Before you do anything, contact your local government, homeowners' association or fire department to make sure that firepits are legal in your community. Find out if there are any restrictions on the size, placement, material or fuel type and be sure to comply with all regulations and obtain any required permits. To make a low-cost firepit yourself, you need a variety of tools and materials. TOOLS: Shovel, hand tamper, rubber mallet, trowel, level, marking paint MATERIALS: Pre-cut blocks (trapezoidal for a round fire pit), metal fire bowl or ring (or fire bricks), granite gravel, landscape fabric, pavers, crushed stones or pea gravel, mortar or construction adhesive STEPS: 1) Select the location of your firepit - Find a position 15-20 feet away from structures or flammable materials - Clear away brush and overhanging branches in the area 2) Mark and prep the area - Use marking paint to draw a circle slightly bigger than the circumference of the firepit (typically 3-4 feet across) - With a shovel, dig a hole roughly 7 inches deep - Pack the dirt down solidly with a tamper and make sure it's level 3) Build the fire pit foundation with gravel - Pour crushed paver gravel into the hole (about 5 inches) - Thoroughly wet the gravel and tamp it down until there's a compact layer approximately 2 inches below the surface - Check to make sure it's still level 4) Set the blocks in place - Place the first layer of blocks on the gravel base around the perimeter - Make sure the blocks are fitted tightly together - Use leveling sand and a long level at multiple spots around the circle to ensure everything is the same height (tap with a rubber mallet to make small adjustments) - Lay the second layer of blocks but stagger the joints with the first 5) Test the fit of your fire ring or firepit bowl - Set the metal ring within the block circle and ensure a snug fit - If it's a metal bowl, make sure the lip rests fully and securely on the top of the blocks - Adjust the blocks if necessary - Remove the ring or bowl 6) Secure the blocks - Remove the second layer of blocks - Apply mortar or construction adhesive to the bottom layer of blocks - Refit the second layer and repeat the process for additional layers (most fire pits have 3-4) - Be sure to test fit each row as you go before permanently securing the blocks in place 7) Protect the surrounding area - Dig a 7-foot diameter trench around the firepit (2-4 inches deep) - Line the bottom with landscaping fabric to prevent weeds and other plant growth - Cover the area with pea gravel, crushed rocks or stone pavers NOTE: Check the curing time for the construction adhesive or mortar to ensure the DIY fire pit is completely dry and ready to safely handle a fire.