Coastal evenings in San Diego can turn cool even in summer, and an outdoor fireplace makes the patio usable well after sunset. A stone fireplace also gives the backyard a centerpiece that anchors seating, dining and landscaping.
Outdoor fireplaces are true construction projects, with footings, fireboxes, chimneys, gas lines and permits, so they need more planning than a fire pit.
An outdoor fireplace is a freestanding or wall-attached structure with a firebox and a chimney or flue. It is typically built on a concrete footing from block or a prefabricated firebox kit, then finished with natural or manufactured stone, a hearth and a cap.
Fireplaces can burn wood or gas. Gas fireplaces are increasingly common in Southern California because they start instantly and avoid smoke and embers; local rules may also affect wood-burning.
An outdoor fireplace extends how and when you use your yard.
Radiant heat makes patios comfortable on cool evenings.
A stone chimney gives the yard structure and a gathering place.
A tall fireplace can block views from neighboring properties.
Fireplaces and cooking areas work well together in one outdoor room.
Design choices include fuel type, structure and finish:
Typical placements include:
Freestanding fireplace at the end of a patio
Corner fireplace in a courtyard
Under a covered porch or patio cover (per manufacturer and code)
Fireplace combined with an outdoor kitchen
Fireplace with built-in wood storage niches
Fireplace with seat walls and flagstone patio
Fireplaces are heavy and involve fire, so structure and safety come first.
Location is chosen with clearances to structures, property lines and overhead trees; permits are obtained if required.
A reinforced concrete footing is poured, and gas lines or electrical are run by licensed trades.
The firebox and chimney are built from block or a listed kit, with firebrick lining where required.
Stone is applied, the hearth and mantel are set and a chimney cap is installed.
Outdoor fireplace budgets depend on size and features:
Size and height. Taller chimneys and wider fireboxes need more materials and labor.
Construction method. Custom masonry fireplaces typically cost more than kit-based builds.
Fuel type. Gas lines, burners and ignition systems add cost; wood fireplaces need proper draft design.
Stone and finishes. Natural stone, custom hearths and mantels raise costs.
Site work and permits. Footings, access, grading and permit fees vary by property.
Every project is quoted after a site visit or detailed photos. East West Stone does not set contractor pricing.
These are published national-average installed costs from independent cost guides, not prices set by East West Stone or any contractor. Use them to sanity-check quotes; your actual price depends on the factors above and on local labor rates in San Diego County.
| Work | Typical range | Unit | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outdoor fireplace, national averageTypical range $1,200 – $21,000. | $3,000 | per project | [1] |
| Prefabricated outdoor fireplace (assembled offsite)Average range for prefab units. | $1,200 – $8,335 | per project | [1] |
| Unfinished contractor fireplace kitVeneer materials not included. | $1,250 – $3,750 | per kit | [1] |
| Custom masonry outdoor fireplaceAverage range for custom builds. | $6,000 – $21,000 | per project | [1] |
What these ranges assume: basic mid-range work by experienced professionals in readily accessible conditions, with materials and delivery included. They exclude sales tax, permits and inspections, removal or repair of existing structures, and general contractor overhead, which the sources suggest adds 13% to 22% when a general contractor supervises. Gas lines, permits, footings and stone veneer on kit fireplaces can add to these figures.
Sources (checked October 2026):
Many cities require permits for outdoor fireplaces, especially with gas lines or chimneys near structures. Check with your city or county before construction.
Gas is cleaner, quicker and easier to control. Wood offers a crackling fire and real flame. Your local air-quality rules, neighbors and how you use the space will guide the choice.
Sometimes, but only with fireplace units and clearances approved for that use. Follow manufacturer instructions and local code.
A fireplace has a firebox and chimney that direct smoke upward; a fire pit is open. Fireplaces cost more but provide focused heat and a vertical focal point.
Example photos illustrate the type of work; they are not presented as East West Stone projects. Browse the full project gallery.
Dreaming of a backyard fireplace? Request a free outdoor fireplace estimate. Request a Free Estimate
