Yes. There is a growing range of urban outdoor furniture designed to perform safely near grills, smokers, fire pits, and other heat sources. The key is to specify materials and construction methods that resist ignition, limit flame spread, and tolerate radiant heat without deforming or releasing toxic smoke.
Materials to prioritize
- Powder-coated steel and stainless steel: Excellent for frames and tables near grills. Stainless steel offers superior corrosion resistance and heat tolerance. Powder coating adds durability but should be rated for elevated temperatures.
- Aluminum: Lightweight, rust-resistant, and non-combustible. It softens at very high temperatures, so keep direct contact with flames unlikely.
- Concrete and stone: Non-combustible and ideal for tabletops, benches, and planters. They handle radiant heat well and add permanent, urban-ready mass.
- Fire-rated composites: Some high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and fiberglass-reinforced composites are treated with fire retardants. Look for ASTM E84 Class A or equivalent flame-spread ratings.
- Ceramic and terracotta: Non-combustible and suitable for decorative elements, but avoid porous glazes that can crack under thermal shock.
- Fire-rated fabrics: For cushions and upholstery, choose solution-dyed acrylic or modacrylic fabrics treated to NFPA 701 or similar standards. Avoid polyurethane foam; specify fire-retardant foam or no foam at all.
Design features that improve safety
- Open, slatted, or perforated surfaces allow heat to dissipate and prevent trapped embers.
- Raised bases or legs keep seating and tables away from hot surfaces and grease drips.
- Modular layouts let you create a clear “grill zone” with non-combustible barriers.
- Built-in metal or concrete screens can shield nearby seating from direct radiant heat.
- No hollow cavities where embers can lodge and smolder.
What to avoid near grills
- Untreated wood, wicker, rattan, and bamboo.
- Standard polyurethane foam cushions.
- Plastic resin furniture without fire-retardant additives.
- Low-melting-point plastics such as PVC or polystyrene.
- Fabric canopies or umbrellas directly over grills unless they are fire-rated and placed at a safe height.
Standards and specifications to reference
- ASTM E84 for surface burning characteristics.
- NFPA 701 for flame propagation of textiles.
- California TB 117-2013 for upholstered furniture flammability.
- Local fire codes may require specific clearances from grills. A common rule is 3 to 10 feet (0.9 to 3 meters) depending on grill type and fuel.
Practical recommendations for urban spaces
For parks, rooftop terraces, and community grill areas, specify stainless steel or powder-coated steel frames with concrete or fire-rated composite tops. Use metal benches without cushions, or choose fire-rated cushions that can be removed when not in use. Add non-combustible bollards or planter walls to define the grill zone. Provide ash-safe metal bins and never place furniture directly against a hot grill.
Always confirm the manufacturer’s fire ratings and test data. “Fire-resistant” is not the same as “fireproof.” No outdoor furniture is completely immune to prolonged direct flame, but the right materials and design can significantly reduce risk and meet code requirements near grills.