Backyard Paver Fire Pit: A Fast, Clean Build

Tired of shuffling chairs around a scruffy burn spot? A simple paver fire pit cleans up the yard, cuts mowing hassle, and becomes the hangout spot.

What you’ll get: a clear, repeatable process for a paver-base fire pit you can build in an afternoon with a small crew.

Plan the layout

• Aim for a 15 ft overall circle with a four-foot inner diameter for the pit. That leaves room for Adirondack chairs without crowding.
• Mark the circles with marking paint so digging and layout stay true.
• Decide your courses up front: three rings of small circular pavers with a top cap gives a clean edge and slight overhang.

Build a stable base

• Excavate and level the area, then trench about 6 inches around the perimeter for rock to contain the seating ring.
• Use a layered approach: paver rock at the bottom, then paver sand, then your 15x15 base pavers. Keep it level before stacking any walls.
• A four-by-four grid of 15x15 pavers creates a flat, square platform that simplifies ring layout.

Stack smart and lock it in

• Dry-fit each circular course to confirm your count before committing. One circle at a time keeps gaps consistent.
• Use construction adhesive between courses: lift one piece, apply, set it back, and move to the next so you always return to a finished state.
• Add the top cap last for contrast and a comfortable edge. Overhang is good—it visually defines the pit.

Finish the surround

• Lay premium landscape fabric over the graded area to block weeds under the seating ring.
• Fill with number two red crush rock so chairs sit solid and the mower glides cleanly along the edge.
• Consider a wagon wheel grate and a fire ring later to improve durability and ease of use.

Build notes: three rings used 23 bricks per circle. The base used a grid of 15x15 pavers. Landscape fabric runs under the rock seating area.

Final takeaway: Keep it level, glue between courses, and finish with fabric and rock. The result is a tidy, durable fire pit you’ll actually enjoy maintaining.