Outdoor Burning: Altadena vs Pasadena
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Altadena, CA and Pasadena, CA?
Altadena and Pasadena have similar restriction levels.
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 →Pasadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Pasadena prohibits open burning under South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 444 and the California Fire Code. Burning trash, yard waste, and debris is illegal. Agricultural burning requires AQMD permits.
View full Pasadena rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Pasadena |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | LA Co. Fire Code Title 32 §307 + SCAQMD Rule 444 | - |
| Backyard Burning | Generally prohibited | - |
| Permit Required | Yes — from LA County Fire | - |
| Red Flag Days | All permits suspended | - |
| Open Burning | - | Prohibited |
| Authority | - | SCAQMD Rule 444 + CA Fire Code |
| No-Burn Days | - | AQMD may declare restrictions |
| AQMD Fine | - | Up to $1,000/day |
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.
Pasadena FAQ
Can I burn yard waste in Pasadena?
No. Open burning is prohibited under SCAQMD Rule 444 and the California Fire Code. Use city green waste collection instead.
What about a campfire in my backyard?
Recreational fires in approved containers may be allowed under specific conditions, but are subject to AQMD no-burn day restrictions.
Compare other topics
See how Altadena and Pasadena compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool