How to Build a Fire Pit in the Ground

If you’ve ever stood outside on a cool evening thinking, “Man, a fire pit would make this backyard perfect,” you’re not alone. I’ve built a few over the years—some too shallow, one too wide, and one that nearly filled with water because I didn’t think about drainage (rookie mistake). But after learning what works, what doesn’t, and what I’d absolutely do again, here’s the simple, realistic, first-person guide to building an in-ground fire pit that looks amazing and actually works.

The best part? You don’t need a contractor. You need a free afternoon, some elbow grease, and a plan that keeps you from making the same missteps I did.

Step 1: Pick the Right Spot

Before I ever put a shovel in the ground, I learned that the location makes or breaks the project. One time, I thought I found the perfect place—until I lit the first fire and realized the smoke funneled straight into the neighbor’s patio. Not ideal.

Here’s what I do now:

• Pick an area away from fences, branches, and anything that could catch fire.

• Walk around your yard at different times of day to see how wind flows.

• Make sure the ground is fairly level, or at least workable.

• Check fire codes and HOA rules—trust me, it’s better to know now.

Step 2: Gather What You Need

I like to keep things simple, but skipping materials will slow you down. Every time I’ve tried to “make do” without something—like gravel or a level—I ended up regretting it.

Here’s exactly what I use:

• Shovel

• Level (Read this article from “This Old House” to learn how to choose a level.

• Tape measure

• Tamper

• Gravel & sand

• Fire-rated bricks or stone blocks

• Optional but helpful: a steel fire ring

Step 3: Start Digging

Once I’m ready to go, I mark out a circle between 36 and 44 inches. That seems to be the sweet spot—not too big, not too cramped.

Dig down about 12–18 inches depending on how deep you want it. This is where the real workout is. Every time I think I’ve dug deep enough, I grab the tape measure and sigh. But staying consistent makes everything else easier.

When the depth feels right:

• Level the bottom

• Add 2–3 inches of gravel

• Tamp it down

• Double-check that it’s flat

This step prevents drainage issues—like the time mine turned into a temporary pond.

Step 4: Build the Firepit Walls

Now the fun part.

I lay the first row of fire bricks or stone blocks tightly against each other. This row is your foundation—if it’s off, every row above will be off too. I learned that one the hard way.

Then:

• Add a thin layer of sand to fill gaps

• Stack the next rows in a staggered pattern

• Install the steel ring if using one (Find a steel ring for your fire pit)

I like using a ring because it protects the stones from excessive heat over time, but you can absolutely build without one.

Step 5: Finish & Test It

After the walls look good, I backfill around the outside with soil, gravel, or more stones. It locks the structure in place and gives it a clean, finished look.

I also add pea gravel or decorative stone around the perimeter—it keeps the area tidy and reduces muddy shoes (something my family appreciates).

Before hosting friends, I always do a small test fire. It’s the best way to check airflow and make sure smoke isn’t blowing straight into anyone’s face. For more winter landscaping ideas, read our article, “Winter Backyard Ideas.” 

Your In-Ground Firepit Checklist

Here’s the exact checklist I follow each time I build one. I’ve learned that when I skip a step, I pay for it later—so this list keeps me on track.

Before You Start

⬜ Check local fire codes and HOA rules

⬜ Choose a safe, open location

⬜ Mark your pit diameter (36–44 inches)

⬜ Gather tools: shovel, level, tape measure, tamper

⬜ Gather materials: gravel, sand, fire bricks, steel ring

Digging & Prep

⬜ Dig 12–18 inches deep

⬜ Shape the walls evenly

⬜ Tamp the bottom

⬜ Add 2–3 inches of gravel

Building the Walls

⬜ Lay your first ring of bricks tightly

⬜ Check for level as you go

⬜ Add sand to stabilize

⬜ Stack additional rows in a stagger

⬜ Install steel ring if using

Finishing

⬜ Backfill outside the pit

⬜ Add gravel or stone around the perimeter

⬜ Test the airflow with a small fire

Safety

⬜ Keep water or an extinguisher nearby

⬜ Never leave a fire unattended

⬜ Remove cooled ashes regularly

Final Thoughts

When I built the in-ground fire pit, I was reminded how simple and satisfying it is to create something functional with my own hands. It turned a corner of the yard into a place where stories get told, marshmallows get roasted, and everyone slows down just a little.

And if you’re anything like me—someone who loves a weekend project and hates overcomplicated instructions—you’ll enjoy this one. Just take your time, follow the checklist, and don’t be afraid to get dirty.

Or, skip the manual labor and let us install your fire pit. Check out our landscaping service page.

M Valdivia

As a seasoned content manager with a background in education and human development, I bring a unique perspective to lawn care and landscaping topics. For the past four years, I've specialized in creating clear, helpful, and research-backed content for homeowners across North Texas and beyond. While I don’t have a landscaping degree, I collaborate closely with lawn care professionals to ensure every article is accurate, practical, and easy to follow.