Fire Regulations in Bishop, CA (2026)
8 verified fire regulations for Bishop, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Fire Pit Rules
Backyard fire pits and recreational fires are allowed but regulated by the adopted California Fire Code: keep the fire at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material, attend it constantly, and keep a fire extinguisher or hose on hand. Burn bans apply during high fire danger.
Fire Pit Rules in Bishop, California
Some RestrictionsCalifornia Fire Code 307.4.2 and 307.4.3
Recreational fires shall not be conducted within 25 feet (7620 mm) of a structure or combustible material. ... Portable outdoor fireplaces ... shall not be operated within 15 feet (3048 mm) of a structure or combustible material.
Fireworks
Only California-approved "safe and sane" fireworks are legal in Bishop, sold from licensed booths around July 4. All "dangerous fireworks" (skyrockets, firecrackers, aerials) are illegal statewide, and fireworks are banned on Inyo National Forest, BLM, and LADWP land.
Fireworks Rules in Bishop, California
Some RestrictionsCal. Health & Safety Code 12541
Nothing in this part authorizes the sale, use, or discharge of fireworks in any city, county, or city and county in which the sale, use, or discharge is otherwise prohibited or regulated by law or ordinance.
Brush Clearance
Properties in California's very high fire hazard severity zones must maintain 100 feet of defensible space around structures under state law, and Bishop's Municipal Code requires abatement of weeds, brush, and rubbish as a public nuisance. Owners are responsible for clearing dry vegetation.
Brush Clearance Rules in Bishop, California
Some RestrictionsCal. Government Code 51182(a)(1)
Maintain defensible space of 100 feet from each side and from the front and rear of the structure, but not beyond the property line.
Outdoor Burning
Open burning of yard waste, brush, and debris requires a permit and compliance with air-district burn-day rules and the California Fire Code. When permitted, open burning must be at least 50 feet from any structure and constantly attended. Burning is often restricted during fire season.
Outdoor Burning Rules in Bishop, California
Some RestrictionsCalifornia Fire Code 307.4
The location for open burning shall be not less than 50 feet (15 240 mm) from any structure, and provisions shall be made to prevent the fire from spreading to within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of any structure.
Wildfire Zones
The State Fire Marshal designates fire hazard severity zones (moderate, high, very high) within Bishop. On March 24, 2025, updated maps were issued, and the City must adopt them by ordinance. Very high zones trigger 100-foot defensible space and stricter building requirements.
Wildfire Zones in Bishop, California
Some RestrictionsCity of Bishop, Fire Hazard Severity Zone notice (per Gov. Code 51182)
Areas designated as very high fire hazard zones will be subject to the defensible space provisions of Government Code section 51182 and implementing regulations promulgated by the Fire Marshal and State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection.
Smoke Detectors
California law requires working smoke alarms in all dwellings, and carbon monoxide alarms where there is a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace, or attached garage. Bishop enforces the state building and fire codes; landlords must install and maintain alarms in every rental unit.
Smoke Detector Rules in Bishop, California
Some RestrictionsBackyard Fires
Small backyard recreational fires for warmth or cooking are allowed under the California Fire Code but must be at least 25 feet from any structure, constantly attended, and extinguishable on demand. Larger open burning needs a permit, and all fires can be banned during high fire danger.
Backyard Fire Rules in Bishop, California
Some RestrictionsCalifornia Fire Code 307.5
Open burning, bonfires, recreational fires and use of portable outdoor fireplaces shall be constantly attended until the fire is extinguished. Not fewer than one portable fire extinguisher ... shall be available for immediate utilization.
Propane Storage
Propane (LP-gas) storage is regulated by the California Fire Code, which Bishop enforces. Small consumer cylinders for BBQ are allowed, but larger tanks require permits, clearances from buildings and property lines, and protection from vehicle impact. Installations must meet NFPA 58.
Propane Storage Rules in Bishop, California
Some RestrictionsLooking for Inyo County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Bishop city rules.
Fire Regulations in Inyo County →