Build Your Own Fire Pit for the Backyard or Patio

A DIY fire pit can be the perfect gathering spot for friends and family, whether you’re winding down after a long day or roasting marshmallows and making s’mores with the kids. You can even use it for rustic outdoor cooking if you’re feeling adventurous.

There are lots of benefits to having a fire pit — and in this guide, we’ll show you exactly what to consider when building your own.

Fire Pit on the Patio or in the Yard – Which Is Better?

First, decide where you want your fire pit. Some prefer to have it right on the patio, while others choose to build it somewhere out in the yard — maybe in a cozy corner or right in the middle of the lawn.

Both options have their pros and cons, and the best choice depends on how you plan to use your fire pit.

Fire Pit on the Patio:

• You already have a solid, flat surface for safe installation.
• It’s where you probably spend most of your summer evenings.
• Your outdoor furniture is already set up there.
• The downside? It takes up patio space — which could be a problem if you’re tight on room.

Fire Pit in the Yard:

• You have more flexibility with placement.
• You can design your landscaping around it.
• It frees up space on your patio.
• It takes a bit more work to create a level and fire-safe area.

Which option is best for you depends on your space and how you plan to use the fire pit. Below, we’ll break down how to build both types and what you should keep in mind.

How to Build a Fire Pit in the Yard

Building a fire pit in the yard starts with choosing the perfect spot — somewhere cozy, out of the way of everyday activities (like kids playing), and most importantly, safe.

Take a walk around your yard and look for a place that feels right — that’s likely where your fire pit belongs.

Important: Never build a fire pit too close to trees, large bushes, fences, or anything else flammable.

Safety should be your top priority. That means building a fire-safe zone using non-flammable materials like concrete, pavers, or gravel. Make sure this zone extends beyond the fire itself.

Good surface materials to consider:

• Concrete
• Patio pavers
• Gravel or stone

These materials allow you to create different looks depending on your style. Just keep in mind that loose materials like gravel and sand can be tricky if you plan to place chairs or furniture nearby — they tend to sink into soft surfaces over time.

Choosing the Fire Pit Design

You have three main options when it comes to the fire pit itself:

• A freestanding metal fire bowl
• A fire pit built above ground using bricks, pavers, or concrete
• A fire pit dug into the ground

Raised fire pits tend to be safer since it’s less likely that debris or people accidentally fall into them. If you’re using patio pavers in the area, it’s also easy to leave a section open and build a sunken fire pit — just make sure the surrounding edges are reinforced so they don’t collapse into the pit over time.

How to Build a Fire Pit on the Patio

A fire pit on the patio is the ultimate setup for those warm summer nights. And that’s why more and more people are adding one to their outdoor spaces.

Just like in the yard, the first step is finding the right location. If you’re building a new patio, it’s easy to incorporate the fire pit into your design. But even on an existing patio, you can still add one — it just takes a bit more planning.

A quick solution is to place a pre-made fire bowl or fire table on the patio. It’s fast and simple, but it may not offer the custom look or permanence you’re after.

Want to build your own?

One of the easiest and safest ways to build a DIY fire pit on a patio is by laying bricks or pavers directly on top of the existing surface. This gives a clean, custom look and creates a solid structure that’s safer for families with kids.

Building on a wooden deck? You’ll need to be extra careful. It’s important to install a protective barrier around the fire pit to keep heat from damaging the wood or sparking a fire. Consider using a fire-rated concrete ring or surrounding the pit with layers of tile or stone to insulate it properly.

Fire Pit Safety – Tips & Advice

Having a fire pit in your yard or on your patio is a great addition — but it also comes with responsibility. Open flames always carry risk, so it’s important to use common sense and follow basic safety guidelines.

Here are some of our top tips:

• Keep the area around the fire pit clear — both at ground level and overhead.
• Avoid drinking heavily while tending a fire.
• Teach kids that the fire pit is not a toy and that they must keep a safe distance.
• Never leave the fire unattended — especially when children are around.
• No running or horseplay near the fire pit.
• Keep an eye on pets to make sure they stay safe around the flames.

These rules are especially important if you have small kids or curious pets who may not understand the danger of fire. A little extra caution goes a long way.