Pergola with Fire Pit (Backyard Designs)

Pergolas and fire pits have been known to improve the overall look an ambiance of any patio or garden. The warm illumination and the comfortable heat, combined with the added protection and privacy given by the pergola, make it all the more inviting to use. However, if you want to add both features to your patio & garden, most especially if you plan to place a fire pit under a pergola structure, there are a few things you need to consider.

Types of Fire Pits to Use With a Pergola

There are many different types of fire pit designs available, and depending on the one you install, a certain minimum clearance between the fire pit surface and the slatted overhead structure must be observed to ensure safety. Gas fire pits utilize a burner over a medium such as lava rock, ceramic logs, or glass to create a beautiful backyard gathering place. A few of the primary benefits are they are easy to start, require no cleanup, provide no smokey smell, and are safe with a controlled flame.

The most popular types of fire pits to use with a pergola are:

Liquid propane – needs a clearance of 94″. Verify the minimum clearance indicated by the supplier.

Natural gas – needs a minimum clearance of 120″. Verify the minimum clearance indicated by the supplier.

Gas fire tables – These portable units vary in size and design. They typically run 23″, 29″ or 35″ in height.

This attached metal pergola uses a portable metal wood-burning fire pit, which can also be used for grilling. This is the best choice for cooking purposes as wood-burning grill gives more flavor depth to food cooked on it. Additional string garden lights and lamps were added to enhance the space’s ambiance further.

Is a Fire Pit Under a Pergola Safe?

The pergola material and the burner type are two very important considerations. If you are installing a fire pit on an existing structure, make sure that the burner you will purchase and install is safe for the clearance and material of your existing structure.

If you’re installing a pergola over an existing gas burner, check the manufacturing details on the recommended clearances to select the appropriate structure. If both are newly installed, then you would have a bit more flexibility on your choices.

Here are some additional precautions to ensure your fire pit pergola is safe to use:

• Before beginning any construction you’ll want to consult with your local town ordinances about outdoor fireplaces and hearths. Some jurisdictions prohibit any structure above an open flame.
• Make sure to follow your specific model pit’s rules & safety regulations.
• Make sure you have proper ventilation to avoid exposure to residual heat of excess gas. Propane gas is heavier than air and can become trapped and accumulate, creating an unsafe environment.
• Make sure the ceiling and sides of the pergola structure is far enough away to ensure heat can disperse. Excess heat buildup can cause burns and damage to occur.
• Make sure you install any flame source on a level surface.
• Wood-burning models can have flames that are difficult to control. They can also put off harmful smoke and excess heat. For these reasons, it is not recommended to use an open flame under any structure. In addition, smoke can cause discoloration and cracks on nearby structures.
• As a safety precaution, keep an extinguisher in reach.
• Avoid placing near any trees with overhanging limbs, falling branches, or leaves. Are there any other combustible materials surrounding the area? If so, make sure they are far enough away.
• Never leave it unattended, and do not allow children to play around the structure without adult supervision.

A fire pit under a pergola can make a great feature for your home’s backyard. By taking a little care to ensure it is installed and used properly, you can avoid potential safety hazards and enjoy it for years to come.

This stunning contemporary paver patio features a block ring situated above a circular pond that is under a large wooden pergola. This design combines flame and water to create an inviting focal point and outdoor living area.

If you’re concerned with safety and do not want any discoloration or burn marks on your patio structure, a brick paver fire pit placed outside the overhead solid wood pergola structure, so the fire would be less likely to burn. If you don’t have space for a built-in structure or if you prefer a more mobile fire pit, you can use a portable propane table. 

This butane gas fire pit has a more modern look to match the overall aesthetic of the patio space. The small linear flames definitely add a more romantic ambiance to this small outdoor lounge.