Fireplace Installation Services in California
Licensed installation for wood, gas, electric, and prefabricated fireplaces — permitted and inspected.
CSIA Certified
Every technician
4.9 Stars
847+ reviews
Licensed & Insured
Fully Covered
15+ Years
In business
12,400 Jobs
Completed statewide
About Our Fireplace Installation Service
A fireplace installation is a major home project that involves structural, mechanical, and fire safety systems. California building code requires a permit for most new fireplaces — including gas line work, structural modifications, and chimney construction — and pulling that permit requires a licensed contractor. We handle the full scope: permit application, structural assessment, firebox installation, liner sizing, gas line connection where applicable, and final inspection sign-off.
The type of fireplace you choose affects cost, permit requirements, and how you use the space. Wood-burning fireplaces give the most authentic experience but carry the highest installation cost and the strictest local air quality requirements in California. Gas fireplaces are the most practical choice for most homes — direct-vent models run a coaxial pipe through an exterior wall, so no chimney is required. Electric fireplaces skip permitting in most cases and are the only option in apartments and condos where combustion appliances are not allowed. We walk through these trade-offs at the estimate appointment before any contract is signed.
Types of Fireplace Installation We Handle
Wood-Burning Fireplace
Masonry or factory-built wood fireplaces with a properly sized clay tile or stainless liner. Requires a building permit in all California jurisdictions.
Gas Fireplace
Direct-vent, natural-vent, and ventless gas fireplaces connected to existing gas service. Direct-vent is the most common California installation — no chimney required.
Electric Fireplace
No venting, no gas line, no permit in most cases. The only option for apartments and condos that prohibit combustion appliances.
Prefabricated (Factory-Built)
Listed factory-built firebox with a matching metal chimney system. Less expensive than masonry and still code-compliant — but requires a permit.
Modern Linear Fireplace
Long, low burner profile — typically gas or electric — set into a custom feature wall. Popular in contemporary California homes.
Custom Masonry Fireplace
Built on-site from brick, block, or stone. Fully unique to your home, longest timeline, and highest cost. The only type designed to last 100+ years.
Why Homeowners Choose Professional Installation
- California building permits require a licensed contractor — DIY installations cannot be permitted
- Improper venting creates carbon monoxide risk that a final inspection would catch
- Incorrect hearth clearances are a fire hazard and void homeowner's insurance
- Manufacturer warranties on gas and electric units require professional installation
- Unpermitted work must be disclosed at sale and can delay or kill a real estate transaction
- We attend the building department inspection — you receive the completed permit card
Safety and Inspection Requirements
Every gas fireplace installation includes a pressure test of the gas supply line before it is commissioned. Wood-burning installations include a video inspection of the completed liner to confirm it is properly seated and clear from top to bottom. We submit the permit documentation, schedule the building department inspection, and attend it on your behalf.
After the inspection passes, you receive the completed permit card for your property records. If the building department requires a follow-up visit, we return at no additional charge.
Our Installation Process
Site assessment and estimate
We measure the installation space, confirm clearances, and assess structural requirements. You receive a written flat-price quote before any work is agreed.
Permit application
We prepare and submit all required plans and documents to your local building department. Most California permits issue within one to three weeks.
Structural and framing work
We prepare the firebox opening, hearth extension, and mantel area to current California building code.
Fireplace and liner installation
Firebox installed, liner run and connected, gas lines or electrical completed as applicable to your fuel type.
Final inspection and handover
We schedule and attend the building department inspection, then hand you the completed permit card and our written installation report.
Fireplace Installation Available In
Serving all of California · View all service areas
Get a Fireplace Installation Quote
We respond within 2 business hours.
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When to call someone else
If you only need a plug-in electric fireplace set into an existing opening, any handyman can do it. Call us when the project involves a permit, structural work, a new gas line, or a masonry firebox.
Fireplace Installation FAQ
Ready to discuss your fireplace installation?
Same-week appointments available across California. CSIA-certified technicians.