Fire Regulations in San Rafael, CA (2026)
4 verified fire regulations for San Rafael, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Fire Pit Rules
Recreational fires in approved fire pits using clean, dry wood are generally allowed in San Rafael subject to fire-code clearances and Spare the Air / red-flag day restrictions; fires must be attended and a safe distance from structures and vegetation.
Fire: Fire Pit Rules
Some RestrictionsFireworks
All fireworks — including 'safe and sane' fireworks — are prohibited citywide. §19.20.080(B)(3) specifically bars possession or ignition of fireworks on any city property (parks, open space, beaches, public facilities), and the underlying fire code adopted by Chapter 4.08 extends the ban citywide year-round.
San Rafael Fireworks Ban
Heavy RestrictionsBrush Clearance
Chapter 4.12 of the SRMC establishes vegetation management standards. Since April 2022 the standards apply to all parcels citywide, not just Wildland-Urban Interface lots. §4.12.030 lists hazards that must be resolved; the rules require 0-5 ft of cleared space around all structures (succulents or grass under 3 inches only) and removal of juniper, bamboo, acacia, and Italian cypress.
San Rafael Vegetation Management (WUI Standards)
Heavy RestrictionsSan Rafael Municipal Code §4.12.030 — Vegetation Management Standards
No vegetation except for 3-inch grass or succulents is to exist within 0'-5' of any structures on the property. Additionally, lower tree branches should be removed within 5 feet of the ground, not to exceed 1/3 of the tree's total height. All property owners in San Rafael, both public and private, will be required to remove all juniper, bamboo, acacia, and Italian cypress from their property.
Outdoor Burning
Open burning in San Rafael is regulated by the Bay Area Air Quality Management District and the fire department; residential yard-waste burning is generally prohibited and barred on Spare the Air days. Defensible-space clearance applies in the city's hillside fire zones.
Fire: Outdoor Burning
Heavy RestrictionsLooking for Marin County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement San Rafael city rules.
Fire Regulations in Marin County →