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Fire Pits and Outdoor Living Spaces in Peoria, IL
Built-in fire pits, seating walls and patio extensions that turn a backyard into a place you actually use, from cool April evenings to football season in October.
Popular builds
- Built-in stone or block fire pits
- Seat walls around the fire
- Patio extensions for a fire area
- Gas fire pit surrounds (gas line by a licensed pro)
- Lighting for evening use
Short answer
What does a backyard fire pit project include?
Most projects are a built-in fire pit ringed with block or natural stone, set on a compacted gravel base, with a paver or gravel area around it and seating, often a low seat wall. In Peoria’s freeze-thaw climate, the base matters as much as the stone: a fire pit set on bare clay heaves and cracks within a few winters.
Wood-burning or gas? Wood gives the real campfire feel and costs less to build. Gas lights with a switch, makes less smoke and suits smaller yards, but the gas line has to be run by a licensed professional.
Planning
Planning a fire area that works
Placement
Keep the fire well away from the house, fences, sheds and overhanging branches, and check the fire pit’s instructions for clearances. Think about which way the wind usually blows smoke.
Seating
A seat wall doubles as seating and edging. Plan enough room behind chairs to walk around the fire safely.
Ground
Pavers or gravel around the fire, never grass or mulch right up to the edge. A level, well-drained base keeps it from shifting.
Before using a wood fire, check the City of Peoria’s current open-burning and recreational fire rules (or your town’s, if you live outside Peoria).
Pairs well with
Build it with the rest of the yard
- Paver patios and walkways to connect the fire area to the house
- Retaining walls to create a flat spot on a sloped lot
- Landscape lighting for steps and paths after dark
- Planting for privacy around the seating area
Price ranges for patios and walls are in our Peoria landscaping cost guide.
FAQ
Fire pit questions
How much does a fire pit cost in Peoria?
It depends on size, materials, wood or gas, and whether it includes a patio and seat walls. You get a written price after we look at the space.
Can you build a fire pit on a slope?
Yes, usually with a short retaining wall to create a level area first.
Do fire pits crack in Illinois winters?
They can if they’re set on bare clay. A compacted gravel base and proper drainage keep them stable.
Who installs the gas line for a gas fire pit?
A licensed professional. We build the surround and coordinate with them.
Related: Paver patio cost · Hardscaping · Patios · Lighting
Get a fire pit estimate
Call or request a free written estimate. We will get back to you within [RESPONSE TIME].