Sizing by household:
- 1–4 people: 32–36" grill, ~400–500 sq in primary cooking area
- 5–8 people: 36–42" grill, ~600–700 sq in primary cooking area
- 8+ / regular entertaining: 42–48"+ grill or pair a 36" grill with a dedicated smoker or pizza oven
Clearances (built-in):
- 10" from any combustible surface on each side and behind the grill (verify against your specific model — clearances vary)
- 24–36" of counter return on each side for prep and tools
- Overhead clearance of 12+ feet from a roof or pergola, or vented hood per local code
Clearances (freestanding):
- Keep at least 3 feet from any combustible structure
- Never operate under an overhang or covered porch unless the carrier specifically allows it
Fuel planning:
- Natural gas requires a permanent gas line — size for the BTU draw of your grill plus any side burners, smoker, or warming drawer on the same line
- Propane: a single 20 lb tank runs a 36" grill ~15–20 hours of cook time at medium-high