How much does a fire pit cost in Portland?
| Fire pit type | Typical 2026 cost |
|---|---|
| Block or stone kit, installed on a gravel pad | $800 – $2,000 |
| Custom wood-burning pit (block, stone or concrete) | $1,500 – $5,000 |
| Gas fire pit with new gas line | $3,500 – $9,000+ |
| Fire pit with surrounding paver or concrete patio | $4,000 – $15,000+ |
| Built-in seat wall around the pit | $1,500 – $5,000 |
Portland-area ranges for 2026. Gas line length, permits and site access affect cost.
What are the fire pit rules in Portland?
- Distance: the Oregon Fire Code generally requires wood-burning recreational fires to be at least 25 feet from structures and combustibles, or 15 feet for approved portable fire pits.
- Burn bans: Portland Fire & Rescue can restrict outdoor fires during high fire danger and poor air quality, often in summer.
- What you can burn: clean, dry firewood only, not yard debris or trash.
- Supervision: a fire must be attended, with a hose or extinguisher nearby.
- Gas fire pits: they need a gas permit and licensed installation, but are often allowed closer to the house and during some restrictions.
Rules change and differ between Portland, Lake Oswego, Wilsonville and other cities, so we confirm what applies at your address before building.
Wood-burning vs. gas fire pit: which is better?
| Wood-burning | Gas | |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | Lower | Higher (gas line) |
| Ambiance | Real crackle and smoke | Clean flame, no smoke |
| Placement | Needs more clearance | More flexible |
| Upkeep | Ash cleanup, firewood | Very low |
| Burn bans | Often restricted | Sometimes allowed |
How is a built-in fire pit installed?
- Plan the location with safe clearance, wind direction and seating space.
- Prepare the base: excavate and compact gravel, or pour a concrete footing.
- Build the walls from block, stone or concrete with a steel or firebrick liner.
- Add drainage so rainwater doesn’t collect in the pit during Portland winters.
- Cap and finish with a stone or concrete cap and surrounding patio or gravel.
Most fire pits are built with a patio around them. See concrete patio cost and design, landscape design in Portland, or our main fire pit construction service.
Call (504) 446-4124 or request a quote. AG General Contractor (CCB #246953) builds fire pits in Portland, Lake Oswego, Wilsonville and nearby cities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to build a fire pit in Portland?
Most custom wood-burning fire pits cost $1,500 to $5,000 installed. Gas fire pits usually run $3,500 to $9,000 or more because they need a gas line and permit.
Are backyard fire pits allowed in Portland?
Recreational fires are generally allowed with safe clearance and clean firewood, but Portland Fire & Rescue can ban outdoor burning during high fire danger. Check current restrictions before lighting a fire.
How far should a fire pit be from my house?
For wood-burning fires, the Oregon Fire Code generally calls for at least 25 feet from structures, or 15 feet for approved portable fire pits. Gas fire pits follow the manufacturer’s clearances.
Can I use my fire pit during a burn ban?
Wood-burning fire pits are usually not allowed during a burn ban. Some bans allow gas fire pits; check the current Portland Fire & Rescue notice.
What is the best base for a fire pit?
A compacted gravel or concrete base with drainage. It keeps the pit level and stops water from pooling inside during the rainy season.
Main service: Fire pit installation in Portland, OR
Also serving: Wilsonville, Lake Oswego. Request a free estimate.
AG General Contractor LLC is a licensed Oregon contractor (CCB #246953) based in Portland, OR. We build and repair concrete driveways, patios, fire pits, retaining walls and fences for homeowners across the Portland metro area. About us · Get a free quote · (504) 446-4124