How Much Fill Dirt Do I Need?
Free Calculator & Guide
Estimating fill dirt is one of the most common questions we get. Or skip it — call 510-860-4639 with your dimensions and we'll work it out with you.
The Basic Formula
Fill dirt is sold in cubic yards. One cubic yard = 3 ft × 3 ft × 3 ft = 27 cubic feet.
(Length ft × Width ft × Depth ft) ÷ 27 = Cubic yards
Fill Dirt Calculator
Real Project Examples
| Project | Dimensions | Yards |
|---|---|---|
| Small backyard low spot | 10×10 ft, 6 in deep | 1.85 yd (below 7-yd min) |
| Medium yard leveling | 20×20 ft, 1 ft deep | 14.8 yd |
| Large backyard regrade | 50×30 ft, 4 in deep | 18.5 yd |
| Paver patio base | 15×20 ft, 4 in deep | 3.7 yd (below 7-yd min) |
| Driveway slab base | 20×40 ft, 6 in deep | 14.8 yd |
| Filling a former pool | 15×30 ft, 5 ft avg | 83 yd (multiple loads) |
| ADU pad prep | 25×30 ft, 8 in deep | 18.5 yd |
Tips for Ordering the Right Amount
- Add 10–15% for compaction — fill settles when compacted (our calculator does this automatically).
- Round up to the nearest delivery size; a second small load costs more in time.
- Measure depth at the deepest point on uneven ground, then average.
- For holes/pools, measure depth at center, not the edge.
- Account for slope — the low side needs more fill.
- Factor in access — hard-to-reach areas lose some material to spillage.