Backyard Fires: Burbank vs Long Beach
How do backyard fires rules compare between Burbank, CA and Long Beach, CA?
Burbank and Long Beach have similar restriction levels.
Burbank, CA
Los Angeles County
Burbank has no separate backyard-fire ordinance; recreational backyard fires are governed by the 2025 California Fire Code adopted in Burbank Municipal Code 9-1-9. A recreational fire must be 25 feet from structures/combustibles (15 feet for a portable outdoor fireplace, excepted at one- and two-family homes), constantly attended, and never used for open burning of waste, which requires a Fire Code Official permit.
View full Burbank rules →Long Beach, CA
Los Angeles County
Long Beach permits small recreational backyard fires in compliant fire pits and chimineas burning clean wood only. Open burning of yard waste, trash, or construction debris is prohibited year-round per LBMC fire code and AQMD rules.
View full Long Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Burbank | Long Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | BMC 9-1-9 (adopts 2025 CFC); CFC 307.4 / 307.5 | - |
| Recreational fire clearance | 25 ft from structures/combustibles | - |
| Waste burning | Not a recreational fire - needs open-burning permit (9-1-9-307.1.1.1) | - |
| Attendance | Must be constantly attended until out (CFC 307.5) | - |
| Permitted Fuel | - | Seasoned clean wood only |
| Distance | - | 10+ ft from structures |
| Trash Burning | - | Prohibited (SCAQMD Rule 444) |
| Red Flag | - | All outdoor fires banned |
| Fine | - | $250-$1,000 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Burbank FAQ
Is a backyard campfire or chiminea allowed in Burbank?
A small recreational fire (for warmth or cooking) is allowed if you follow the adopted California Fire Code - keep proper clearance (25 ft for a fire, 15 ft for a portable outdoor fireplace except at 1-2 family homes) and keep it constantly attended. Burning waste is not a recreational fire and needs a permit.
Can I burn leaves or yard trimmings in my yard?
No - that is open burning, not a recreational fire, and it is only allowed under the limited Fire Code Official permits in BMC 9-1-9-307.1.1.1. Yard-waste disposal burning is not a permitted purpose.
Long Beach FAQ
Can I have a fire pit in my Long Beach backyard?
Yes — propane, natural gas, or small wood-burning fire pits burning clean wood are allowed with 10-foot clearance from structures. Always attend the fire and fully extinguish before leaving.
Can I burn yard waste in Long Beach?
No. South Coast AQMD Rule 444 and Long Beach fire code prohibit open burning of yard waste, leaves, or trash year-round. Compost or place in green-waste carts for pickup.
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