The Short Answer
For permanent fire features, gas is generally easier to permit — no air quality curtailment restrictions, simpler masonry requirements in many jurisdictions, and no wood-burning setback concerns. However, gas lines require their own plumbing permit and licensed contractor work. Wood-burning features can face more scrutiny and more restriction, especially in western states, but remain popular for outdoor cooking and ambiance.
| Factor | Wood-Burning | Gas (Propane / Natural Gas) |
|---|---|---|
| Building permit (permanent) | Yes | Yes |
| Gas line permit | No | Yes — plumbing permit |
| Air quality curtailment risk | Yes — restricted on no-burn days | Not restricted |
| Fuel type ban (some jurisdictions) | Possible — check locally | Rarely restricted |
| HOA approval complexity | Often higher — smoke issues | Often simpler |
| Pizza oven suitability | Yes — authentic high heat | Yes — less authentic |
| Masonry requirements | Firebox, spark arrestor, chimney height | Simpler — no spark arrestor req. |
| Inspection stages | Footing, masonry, chimney, final | Gas pressure test + building final |
Wood-Burning Feature Permit Considerations
When permitting a wood-burning outdoor fireplace or fire pit, building departments review several fire-code-specific elements that don't apply to gas:
- Chimney height: Wood-burning chimneys must typically extend at least 2 feet above any combustible material within 10 feet, and at least 3 feet above the highest point of roof penetration. Exterior chimneys attached to homes have additional clearance requirements.
- Spark arrestor: Most jurisdictions require a UL-listed spark arrestor (mesh cap) on wood-burning chimneys. This is often a code requirement that plan reviewers specifically look for on submitted drawings.
- Firebox dimensions: Some jurisdictions have minimum firebox opening requirements or specify approved construction materials for the firebox lining (firebrick, refractory mortar).
- Air quality pre-clearance: In some western jurisdictions, a wood-burning fireplace permit requires pre-clearance from the regional air quality district before the building department will issue a permit.
Gas Fire Feature Permit Considerations
Gas fire features require building permits for permanent structures but have a different review focus:
- Gas line permits: All permanent natural gas line extensions require a plumbing permit, licensed contractor work in most states, and a pressure test inspection before burial. Propane systems with direct tank connections typically don't require a gas line permit, but any regulator or connection work should still be done by a qualified tech.
- BTU ratings: Some jurisdictions set BTU thresholds above which a feature requires additional review. Very high BTU outdoor appliances (above 200,000 BTU) may trigger commercial or mechanical code review.
- Auto-ignition systems: Permanent gas fire features with electronic ignition may require electrical permit for the wiring, in addition to the gas and building permits.
- Ventilation for enclosed spaces: Gas fire features in partially enclosed outdoor rooms (pergolas with solid roofs, covered patios) may require mechanical ventilation review.
Air Quality: The Decisive Factor in Some Regions
In California, Arizona, Colorado, Washington, and Oregon, air quality curtailment programs can render a wood-burning feature unusable on 20–50+ days per year in some areas. Gas fire features are universally exempt from these programs.
If you're in a high-curtailment region and want a fire feature you can reliably use on cold winter evenings, the practical choice is gas. A wood-burning feature with an authentic fire may sit unused half the winter. See our curtailment program guide for details by air district.