Custom Fire Pits & Outdoor Fireplaces Built for Colorado Mountain Living

Nothing pulls a backyard together like a fire feature. Colorado Nature Design designs and builds custom stone fire pits and outdoor fireplaces that feel natural on foothills and mountain properties, whether you want a rustic boulder gathering spot, a clean flagstone patio with a gas fire pit, or a statement fireplace as the focal point of your outdoor living space.

We have created many different fire pits in the Colorado mountain communities of Genesee, Conifer, Keystone, and Denver foothill areas such as Englewood, Lakewood and Golden. We understand what matters here: stable bases, proper drainage, durable stonework, and designs that fit the terrain. Let us work with you to discover a design that compliments your property! Click on the image below to see examples of our firepit projects, and call us today to build yours!

Popular Fire Feature Options

• Natural stone fire pits with seating boulders or low seating walls
• Gas fire pits (propane or natural gas) for easy on/off convenience
• Wood-burning fire pits for the classic campfire feel
• Outdoor fireplaces with stone surrounds and integrated patio spaces
• Full outdoor living zones with flagstone patios, steps, and retaining walls

Why Homeowners Choose a Custom Fire Pit

• Creates a natural “gathering point” for family and friends
• Extends patio season into cool Colorado evenings
• Complements boulder landscapes and mountain architecture
• Adds value and usability to sloped or underused yard space

View Our Outdoor Fire Pit and Fireplace Project Gallery

Fire Pit FAQ’s

Q: Gas vs. Wood Fire Pits: Which Is Better for My Property?
A: Both gas and wood fire pits are popular in Colorado, but the best choice depends on how you plan to use the space.

Gas fire pits are ideal if you want:

• Instant on/off convenience
• Less smoke and no flying embers
• Easier compliance during partial fire restrictions
• A cleaner, low-maintenance experience

Wood-burning fire pits are great if you want:

• The classic campfire ambiance
• Crackling sound and real flame smell
• No reliance on gas lines or propane tanks

For many foothills homeowners, gas fire pits are the safer and more flexible option, especially in areas with seasonal fire bans.

Q: Do I Need a Permit to Build a Fire Pit in Evergreen or Jefferson County?
A: Often, yes, especially for permanent or gas-connected fire features.

Permits may be required for:

• Natural gas line connections
• Built-in outdoor fireplaces
• Fire pits attached to patios or structures

Wood-burning fire pits may be restricted or prohibited during certain times of year. A professional design-build contractor will help navigate:

• County regulations
• Fire codes
• HOA rules (if applicable)

Q: How Far Should a Fire Pit Be From My House, Trees, or Deck?
A: Clearance requirements vary, but general best practices include:

• 10-20 feet from structures (more for wood-burning)
• Adequate distance from trees, fencing, and overhangs
• Non-combustible surfaces underneath and around the pit

In mountain terrain, wind direction and slope also matter. Proper placement reduces smoke issues and improves safety.

Q: Can You Build Seating Walls or Boulder Seating Around a Fire Pit?
A: Yes, and it’s one of the most popular upgrades.

Options include:

• Natural boulder seating
• Curved stone seating walls
• Integrated retaining walls on sloped yards
• Combination seating + landscape terracing

These features create a natural gathering space and help the fire pit feel like a permanent part of the landscape rather than an add-on.

Q: What Materials Hold Up Best in Colorado’s Freeze-Thaw Climate?
A: Colorado’s climate demands durable, properly installed materials.

Best-performing materials include:

• Natural stone (granite, basalt, sandstone)
• Flagstone with proper base and drainage
• Heat-rated masonry and fire-rated liners
• Steel or stainless steel fire pit inserts

Equally important is proper footing, drainage, and base preparation to prevent shifting and cracking over time.

Q: Will Wind or Smoke Be a Problem at Higher Elevations?
A: It can be if the fire pit isn’t designed correctly.

Design considerations include:

• Fire pit height and bowl depth
• Wind exposure and prevailing wind direction
• Use of gas burners for consistent flame
• Strategic placement relative to seating

Experienced designers account for mountain wind patterns to reduce smoke blowback and uneven flame behavior.

Q: Can You Match My Existing Patio, Stonework, or Retaining Walls?
A: Yes. Custom fire pits are typically designed to blend seamlessly with existing:

• Flagstone patios
• Boulder retaining walls
• Steps and walkways
• Home architecture and exterior finishes

Matching stone types, colors, and textures helps the fire feature look intentional, not like an afterthought.

Q: How Much Maintenance Does a Fire Pit Require?
A: Maintenance depends on the type:

Gas fire pits

• Annual inspection of burner and ignition
• Occasional cleaning of media (lava rock or glass)
• Very low ongoing upkeep

Wood fire pits

• Ash removal after use
• Periodic cleaning of soot buildup
• Monitoring for cracked stone or mortar

Proper construction dramatically reduces long-term maintenance needs.

Q: Can Fire Pits Be Used During Fire Restrictions?
A: It depends on the restriction level and the fire pit type.

• Gas fire pits are often allowed during partial bans
• Wood-burning fire pits are commonly restricted or prohibited
• Total bans may prohibit all open flames
• Always check current local regulations. A gas fire pit gives you the best chance of legal use throughout the season.

Q: What’s the Typical Timeline for Building a Custom Fire Pit?
A: Most custom fire pit projects follow this timeline:

• On-site consultation and design
• Material selection
• Site prep and base construction
• Stonework and installation
• Final inspection and walkthrough
• Depending on scope and weather, installation typically takes several days to a couple of weeks.