel doesn’t throw much heat off (which can also be a plus), replacement gels can be hard to find (except online). Like propane, gets are not the least expensive option for creating your fire.

In Closing

With choices like these, nearly anyone with an interest in adding the ambiance offered by fire to their outdoor spaces can make their wish a reality.

As always, if I can help with your design needs, please don’t hesitate to reach out. And remember, the longer lead time you give yourself in planning, the better the probability you’ll have of achieving your outdoor dreams for this summer.[/vc_column_text]