Fire Pit Rules: Altadena vs Santa Monica
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Altadena, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Santa Monica has fewer restrictions than Altadena.
Altadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Altadena sits in or adjacent to Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (Eaton Canyon, foothills). LA County Fire Code Title 32 restricts open flames and recreational fires; STRs in VHFHSZ must post a no-flame notice (LA County Code 7.96.060.O).
View full Altadena rules →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Portable fire pits on private property in Santa Monica must comply with South Coast AQMD regulations. Burns are prohibited on spare-the-air days. Beach fires are limited to designated areas. Fire pits must be attended at all times.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | LA County Fire Code Title 32 §§ 307, 308 | - |
| Recreational Fire Setback | 25 ft from structures | - |
| Portable Fireplace | 15 ft setback | - |
| Red Flag Days | All open burning suspended | - |
| AQMD | - | No burns on spare-the-air days |
| Beach | - | Designated areas only |
| Attended | - | Must be supervised at all times |
| Private Property | - | Allowed with conditions |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Altadena FAQ
Can I have a backyard fire pit in Altadena?
Yes, subject to LA County Fire Code Title 32 setbacks (25 ft for open flame, 15 ft for portable fireplaces) and any red-flag warnings. In VHFHSZ areas additional restrictions apply.
Santa Monica FAQ
Are fire pits allowed in residential areas in Santa Monica?
Portable fire pits on private property in Santa Monica must comply with South Coast AQMD regulations. Burns are prohibited on spare-the-air days. Beach fires are limited to designated areas. Fire pits must be attended at all times.
What are the fire pit setback requirements in Santa Monica?
AQMD: No burns on spare-the-air days. Beach: Designated areas only. Attended: Must be supervised at all times. Private Property: Allowed with conditions.
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