Outdoor Burning: Altadena vs Torrance
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Altadena, CA and Torrance, CA?
Altadena and Torrance 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 →Torrance, CA
Los Angeles County
Torrance prohibits making or kindling fire in any public place including streets, sidewalks, public rights-of-way, and greenbelts under TMC Chapter 85 (Fire Prevention). The city adopts the California Fire Code with local amendments. SCAQMD Rule 444 also restricts open burning in the South Coast Air Basin.
View full Torrance rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Torrance |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Public Places | - | All fires prohibited |
| Fire Code | - | CA Fire Code 2025 Ed. |
| Air Quality | - | SCAQMD Rule 444 |
| Code | - | TMC Ch. 85 |
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.
Torrance FAQ
Can I have a fire pit in my backyard in Torrance?
Recreational fires in approved fire pits on private property may be permitted, subject to SCAQMD air quality rules. Prohibited during Red Flag warnings.
Is open burning allowed anywhere in Torrance?
No open burning is allowed in any public place. Private property fires must comply with the California Fire Code and SCAQMD regulations.
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