Outdoor Burning: Anaheim vs Santa Ana
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Anaheim, CA and Santa Ana, CA?
Anaheim has fewer restrictions than Santa Ana.
Anaheim, CA
Orange County
Anaheim requires recreational fire compliance with Anaheim Fire & Rescue guidelines. Chimineas and portable fire pits must be placed at least 15 feet from structures. No fires on Red Flag days or during Santa Ana winds. No permit needed for portable fire pits.
View full Anaheim rules →Santa Ana, CA
Orange County
Open burning is prohibited in Santa Ana under SAMC Chapter 14 and South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Rule 444. Recreational fires in approved fire pits may be permitted subject to OCFA regulations and air quality restrictions.
View full Santa Ana rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Anaheim | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Setback | 15 ft from structures | - |
| Permit | Not required for pits | - |
| Red Flag Days | All fires prohibited | - |
| Code | AMC Ch. 16.08 | - |
| Open Burning | - | Prohibited |
| Recreational Fire Pits | - | Allowed with conditions |
| Clearance from Structures | - | 15 ft minimum |
| Air Quality Rule | - | SCAQMD Rule 444 |
| No-Burn Days | - | All fires prohibited |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Anaheim FAQ
Can I have a fire pit in Anaheim?
Yes. Portable fire pits and chimineas do not need a permit but must be 15 feet from structures, constantly attended, and not used on Red Flag days.
Can I burn yard waste in Anaheim?
No. Open burning of yard waste and debris is prohibited by SCAQMD Rule 444 and state law.
Santa Ana FAQ
Can I have a fire pit in my backyard in Santa Ana?
Yes, recreational fires in approved manufactured fire pits are permitted provided the fire is at least 15 feet from any structure, attended at all times, and not during SCAQMD no-burn days.
Can I burn yard waste in Santa Ana?
No. All open burning including yard waste is prohibited under SCAQMD Rule 444 and SAMC Chapter 14.
Compare other topics
See how Anaheim and Santa Ana 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