Outdoor Burning: Altadena vs Downey
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Altadena, CA and Downey, CA?
Downey has fewer restrictions than Altadena.
Altadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Open outdoor burning of vegetation is generally prohibited in unincorporated LA County. SCAQMD Rule 444 governs agricultural and rangeland burning; permits required from LA County Fire.
View full Altadena rules →Downey, CA
Los Angeles County
Downey Municipal Code Chapter 3 (Fire Code) requires permits for recreational fires. Open burning is restricted by SCAQMD rules. Fires are prohibited before 7 AM and after 10 PM Sunday-Thursday or midnight Friday-Saturday.
View full Downey rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Downey |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | LA Co. Fire Code Title 32 §307 + SCAQMD Rule 444 | Art. V, Ch. 3 (Fire Code) |
| Backyard Burning | Generally prohibited | - |
| Permit Required | Yes — from LA County Fire | Yes, from Fire Dept. |
| Red Flag Days | All permits suspended | - |
| Weekday Cutoff | - | 7 AM start; 10 PM end (Sun-Thu) |
| Weekend Cutoff | - | 7 AM start; midnight end (Fri-Sat) |
| No-Burn Days | - | SCAQMD designated days |
| Fire Dept | - | (562) 904-7345 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Altadena FAQ
Can I burn yard waste in Altadena?
No — open burning of vegetative waste in unincorporated LA County requires a permit and is generally prohibited by SCAQMD Rule 444 and LA County Fire Code.
Downey FAQ
Can I have a fire pit in Downey?
Yes, but you need a permit from the Downey Fire Department. Fires are allowed after 7 AM and must end by 10 PM on weeknights or midnight on Friday/Saturday. No fires on SCAQMD no-burn days.
Can I burn yard waste in Downey?
No. Open burning of yard waste is prohibited by SCAQMD Rule 444. All green waste must be disposed of through regular waste collection.
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