You want a fire pit on your deck because it makes the space feel lived in. You can sit outside longer, host friends, and use the deck on cooler nights.
Then the questions start. Will heat damage the wood.
What setup is safer? What design actually fits your deck without making it feel cramped?
In Marietta, you also have to think about wind, covered decks, and HOA rules.
This guide keeps it simple. You will get 15 wooden deck fire pit ideas you can copy, plus clear guidance on safer fire pit types and deck protection. You will finish with a plan you can act on, not guesswork.
At a glance
Fire pits on wood decks can be safe if you select the right type (propane, electric, gel, or wood) and take the necessary precautions.
Prioritize safety by ensuring proper deck protection, clear space, and fire feature control.
Choose a fire pit style that suits your deck’s layout and your hosting style, from propane tables to rustic wood-burning bowls.
Consider Marietta’s local permit, HOA rules, and burn conditions before proceeding with installation.
Higginbotham Designs offers expert guidance to help you create a deck that fits your needs while keeping safety in mind.
Can a Fire Pit be Put on a Wooden Deck?
Yes, a fire pit can be used on a wood deck, but it's important to choose the right setup.
Consider these options:
Propane or gas: Steady flames, less ash and smoke, reduced ember risk.
Electric: Flame look without an open fire; ideal for covered decks but needs outdoor outlet access.
Gel fuel: Clean-burning, modern glow, best for light use.
Wood-burning: Higher ember risk and heat exposure; needs stricter protection.
Before choosing, check:
Roof, pergola, or canopy overhead?
Clear space from railings and furniture?
Wind direction and safety with pets/kids?
Outdoor outlet availability for electric models?
Safe fuel storage?
Next, pick a fire pit style suited to your deck's layout and your needs.
Pick a Fire Pit Style That Matches Your Deck and How You Use It
Choose a fire pit style based on your deck's use and aesthetic. Some styles are better for casual use, while others are designed for longer gatherings with steady heat and seating.
Here are the common styles you will see in fire pit deck designs.
Style | Best for | Look | Setup complexity |
Fire table | Dining and lounge zones | Clean and furniture-like | Low |
Fire bowl | A focal point feels | Rustic or modern | Low to medium |
Linear burner | Modern layouts | Sharp, minimal lines | Medium |
Built-in surround | Permanent feature | Premium and structured | High |
For easier control, opt for propane, gas, electric, or gel. For wood fires, plan for stronger protection and cleanup. Choose a style that fits your space and needs.
Now that you know the main styles, you can choose a deck idea that fits your space and your comfort level.
15 Wooden Deck Fire Pit Ideas You Can Copy
Choose a fire pit idea and design your deck layout around it. Each idea includes a safety detail to ensure heat control, clear space, and surface protection.
Idea 1: Propane fire table for clean, ash-free heat
Best fire pit type: Propane or gas fire table.
Deck layout: Place in a lounge area with inward-facing seating, away from high-traffic paths.
Look and materials: A rectangular table fits straight deck lines. Match the finish to railing hardware or furniture frames. Pair warm wood with one stone or metal accent.
Comfort add-ons: Two to four lounge chairs, one small table, and low perimeter lighting.
Safety detail: Use a heat-resistant pad and keep the flame area clear of railings, cushions, and overhangs.
Idea 2: Electric fire pit corner lounge
Best fire pit type: A plug-in electric fire pit or an electric fireplace console.
Deck layout: Use a corner for a calm end zone without blocking traffic.
Look and materials: Choose a clean, simple unit that reads like outdoor furniture. Keep the palette tight: one wood tone, one neutral cushion colour, and one metal accent.
Comfort add-ons: Add a privacy screen or planter wall, plan outlet access early.
Safety detail: Use an outdoor-rated outlet, keep cords covered, and keep away from wet zones.
Idea 3: Gel fuel fire pit for a modern glow
Best fire pit type: Gel fuel fire pit.
Deck layout: Place it where you want a small focal point, usually near a pair of lounge chairs. Keep it away from the main path and stair landings.
Look and materials: Sleek bowl or rectangular unit with simple seating and matte black metal or light stone accents.
Comfort add-ons: Compact side table, low privacy screen, and soft lighting along the deck edge.
Safety detail: Store fuel canisters safely, place on a heat-resistant base, and keep combustibles clear.
Idea 4: Rustic cast iron bowl with spark guard
Best fire pit type: A wood-burning cast-iron bowl with a spark screen.
Deck layout: Set it back from railings and furniture, so you have open space around the bowl. This idea works best on larger decks or lower deck levels.
Look and materials: Vintage cast iron paired with wooden seating, simple cushions, and stone planters.
Comfort add-ons: Arrange chairs in a circle with a clear path, adding step and edge lighting.
Safety detail: Use a spark guard and fire-resistant mat, with a safe ash and ember cleanup plan.
Idea 5: Concrete paver base “island” inside a wood deck
Best fire pit type: Works with propane, gel, and some wood-burning setups.
Deck layout: Create a defined “fire zone” by setting a square or rectangle of concrete pavers into the deck surface. Keep the walking lanes around it clear.
Look and materials: Contrast warm wood with clean pavers and add a simple border for a built-in feel.
Comfort add-ons: Surround with a bench and movable chairs, plus a low planter set back from the heat.
Safety detail: Use a noncombustible paver platform to shield wood from heat and embers. Keep spacing clear and avoid low covers.
Idea 6: Oversized fire pit mat with a compact pit for small decks
Best fire pit type: Propane, electric, gel, or a small wood-burning unit with strict safety measures.
Deck layout: Place the fire feature in a corner-adjacent spot to keep a clear walking lane from the door to the stairs. Choose a compact unit that does not crowd seating.
Look and materials: Use a neutral, oversized mat that visually “grounds” the setup. Pair it with slim chairs and a storage bench to keep the deck open.
Comfort add-ons: Add a small side table and soft lighting, with movable furniture.
Safety detail: Use a fire-resistant mat covering the unit's footprint and keep clear of heat sources.
Idea 7: Central fire pit with built-in seating
Best fire pit type: Gas or electric for steadier control.
Deck layout: Center placement works only if you have enough width to keep walking routes around the seating. Use a conversation ring that feels balanced on all sides.
Look and materials: Use matching bench seating with consistent wood tone and metal accents.
Comfort add-ons: Add back cushions, small tables, and low lighting for safety.
Safety detail: Ensure clear spacing between fire feature and seating; use a protected base and avoid low roofs.
Idea 8: Stone or concrete built-in fire feature at the deck edge
Best fire pit type: A Built-in gas fire feature in a stone or concrete surround.
Deck layout: Place it at the deck edge so the hard surface becomes the “fire zone” while the wood deck remains the “seating and traffic zone.”
Look and materials: Stone or concrete surround adds a premium look; match tones with deck stain and patio materials.
Comfort add-ons: Add a seat wall or built-in bench, with subtle lighting for nighttime visibility.
Safety detail: Ensure the fire feature is contained in a noncombustible surround, plan gas line work properly, and check local requirements.
Idea 9: Zoned deck with a dedicated paver fire section
Best fire pit type: Works well for wood-burning with a cover, or for gas for cleaner use.
Deck layout: Divide the deck into two zones: a paver section for the fire and a wood section for seating.
Look and materials: Use pavers that contrast the wood tone but still match your home exterior. A simple border detail helps the zones look built-in rather than patched.
Comfort add-ons: Place seating on the wood side facing the paver zone, with low lighting along the edge for safety.
Safety detail: Paver zone reduces heat exposure and ember risk, keep the fire feature away from railings and covers.
Idea 10: Portable pit on modular deck tiles for tight spaces
Best fire pit type: Propane or gel fuel is usually the cleanest match.
Deck layout: Use modular tiles under the fire pit for adjustable seating, keeping space for kids, pets, or dining.
Look and materials: Choose tiles with a clean, consistent finish; keep the pit compact and furniture light.
Comfort add-ons: Add a small loveseat, chairs, and a slim storage bench. Use a privacy panel if needed.
Safety detail: Ensure tiles are stable, maintain clear space around railings, and avoid running cords through walking paths.
Idea 11: Two-level deck with the fire feature on the lower level
Best fire pit type: Gas, electric, or a protected wood setup, depending on space.
Deck layout: Place the fire feature on the lower level to separate it from doors and high-traffic areas, with better overhead clearance.
Look and materials: Use the same wood tone on both levels, then use one contrasting material in the fire zone, such as pavers or a fire mat base.
Comfort add-ons: Create a lounge area with space behind chairs, and add step and edge lighting for safety at night.
Safety detail: Level change separates heat and traffic; ensure a protected base and clear space around the fire feature. Keep steps clear.
Idea 12: Backyard floating deck with a fire pit pad zone
Best fire pit type: Gas or electric for easier control, or gel for light ambience.
Deck layout: Build a detached deck in a flatter yard area, with the fire feature on a protected pad.
Look and materials: Use warm wood for the deck and a heat-safe base for the fire zone, with simple edging.
Comfort add-ons: Add a privacy screen or plants behind seating and low perimeter lighting for safety.
Safety detail: Keep the fire feature away from overhanging branches and maintain clear space around seating.
Idea 13: Deck-to-patio combo with the fire pit off the wood
Best fire pit type: Any type works well here, including wood-burning.
Deck layout: Place the fire pit on a stone or paver patio, using the deck for dining and lounging.
Look and materials: Match patio tones to the deck stain for a clean transition; add a simple step or landing.
Comfort add-ons: Keep the fire seating on the patio with a clear path back to the deck. Add subtle path lighting for night use.
Safety detail: Moving the fire feature off the wood deck reduces heat, ember exposure, and cleanup.
Idea 14: Linear fire feature with a privacy screen wall
Best fire pit type: Gas or electric linear feature.
Deck layout: Place the fire feature along one side, with a screen wall to control wind and sightlines. Keep seating facing the feature, clear of routes.
Look and materials: A linear fire pit suits modern decks. Match the screen wall finish to your railing or trim.
Comfort add-ons: Add built-in seating or lounge chairs, with low lighting for visibility near steps.
Safety detail: Keep the fire feature contained and away from cushions, railings, and low roofs.
Idea 15: Dining-and-fire split deck
Best fire pit type: Gas or electric for cleaner use near food areas.
Deck layout: Divide the deck into dining and fire zones, with the fire pit downwind of the table and away from the grill.
Look and materials: Use consistent finishes and add a simple border or bench to separate zones.
Comfort add-ons: Position the dining table near the house and fire seating farther out, with lighting in both zones.
Safety detail: Separation reduces traffic conflicts and keeps heat away from dining areas. Ensure clear walking routes.
Fire Pit Decking Ideas That Protect the Wood Surface
Concrete paver base: Creates a noncombustible platform under the fire pit, ideal for portable setups and leveling on older decks.
Fire pit mats or heat shields: Simple, fire-resistant options that cover the fire pit footprint, ensuring heat and sparks are contained.
Spark control and cleanup: Use spark screens for ember control and a routine for ash removal to protect the deck surface.
Quick checklist: Confirm manufacturer’s deck guidance, use a heat-safe base, keep the area clear of clutter, and plan safe fuel/tool storage.
For a safer setup, Higginbotham Designs can help with paver pads and deck-to-patio transitions.
Marietta Checks Before You Build: Permits, HOA, and Burn Rules
1. Permits in Marietta: The City states permits are required for constructing, altering, or repairing structures, and for installing or modifying electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing systems.
2. Outdoor burning rules:
Marietta says residential open burning may be permitted October 1 through April 30, and you must request a permit for each day you plan to burn. The Fire Marshal can deny permission when conditions are too windy or too dry.
The City enforces a summer burn ban from May 1 through September 30.
You can request a burn permit here.
3. HOA approvals:
In many Marietta communities, exterior changes require an architectural review, especially if they affect sightlines or produce smoke. Be mindful of wind conditions and keep the fire under control to ensure it fits your lot and neighbors' needs.
If you want a plan that fits local constraints, Higginbotham Designs can help you design the layout and build the hardscape pieces that support it.
Higginbotham Designs: Deck Fire Pit Setups That Feel Finished, Not Risky
A deck fire pit works best when layout, heat protection, and traffic flow are planned together. Without this, you risk a cramped, unsafe, or stressful setup.
In Marietta, wind, covered decks, and HOA rules impact what's realistic.
Higginbotham Designs can help you create a functional, safe fire pit setup with:
Outdoor living spaces that define seating, lighting, and movement
Hardscape installation and custom patios for paver fire zones and deck-to-patio transitions
Retaining walls when grade changes affect how your deck connects to the yard
Landscape design to add privacy and soften the space around the deck
Service area: Marietta, East Cobb, West Cobb, Kennesaw, Smyrna, Roswell, Acworth.
Next step
Choose one of the 15 ideas based on how you use your deck, not just aesthetics. Select a fire type, plan protection, space, and seating.
Confirm Marietta and HOA requirements for built-ins or gas lines. Higginbotham Designs can help design and build your outdoor layout.
FAQs
1. Is a fire pit safe on a composite deck too?
Composite can handle weather well, but heat can still damage boards. You still need a heat-safe base and correct clearances.
2. What should you do if your deck is covered or screened-in?
Do not assume it is safe. Overhead clearance and ventilation matter. Electric options are often the simplest starting point.
3. How do you protect deck railings and posts from heat?
Keep the fire feature away from railings and avoid placing seating that pushes people toward the edge. Use a layout that preserves clear space.
4. Will a fire pit stain or fade deck boards over time?
It can. Heat and soot can discolor finishes, especially if the unit sits in the same spot for long periods.
5. What is the cleanest setup if you want almost no cleanup?
Electric is usually the lowest cleanup. Propane is also clean, but you still need basic surface protection.