Functional Tire Rim Fire Pit in 7 Easy Steps

Last Updated on December 16, 2025 by teamobn

Fire pits are a great addition to any backyard if you enjoy spending time outdoors at night. They provide warmth and light, and they create a natural gathering place for family and friends.

A tire rim fire pit made from a tractor tire rim is an affordable and simple way to add a fire pit to your outdoor space. This project uses an old metal rim, basic tools, and materials that are easy to find. It also gives a second life to a piece of heavy duty metal that might otherwise be thrown away.

Before we dive into the full guide, here is a quick summary.

Quick Answer: How To Build A Tire Rim Fire Pit

To build a tire rim fire pit, remove the rubber tire and use only the bare metal tractor rim. Choose a flat, non-flammable area in your yard at least 10 feet away from buildings, trees, and fences. Dig a shallow pit, add a base of gravel and sand, then set the metal rim in the center. Surround the rim with bricks or large stones to create a heat barrier and keep people away from hot metal. Keep water, sand, or a fire extinguisher nearby and always follow local fire rules.

Why Use A Tractor Tire Rim For A Fire Pit

An old tractor tire rim is made from thick, heavy-duty steel. This makes it ideal for a fire pit because:

• It can handle high temperatures
• It helps contain the fire
• It is strong and durable

You must never burn the rubber tire itself. Use only the clean metal rim, with all rubber and any flammable material completely removed.

Once you have a bare metal rim, you can set it into a prepared base in your backyard, surround it with bricks or rocks, and create a safe and long-lasting feature for your outdoor space.

Project At A Glance

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Time Required: About 2 to 4 hours, not including gathering materials
• Cost: Low, especially if you already have an old rim and some bricks or rocks
• Best For: Backyards with enough open space and no local bans on open fires

Always check your local fire regulations, burn restrictions, and council rules before building or using any fire pit.

Building Your Tire Rim Fire Pit

What Are the Materials Needed To Build a Tire Rim Fire Pit

• Old metal tractor tire rim (rubber completely removed)
• Bricks or large rocks
• Crushed gravel and sand
• Landscape adhesive (optional, for a more permanent brick wall)
• Fire bricks (optional, for lining inside the rim)

Tools You’ll Need

• Shovel
• Level (optional but helpful)

How To Build A Tire Rim Fire Pit Step By Step

Step 1: Choose A Safe Location

• Pick a flat, open area in your backyard.
• Make sure it is at least 10 feet away from your house, garage, shed, fence, trees, bushes, and any overhanging branches.
• Do not place the fire pit on a wooden deck or directly on dry grass.
• A base of concrete, stone, or bare soil with gravel is much safer.

Remove grass, leaves, and any other flammable material from the area.

Step 2: Prepare The Base

• Use the shovel to dig a shallow pit about 6 inches deep.
• Make the pit slightly wider than the tractor rim.
• Pour in crushed gravel and sand until it is about 3 inches deep.
• Spread and level this layer so it is flat and even.

This base helps drain water, keeps the fire pit stable, and creates a fire-resistant surface.

Step 3: Place The Tire Rim

• Carefully set the metal tractor rim in the center of the pit.
• Make sure there is no rubber left on the rim and no flammable material attached.
• Use a level if you have one, and adjust the gravel and sand as needed so the rim sits flat and stable.

A level rim helps the fire burn evenly and looks better in your yard.

Step 4: Secure The Rim With Gravel And Sand

• Fill the gap around the outside of the rim with more crushed gravel and sand.
• Pack it in firmly to help anchor the rim and keep it from moving.

If you leave a small space between the rim and the future brick or rock wall, you can also fill that gap with gravel and sand to help keep the outer wall cool.

Step 5: Build A Protective Brick Or Rock Wall

• Arrange bricks or large rocks in a ring around the rim.
• Keep a small gap between the metal rim and the bricks or rocks.
• The bricks or rocks should be close enough to act as a barrier but not so close that they overheat too much.

If you want a more permanent build:

• Apply landscape adhesive between the bricks to hold them together.
• You can also use mortar if you prefer a solid wall, but this takes more time and effort.

The outer ring creates a safety barrier that helps protect people from touching the hot metal and gives the fire pit a finished look.

Step 6: Add Extra Safety Features

If you want to make your tire rim fire pit even safer and more efficient, you can:

• Fill the gap between the rim and the brick wall with gravel and sand until it is level with the top of the bricks. This helps absorb heat and keeps the outer wall cooler.
• Line the inside of the metal rim with fire bricks. Fire bricks hold in heat, protect the metal, and can extend the life of your fire pit.
• Consider adding a metal screen or lid designed for fire pits to help contain embers and sparks.

These steps are optional but strongly recommended for safety and durability.

Step 7: Final Checks Before Use

• Check that the rim is stable and does not rock or tip.
• Make sure the bricks or rocks are firmly in place.
• Clean up any leftover debris, tools, or loose materials around the pit.
• Prepare fire safety supplies before you light the first fire. Keep a bucket of water, a bucket of sand, or a multi purpose fire extinguisher nearby.

Never use gasoline, kerosene, or other liquid fuels to start or grow a fire.

Safety Measures For Tire Rim Fire Pits

Creating a tire rim fire pit is a fun backyard project, but safety must always come first. Here are practical guidelines to keep every fire session safe and enjoyable.

Are Tire Rim Fire Pits Safe

A tire rim fire pit can be safe if it is built correctly and used responsibly. The most important safety points are:

• Use only the bare metal rim, never any rubber tire material
• Place the fire pit on a stable, non-flammable surface
• Keep it well away from buildings, fences, and trees
• Supervise the fire at all times and keep children and pets at a safe distance
• Follow local fire rules and weather restrictions

If you follow these rules and the steps in this guide, a tractor rim fire pit can be a durable and safe feature in your yard.

Proper Placement

• Keep at least 10 feet of clearance around your fire pit.
• Avoid placing it under low branches or near dry shrubs.
• Choose a flat, stable surface so the fire pit does not tip.
• Do not place it directly on wood or plastic, which can melt or catch fire.

These placement rules reduce the risk of a fire spreading or causing damage.

Fire Extinguishing Supplies

Keep simple but effective tools close at hand whenever you use your fire pit:

• A bucket of water for putting out remaining coals and small flames
• A bucket of sand for smothering a fire without creating steam or smoke
• A multi-purpose fire extinguisher that is easy to reach and in good working order

Check your fire extinguisher regularly to make sure it is charged and ready to use. Make sure everyone who uses the fire pit knows where these supplies are and how to use them.

Supervision And Boundaries

• Never leave a fire pit unattended, even for a short time.
• Always have at least one responsible adult watching the fire.
• Set a clear boundary around the fire pit, such as a ring of stones or a visible line that children and pets must not cross.
• Explain basic fire safety rules to children in simple terms.

For pets, use a leash or keep them indoors if they are likely to run near the fire. Clear rules and constant supervision prevent most accidents.

Click on any image to start the lightbox display. Use your Esc key to close the lightbox.

Decorating Your Tractor Rim Fire Pit Area

A simple tractor rim fire pit can become the heart of a comfortable and attractive outdoor living space. Thoughtful decorating and landscaping make it more inviting, while still keeping safety in mind.

Choose Comfortable Seating

• Use outdoor furniture that can handle weather, such as metal, treated wood, or all-weather wicker.
• Arrange chairs or benches in a circle or semi-circle around the fire pit so people can see and talk to each other easily.
• Keep seating at a safe distance from the flame and hot metal.
• Add outdoor cushions and a few blankets or throws for cooler nights.

Comfortable seating encourages people to relax and enjoy the fire longer.

Lighting For Ambiance And Safety

• Hang string lights above or around the seating area to create a soft, warm glow.
• Place solar lanterns or low garden lights along the path to the fire pit to make walking safer at night.
• Consider small spotlights or wall lights that can brighten the area when you need extra visibility.
• Use sturdy candle holders if you like candles, and keep them away from flammable materials.

Good lighting creates a mood and also reduces trips and falls in the dark.

Landscaping Around The Fire Pit

• Choose plants that are more fire-resistant, such as certain succulents or low-growing shrubs recommended by your local garden center.
• Keep plants trimmed and remove dead leaves and branches regularly.
• Use decorative stones or bricks to outline the area around the fire pit.
• For ground cover, consider pea gravel or crushed stone instead of bark or wood chip mulch, since stone is much less likely to catch fire.

This creates a tidy, attractive space that is also more fire safe.

Personalize With Accessories

• Add garden sculptures or metal art that match your style.
• Use weather-resistant wall art or hangings on nearby fences or walls.
• Hang wind chimes for a gentle sound around the fire area.
• Include a small water feature, such as a fountain, if space allows.
• Place an outdoor rug under the seating area to add color and comfort.
• Choose a decorative firewood holder and a stylish set of basic fire tools, such as a poker, shovel, and brush.

These personal touches make the space feel like an outdoor living room rather than just a simple fire pit.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tire Rim Fire Pits

• What safety measures should I take with my tire rim fire pit?
  • Safety measures for a tire rim fire pit include placing it away from structures and flammable materials, having fire extinguishing supplies nearby, and never leaving the fire unattended. It’s also important to supervise children and pets around the fire pit.
• How do I choose the best location for my tire rim fire pit?
  • Choose a flat, stable surface for your tire rim fire pit, away from houses, trees, and other flammable structures. Ensure there’s at least a 10-foot clearance around the fire pit to reduce the risk of accidental fires.
• Can I decorate around my tire rim fire pit?
  • Absolutely! Decorating around your tire rim fire pit can enhance the area’s ambiance. Use comfortable seating, ambient lighting, fire-resistant plants, and personal decorative elements to create a cozy and inviting outdoor space.
• What maintenance is required for a tire rim fire pit?
  • Maintaining your tire rim fire pit involves regular cleaning, checking for any signs of wear or damage, and ensuring the area around it is free of flammable debris. Proper maintenance ensures the fire pit remains safe and enjoyable to use.
• Is it expensive to build a tire rim fire pit?
  • Building a tire rim fire pit is generally not expensive. The main cost is the old tractor tire rim, with other materials like bricks, gravel, and sand being relatively affordable. It’s a budget-friendly option compared to buying a pre-made fire pit, which can range upwards of $15,000-$30,000.
• How do I ensure my tire rim fire pit is stable?
  • Place your tire rim fire pit on a flat, level surface to ensure stability. Fill the base with a layer of sand and gravel and securely set the rim in this base. Check regularly to make sure it remains level and stable.

Conclusion

Building a tire rim fire pit from an old tractor rim is a satisfying DIY project that adds both warmth and character to your backyard. By choosing a safe location, building a solid base, surrounding the rim with bricks or rocks, and following basic fire safety rules, you can create a cozy gathering place that you will enjoy for years.

Combine your new fire pit with comfortable seating, soft lighting, and simple landscaping, and you will have an outdoor space that is perfect for relaxing evenings and memorable get togethers.

If you want, tell me what you plan to keep or cut, and I can help adjust the length or tone to better match the rest of your site.