Fire Regulations in Los Angeles, CA (2026)
8 verified fire regulations for Los Angeles, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Fire Pit Rules
Recreational fires in fire pits are allowed in Los Angeles but must comply with SCAQMD Rule 444 and LAMC fire code provisions. Fires must be in approved containers, no larger than 3 feet in diameter, at least 15 feet from structures, and never during SCAQMD no-burn days. Wood-burning fire pits may be further restricted in the VHFHSZ.
Los Angeles Fire Pit & Recreational Fire Rules
Some RestrictionsFireworks
ALL fireworks are illegal in the City of Los Angeles under LAMC §57.5608.1.2. Includes sparklers and 'Safe and Sane' devices. Fines up to $1,000; felony charges possible for large quantities.
Los Angeles Fireworks Ban
Heavy RestrictionsBrush Clearance
Properties in the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone must maintain defensible space per LAMC 57.4906.5.2. Vegetation must be cleared within 200 feet of structures and 10 feet of combustible fences or roadways. Grass and native brush must be cut to 3 inches. LAFD conducts annual inspections April through October with fines for non-compliance.
Los Angeles Brush Clearance Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsCalifornia Public Resources Code Sec. 4291 (Defensible Space / Brush Clearance Requirements)
4291. (a) A person who owns, leases, controls, operates, or maintains a building or structure in the state responsibility area shall at all times do all of the following: (1) (A) Maintain defensible space of 100 feet from each side and from the front and rear of the structure, but not beyond the property line, except as provided in subparagraph (B). The amount of fuel modification necessary sha...
Outdoor Burning
Open burning of trash, yard waste, and debris is prohibited in Los Angeles. South Coast AQMD governs. Recreational fires in approved containers may be allowed but subject to Spare the Air restrictions.
Los Angeles Outdoor Burning Regulations
Heavy RestrictionsWildfire Zones
Approximately one-third of LA city land is mapped as Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. Properties in VHFHSZ face mandatory brush clearance, enhanced building standards (fire-resistant roofing, ignition-resistant materials), and restrictions on ADU construction in hillside areas. LAFD enforces compliance through annual inspections and abatement programs.
Los Angeles Wildfire Hazard Zones
Heavy RestrictionsSmoke Detectors
California Health and Safety Code 13113.7 plus LAMC require smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on every floor. Replacements must be 10-year sealed lithium.
Smoke Detector Requirements in Los Angeles
Heavy RestrictionsCalifornia Health and Safety Code § 13113.7
(a) (1) Except as otherwise provided in this section, smoke alarms, approved and listed by the State Fire Marshal pursuant to Section 13114 at the time of installation, shall be installed, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions in each dwelling intended for human occupancy. (2) For all dwelling units intended for human occupancy for which a building permit is issued on or after Janu...
Backyard Fires
LAFD allows portable fire pits with seasoned wood, 10-foot clearance, and full extinguishment. SCAQMD Rule 444 bans open burning. Red Flag days suspend all outdoor fires.
Backyard Fire Rules in Los Angeles
Heavy RestrictionsPropane Storage
Los Angeles Fire Code §61 and §6101.6 limit residential outdoor propane storage to cylinders aggregating ten gallons (about 42 pounds) without a permit, require LAFD permits above 25 gallons, and prohibit indoor storage of cylinders larger than one pound.
LA Caps Residential Propane Cylinders at Ten Gallons
Some RestrictionsLooking for Los Angeles County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Los Angeles city rules.
Fire Regulations in Los Angeles County →