Backyard Fires: Berkeley vs San Leandro
How do backyard fires rules compare between Berkeley, CA and San Leandro, CA?
San Leandro has fewer restrictions than Berkeley.
Berkeley, CA
Alameda County
Open recreational fires are prohibited in Berkeley backyards. Only enclosed gas grills and UL-listed gas patio heaters are allowed, with strict setbacks and Red Flag shutoffs.
View full Berkeley rules →San Leandro, CA
Alameda County
Backyard recreational fires in San Leandro are allowed in approved pits under 3 ft diameter with 15 ft setback, banned on Spare the Air days.
View full San Leandro rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Berkeley | San Leandro |
|---|---|---|
| Wood fires | Prohibited in yards | - |
| Gas grills | 10-foot setback required | - |
| Multi-family | No flames on balconies | - |
| Red Flag | All flames discouraged | - |
| Spare the Air | Fines 100-2,000 dollars | - |
| Allowed Fuel | - | Clean dry firewood |
| Attendance | - | Required at all times |
| Setback | - | 15 ft structures |
| Spare Air | - | No wood fires |
| Extinguisher | - | Must be on hand |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Berkeley FAQ
Can I have a Solo Stove smokeless fire pit?
No. Berkeley treats any wood-burning device as prohibited regardless of emissions claims. Smokeless stoves still produce embers and violate BMC 9.24.
Is a charcoal grill OK for BBQ?
Charcoal grills are tolerated in the flats with a 10-foot setback but strongly discouraged in the hills. Always have a water source, never leave unattended, and do not use on Red Flag days.
San Leandro FAQ
Can I have a chiminea or fire bowl in my San Leandro backyard?
Yes. Manufactured chimineas and bowls are allowed with the same 15 ft setback, provided you burn only clean wood and check Spare the Air status.
Who enforces this in San Leandro?
San Leandro code enforcement at (510) 577-3394 handles most complaints. Alameda County agencies handle regional issues.
Compare other topics
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