Search
Close this search box.

Fire Pit in a Gazebo? Yes! 40 FAQs, Tips, Ideas, and More

Are you wondering if you can put a fire pit in a gazebo? The short answer is yes! Read the info below to make this combo a perfect fit for your backyard!

When you buy from a retailer link on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Read our affiliate disclaimer here.

When it comes to outdoor living spaces, gazebos are a popular addition to backyards. They provide a shaded area to relax and entertain guests. One question that often arises when considering a gazebo is whether or not a fire pit can be used inside.

While the answer is yes, there are some precautions and things to consider, like the type of fire pit, the materials used to build the gazebo, and the size of the gazebo. However, with the right precautions and safety measures in place, it is possible to safely use a fire pit inside a gazebo.

My post below will explore the common FAQs, tips, and ideas for having a fire pit in a gazebo, so you can enjoy your outdoor living space to the fullest.

So read on below!

When you are done reading below, come back and check out:

👉 If you are looking for a complete fire pit table conversation set, check out our roundup of some of the best fire pit table conversation sets.

👉 Make sure you have all the must-have accessories to use your fire pit table to the fullest.

Fire Pit in a Gazebo
Table of Contents

To give you a complete overview of all you need to know about having a fire pit in a gazebo, I answer 9 Frequently Asked Questions with a mix of 31 ideas and tips in the sections below

Can You Have a Fire Pit in a Gazebo?

The simple answer is: Yes! You can have a fire pit in a gazebo! However, there are several things you need to consider to make sure you do it the right way. This includes:

  • Common safety measures and precautions
  • The type of fire pits you can use
  • Gazebo roof material
  • Gazebo structure material
  • What is nearby the fire pit
  • What is under the fire pit

✅ Natural gas and propane fire pits are generally safer to use in a gazebo than wood-burning fire pits because they produce less smoke and sparks. However, it’s still essential to ensure proper ventilation to prevent damage to your gazebo and prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

What are Safety Measures and Precautions Tips for Using Fire Pit in a Gazebo?

Many people love the idea of having a fire pit inside their gazebo. It can create a cozy atmosphere and provide warmth during chilly nights. However, safety is a top priority when it comes to having an open flame in an enclosed space. Below are 8 key safety tips and 4 ideas for some of these tips:

#1: Check local safety regulations

It’s essential to check local regulations regarding the use of fire pits in outdoor areas, especially for use in or near outdoor structures. Some areas prohibit the use of fire pits altogether, while others may have specific guidelines regarding the type of fire pit and its location. Generally, there will be some type of clearance restrictions like 10 – 25 feet away from existing structures, etc. The National Fire Protection Association recommends that the fire pit should not be located within 25 feet of a structure or building.

#2: Check the gazebo and fire pit manufacturer’s guidelines for fire pit use

After checking your local regulations for safe fire pit use, you should also check the gazebo and fire pit manufacturer’s guidelines for use. These guidelines may specify how a fire pit can be used in a gazebo. If the guidelines are not clear or not provided, you can always call or email the manufacturer for specific guidance.

#3: Allow for Ventilation

One of the most important things to keep in mind when using an outdoor fire pit in a gazebo is ventilation. Never use a fire pit in an enclosed area or screened gazebo without adequate ventilation, and generally, open-sided gazebos have sufficient ventilation. 

Smoke and emissions from the fire pit rise upwards and get trapped below the roof, which can be very toxic and may cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Make sure you have plenty of ventilation by having an open-air gazebo or having ventilation built into the roof of your gazebo.

✨ Idea: If you are building a gazebo, opt for a gazebo with a double roof to allow smoke, heat, and fumes to simply vent through the ceiling of the gazebo.

#4: Keep the fire pit away from walls, nearby structures, and other objects

Another important safety measure is to keep the fire pit away from the gazebo’s columns, walls, any other outdoor structure, trees, furniture, and other objects. The heat and open flames of the fire pit damage these areas and objects or start a fire outside of the fire pit. Always allow as much open space as possible between your fire pit and nearby objects.

#5:  Keep flammable materials away from the fire pit

This one should be a no-brainer but always keep any flammable materials and liquids away from a fire pit. Having these types of materials near a fire pit will lead to a very dangerous situation. You should keep these items at least 25 feet away from a fire pit. 

✨ Idea: Keep flammable materials and other fire pit items like firewood stored away in a lockable weatherproof box or boxes (refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines of the material for proper storage requirements). 

#6: Do not leave children unsupervised near a fire pit

Always have proper adult supervision for children near a lit fire pit. Plus, make sure there is enough space around the fire pit for children and adults to easily move around the fire pit to avoid any trips or other accidents.

#7: Keep a fire extinguisher and first aid kit nearby

In case there is an accident, It’s recommended to have a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit nearby to take care of the incident quickly

✨ Idea: See the fire extinguisher and first aid kits below for great safety items you can buy now

#8: Tie up and secure curtains and other loose objects that might blow with the wind

At some point, you might experience some windy conditions while you are using your fire pit in a gazebo. This can either cause objects to fly into the fire pit or cause flames and embers to fly across your gazebo. So, you should take extra effort to tie up gazebo curtains and other objects that can fly around with the wind so they don’t blow into the wind or be affected by flying embers.

✨ Idea: A good idea to protect your fire pit and other objects from being affected by high winds is to get a wind guard for your fire pit.

Overall, while using a fire pit in a gazebo is possible, it’s important to take all necessary safety precautions before doing so. By following these guidelines, you can safely enjoy the warmth and ambiance of a fire pit in your gazebo.

What Types of Fire Pits are Suitable for Gazebo Use?

Any kind of fire pit can be used in a gazebo as long as you follow the proper safety guidelines. That means you can use a propane, gas, or wood-burning fire pit – any fuel source will work in a gazebo. These fire pits can be permanent (built-in) or portable, a fire pit table or even a fire bowl.

Wood Burning Fire Pit

Wood-burning fire pits are a popular choice for outdoor spaces but require extra caution when used in a gazebo. The heat generated can be more intense (you can pile a lot of wood in the fire pit and make it pretty hot!), and embers can fly through the air, posing a risk to the gazebo. If you choose to use a wood-burning fire pit in your gazebo, it is essential to take extra precautions, such as keeping a fire extinguisher nearby, using a screen to contain embers, and ensuring proper ventilation.

When using a wood-burning fire pit, it is important to use dry, seasoned wood and to never leave the fire unattended.

👉 Tip: You will need a fire screen for a wood-burning fire pit to protect your gazebo and nearby items from flying embers. Also, you will need enough height between the top of the flames of your fire and your gazebo’s roof to make sure the heat, smoke, and other emissions adequately ventilate out of your gazebo (see the section on gazebo roof below). 

Propane and Natural Gas Fire Pit

Propane and natural gas fire pits are generally safer for use in a gazebo, and we recommend that you use a natural or propane gas fire pit in a gazebo if you have the choice. They are smokeless and produce a cleaner fire, making them an excellent alternative to wood-burning fire pits. These fire pits are easy to start and put out, and you can usually have more control over the size of the fire. Always ensure proper ventilation when using a propane or natural gas fire pit in your gazebo.

Bioethanol Fire Pit

Bioethanol is a renewable, clean-burning fuel made from plant materials such as corn, sugarcane, and potatoes. Bioethanol fire pits are becoming popular for those who want an eco-friendly, low-maintenance alternative to gas, propane, and wood-burning fire pits. Bioethanol fire pits are easy to use, require no venting, and produce no smoke or ash.

✨ Idea: Want to make a quick DIY fire pit table? There are many bioethanol tabletop fire pits that are a great way for you to quickly make nearly any table into a fire pit table.

Fire Pit Tables

Fire pit tables are a popular option for outdoor entertaining. They are a combination of a fire pit and a table, providing a functional and attractive centerpiece for your gazebo. Fire pit tables are available in a variety of styles, sizes, and materials, making it easy to find one that fits your needs and decor. When using a fire pit table in your gazebo, it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and ensure proper ventilation.

Can You Put a Fire Pit Under a Metal or Wooden Roof Gazebo?

Yes, it is possible to put a fire pit under a gazebo with wooden or metal roofs, but it is important to take necessary precautions to ensure safety. First and foremost, you should follow local regulations and manufacturer’s safety guidelines: if these prohibit use under a covered structure with a solid roof, then you should absolutely not use a fire pit under a gazebo. 

If you are permitted to use a fire pit in a gazebo, there are some important things to consider for a metal or wooden roof gazebo: the type of fire pit, the height of the roof, and ventilation. Read the FAQ below.

Will a Fire Pit Discolor a Gazebo's Roof?

This depends: a wood-burning fire pit will put off heavy heat, ash, embers, and smoke compared to a natural gas or propane fire pit. This can result in heavy damage or discoloration to the roof of the gazebo. 

On the other hand, a propane or natural gas fire pit will not have ash, embers, smoke, or heavy heat. This reduces the possibility of getting a discolored or damaged roof. 

👉 Tip: Like one of the first tips above, you can have a gazebo with a double roof which will allow the heat, smoke, and other particles from the fire pit to travel seamlessly through the roof. Or you can have a gazebo with a built-in vent hood for the fire pit; this will help funnel all the smoke and emissions out of the gazebo, minimizing the chance of discoloration or damage to the roof of your gazebo.

👉 Tip: Consider a smokeless fire pit like the one below to reduce the amount of smoke that is emitted from your fire, which could potentially limit the amount of discoloration on your gazebo’s roof.

✨ Idea: A heat deflector is another essential item to have when using a fire pit in a gazebo. It helps protect the gazebo from the fire pit’s heat by shifting the fire pit’s heat to the sides of the fire pit instead of straight up to the roof.

How High Should a Gazebo Roof be Over a Fire Pit?

Generally, the minimum recommended roof height above the top of the fire flames should be at least 8 feet. Anything lower can lead to heavy discoloring of the roof (especially for wood-burning fire pits) and damage to the roof. For a wood-burning fire pit, as much overhead clearance as you can get is always better. Essentially you need enough height above your fire pit to allow the heat and emissions to dissipate. Then with the open-air design of your gazebo, this heat and smoke can quickly move out of your gazebo.

Can You Put a Fire Pit Under a Fabric Canopy Gazebo?

When it comes to fabric canopy gazebos, there are some important considerations to keep in mind before setting up a fire pit underneath. 

First and foremost, it’s important to check the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific gazebo to see if it is designed to handle the heat and smoke generated by a fire pit. Some fabric canopies may not be able to withstand the heat and could become damaged or even catch fire. For this reason, we do not recommend using a wood-burning fire pit under a fabric canopy gazebo.

If your fabric canopy gazebo is designed to handle a fire pit, there are still some safety precautions you should take. It’s important to keep the fire pit at a safe distance from the canopy and any other flammable materials, such as curtains or decorations. The fire pit should be positioned in the center of the gazebo to ensure that heat and smoke can disperse evenly.

Overall, while it is possible to put a fire pit under a fabric canopy gazebo, it’s important to do so with caution and only if the gazebo is designed to handle the heat of a fire pit.

What Do You Put Under a Fire Pit in a Gazebo?

When using a fire pit in a gazebo, it is crucial to take precautions to protect the floor and surrounding area from damage. One of the most important things to consider is what to put underneath the fire pit. 

Now, if you have a permanent fire pit, this doesn’t apply because your fire pit is built into your outdoor space. This becomes a concern if you use a portable fire pit and your gazebo floor is grass, concrete, some type of paver, wood decking, or composite decking. 

✨ Idea: Put a fire pit mat or heat shield under a portable fire pit

A heat shield or heat mat is a perfect way to protect the grass, concrete, pavers, wood decking, or composite decking underneath your fire pit. These are specially designed to protect the surface underneath the fire pit from heat damage. They are made from materials that can withstand high temperatures and are available in a range of sizes to fit different fire pit models.

It is important to note that while a heat shield or a fire pit mat can help protect the surface underneath a fire pit, they do not provide complete protection. It is still important to exercise caution when using a fire pit in a gazebo and to follow all safety guidelines.

How Do You Clean a Fire Pit in a Gazebo?

Cleaning a fire pit in a gazebo is essential to maintain its functionality and safety. Here are some steps to clean a fire pit in a gazebo:

  • Wait for the fire pit to cool down completely before cleaning it.
  • Remove any debris or ash from the fire pit using a shovel or ash pan.
  • Scrub the inside of the fire pit with a wire brush to remove any remaining ash or debris.
  • Wash the fire pit with water and a mild soap solution. Rinse thoroughly and let it dry completely before using it again.

It is important to clean the fire pit regularly to prevent the buildup of ash and debris, which can cause the fire to spread or create a hazardous environment. Additionally, you should inspect the fire pit regularly for any signs of damage or wear and tear.

✨ Idea: One thing that may be helpful is having a long hose in your backyard so you can bring the hose to where your fire pit is to make cleaning easier.

Design Tips (4) for Gazebo Fire Pits

When designing a gazebo with a fire pit, there are a few things to consider.

#1: First, when designing a gazebo with a fire pit, choosing the right location is important. Consider the size and shape of your yard and the proximity to your home. You may want to place the gazebo in a spot that offers privacy and seclusion or in an area that provides a beautiful view of your surroundings.

#2: Next, ensure the gazebo is large enough to comfortably accommodate the fire pit and seating area. A fire pit with a diameter of 30-36 inches is a good size for a small to medium-sized gazebo. And you generally want at least two feet of space all around a chair or other seating area to have enough room to move around.

#3: Consider the style of the gazebo and choose a fire pit that complements it. For example, a rustic-style gazebo would look great with a stone fire pit, while a modern-style gazebo would look better with a sleek metal fire pit. 

#4: It’s also important to choose a fire pit that is safe for use in a gazebo. Look for fire pits that have a spark screen or lid to prevent embers from escaping, and plan for these items into the overall style of your gazebo.

Decorating Ideas (4) for Gazebo Fire Pits

Once you have your fire pit installed in your gazebo, it’s time to decorate! Here are some ideas to get you started:

#1: Hang string lights around the perimeter of the gazebo to create a cozy ambiance. 

#2: Add some comfortable seating around the fire pit. Some of our favorite chairs for around a fire pit are Adirondack chairs. 

#3: Place some potted plants around the gazebo to add some greenery and color.

#4: Hang some outdoor curtains around the gazebo for privacy and to block out the sun.

Fire Pit Alternative Ideas (3) for a Gazebo

Maybe a fire pit isn’t right for your gazebo. Luckily there are several options that you can include in your gazebo to provide warmth and ambiance:

#1 Outdoor Fireplace: An outdoor fireplace is a great alternative to a fire pit. It can provide warmth and ambiance to your outdoor living space while also adding a touch of elegance and sophistication. Outdoor fireplaces come in a variety of styles, from traditional to modern, and can be made from a range of materials, including stone, brick, and metal. They can be fueled by wood, gas, or electricity and can be designed to fit any size or style of outdoor space.

#2 Patio Heater: A patio heater is another alternative to a fire pit. It is a freestanding device that emits heat to warm up an outdoor area. Patio heaters come in a variety of styles, including electric, propane, and natural gas models. They are typically more compact than outdoor fireplaces, making them a great option for smaller outdoor spaces. They can also be moved around easily, making them a versatile choice for outdoor entertaining.

#3 Table Top Heaters: Table top heaters are a smaller, more portable alternative to fire pits. They are typically fueled by propane or electricity and can be placed on a tabletop to provide heat and ambiance. Table top heaters are a great choice for small outdoor spaces or for those who want to add a little warmth to their outdoor dining experience. They come in a variety of styles, from sleek and modern to more traditional designs.

Picture of Hi, I'm Ashley!

Hi, I'm Ashley!

I started Live Your Best Backyard to share my (and my family's) hands-on experience and countless hours of research on all things backyard to help you find the best products, ideas, tips, and information for your backyard!

Read More About Me
Picture of Hi, I'm Ashley!

Hi, I'm Ashley!

I started Live Your Best Backyard to share my (and my family's) hands-on experience and countless hours of research on all things backyard to help you find the best products, ideas, tips, and information for your backyard!

Read More About Me
Recent Posts

Thank You!

Thank you for signing up! I will send you an email shortly!

Let's Be Friends!

Sign up to get emails from me about…

Success message!
Warning message!
Error message!