How much does a fire pit cost?

DIY block/stone: $200-$500 (materials). Steel ring (buy and place): $50-$200. Professional stone fire pit: $500-$2,000. Custom with seating wall: $2,000-$6,000. Gas fire pit (with gas line): $2,000-$5,000. Fire pit table (gas, purchase): $1,000-$5,000. The best value: a DIY block fire pit. $200-$500 in materials, 2-4 hours of work, and you have a beautiful gathering spot that lasts for years.

Can I build a fire pit myself?

Yes. A stone or block fire pit is one of the easiest outdoor DIY projects. No special skills or tools needed. Materials: concrete blocks (fire-rated) or natural stone. Gravel for the base. Construction adhesive. Optional steel fire ring insert. Tools: shovel, level, tape measure. Time: 2-4 hours. Steps: dig a shallow hole, add gravel base, stack blocks in a circle (3-4 courses high), apply adhesive between courses. That is it. The result: a sturdy, attractive fire pit that costs $200-$500 in materials (vs $1,000-$3,000 professional). Tips: use fire-rated blocks (regular pavers can crack from heat). Make it 36-44 inches in diameter (big enough for a good fire, small enough to feel cozy). Level the first course carefully (everything else follows from it).

What are the rules for backyard fire pits?

Rules vary by location but common requirements: distance from structures: 10-25 feet minimum (from house, fence, garage, shed). Height: flame height restrictions (usually 3 feet max). Fuel: some areas restrict wood burning (burn bans, air quality days). Permits: some jurisdictions require a permit. Size: maximum diameter restrictions in some areas. Screen: a spark screen may be required for wood-burning pits. Attended: fire must be attended at all times. Extinguishing: must have a way to extinguish (water, sand, or fire extinguisher nearby). HOA: your HOA may have additional restrictions. How to find out: check with your local fire department or building department. They can tell you the exact rules for your area. Violating fire pit rules can result in fines of $100-$500+.

Gas vs wood fire pit: which is better?

Wood burning: best for the authentic campfire experience. Pros: crackling sounds, wood smoke aroma, lower upfront cost, no utility connections needed. Cons: smoke (can bother you and neighbors), sparks and embers, ash cleanup, restricted during burn bans, takes time to start and extinguish. Gas (natural gas or propane): best for convenience and clean use. Pros: instant on/off, no smoke or sparks, no ash, adjustable flame height, can use during most burn bans, low maintenance. Cons: higher upfront cost, less authentic feel, requires gas line or propane tank, no crackling sound (some units add lava rocks for visual effect). Our take: if you want the campfire experience and do not mind the maintenance, go with wood. If you want a clean, convenient fire feature you can use any time, go with gas.

Article

Outdoor Living

Fire Pit Guide: Types, Cost & How to Build One

Lumberama Editorial Team, Outdoor Living & Fire Feature Specialists Oct 25, 2026 10 min read

Types of Fire Pits

Wood-burning: The classic campfire experience. Crackling sounds, wood smoke aroma. Types: in-ground (dug into the ground): simplest, most rustic. Above-ground ring (steel or stone): most popular. Chiminea (enclosed with chimney): directs smoke upward. Cost: $100-$3,000 (depending on material and size). Fuel: firewood ($200-$400/cord). Pros: authentic fire experience, no fuel lines needed, affordable. Cons: smoke (can bother neighbors), sparks, ash cleanup, fire bans may restrict use.

Gas (natural gas or propane): Clean, convenient, instant on/off. No smoke, no sparks, no ash. Types: fire pit table: combination fire feature and table surface. Fire bowl: open bowl with gas burner. Linear fire feature: modern, elongated design. Cost: $500-$5,000+. Fuel: natural gas (connected to house line) or propane tank. Pros: no smoke, instant on/off, adjustable flame, no ash. Cons: less authentic feel, requires gas line or propane, more expensive.

Gel/ethanol: Tabletop or small portable units. No venting required. Cost: $50-$500. Best for: small spaces, tabletop ambiance. Not for serious outdoor heating.

Building a Fire Pit

DIY stone/block fire pit (most popular project): Materials: fire-rated concrete blocks or natural stone. Construction adhesive. Gravel for the base. Optional: steel fire ring insert. Steps: Choose location (10+ feet from structures, overhanging trees, fences). Check local fire codes and HOA rules. Mark a circle (36-44 inches is the most common diameter). Dig 6-8 inches deep. Add 4-6 inches of gravel base and compact. Lay the first course of blocks (level each one). Stack additional courses (typically 3-4 courses high, 12-16 inches). Apply construction adhesive between courses. Optional: insert a steel fire ring for protection and longer life.

Time: 2-4 hours for a basic block fire pit.

Skill level: beginner-friendly (one of the easiest outdoor projects).

Costs

DIY: Basic steel ring: $50-$200 (buy and place). Block/stone (materials): $200-$500. Stone veneer (premium look): $500-$1,500. Gas conversion kit: $200-$500 additional.

Professional installation: Basic stone fire pit: $500-$2,000. Custom stone with seating wall: $2,000-$6,000. Gas fire pit (with gas line): $2,000-$5,000. Fire pit table (gas): $1,000-$5,000 (buy, minimal install). Premium custom (flagstone, built-in seating): $5,000-$15,000.

Ongoing costs: Firewood: $200-$400/cord (a cord lasts most of a season for casual use). Propane: $3-$5/hour of use. Natural gas: $0.50-$1.50/hour of use.

Add-ons: Seating wall: $1,000-$3,000. Cooking grate: $50-$200. Spark screen: $30-$100. Fire pit cover: $30-$100. Adirondack chairs (set of 4): $400-$1,200.