Create Your Own Backyard Fire Pit: Follow These 7 Simple DIY Steps

Thanks to our step-by-step instructions, the ideal backdrop for outdoor enjoyment is closer than you think.
Make your own fire pit to transform your garden into a cozy camping site. This easy DIY idea will have you creating s'mores by the fire in no time.

Get ready

Before you start construction, check your city's fire code to determine if fire pits are permitted and, if so, how far away the fire pit must be from a structure.

Then, gather your supplies:

• Bricks for the fire pit wall
• Gravel
• Twine or string
• Tape measure
• Stake
• Large shovel
• Trowel
• Tamp
• Level

Choose durable bricks for the fire pit wall, such as retaining wall bricks or concrete pavers. Some home improvement businesses even sell bricks made expressly for fire pits. As an added safety step, place a layer of firebricks with a higher heat resistance on the inner layer of the fire pit. You're ready to build now that you've gathered all of your materials and checked your local fire code!

1. Draw a circle

Choose a location for your fire pit (keeping it away from any structures, plants, or trees) and place a stake in the ground to mark the center of the pit.
Tie one end of the rope or twine to the stake and measure the diameter of your circle.

A fire pit typically has a diameter of 4-5 feet. Tie one end of the thread to the handle of a trowel. Drag the sharp end of the trowel around in a circle, forming a line in the grass, with the thread or twine tight.

2. Remove the grass

Dig out the grass inside the circle using a huge shovel.

A fire pit hole should be around 6-12 inches deep for safety reasons. Before you begin excavating, call 811 to confirm there are no utility lines buried beneath the chosen location.

3. Tamp the soil down

You can use the bottom of your shovel if you don't have a tamp.

4. Check that the circle is level.

Get your level down on the ground to confirm that the surface is suitable for the bricks. Continue to make little changes until it is fully level.

5. Fill up the gaps with gravel

Fill the fire pit with a thick layer of gravel (at least a couple of inches). Distribute the gravel evenly.

6. Lay down the bricks

After you've scattered the gravel, make a circle with your bricks and stack them in layers until the fire pit wall is at least 12 inches tall.
You may add an interior layer of firebricks for added security. Though you don't need to use mortar if the bricks are heavy enough to form a robust stack, you may add extra stability by using an outdoor fire-resistant mortar between the bricks.

7. Unwind and enjoy!

To make the most of your new fire pit, get a pair of Adirondack chairs, some firewood, and some campfire goodies.

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