Fire Pit Rules: Camarillo vs Ojai
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Camarillo, CA and Ojai, CA?
Camarillo has fewer restrictions than Ojai.
Camarillo, CA
Ventura County
Fire pits in Camarillo are regulated by the Ventura County Fire Protection District (VCFPD) under the California Fire Code as adopted locally. Portable fire pits and chimineas are generally allowed with restrictions on fuel type, setbacks from structures, and clearance requirements. Permanent fire pits may require a building permit under CMC Title 16.
View full Camarillo rules →Ojai, CA
Ventura County
Ojai regulates fire pits through Ventura County Fire Protection District (VCFPD) standards. Portable fire pits must be at least 15 feet from structures, use approved fuels only, and comply with any active burn bans. Permanent fire pits require building and fire department permits.
View full Ojai rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Camarillo | Ojai |
|---|---|---|
| Authority | Ventura County Fire District | - |
| Structure Clearance | Minimum 10 feet from buildings | - |
| Permanent Pits | Building permit may be required | - |
| Burn Bans | All outdoor fires prohibited during bans | Frequently enacted due to wildfire risk |
| Fire District Contact | (805) 389-9710 | - |
| Setback | - | 15 feet from structures |
| Max Diameter | - | 3 feet |
| Spark Screen | - | Required for wood-burning |
| Ventura County Fire | - | (805) 389-9710 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Camarillo FAQ
Can I have a fire pit in my Camarillo backyard?
Generally yes. Portable fire pits and chimineas are allowed with adequate clearance from structures (typically 10 feet). The fire must be attended at all times and a fire extinguisher or garden hose must be available. Check your HOA rules for additional restrictions.
Do I need a permit for a fire pit in Camarillo?
Portable fire pits typically do not need a permit. Permanent built-in fire pits, outdoor fireplaces, and gas-plumbed installations may require a building permit under CMC Title 16. Contact Community Development at (805) 388-5360 for permit requirements.
Can I burn wood in a fire pit in Camarillo?
Seasoned wood may be burned in approved fire pits outside of burn ban periods. During red flag warnings or VCAPCD-declared no-burn days, all open burning is prohibited. Check the VCAPCD at (805) 645-1400 for current burn day status.
Ojai FAQ
Can I have a fire pit in Ojai?
Yes, but with strict conditions: 15-foot clearance from structures, spark screen required, 3-foot max diameter, and compliance with any active burn bans.
How do I know if there's a burn ban?
Check the Ventura County Fire Protection District website or call (805) 389-9710. Red Flag Warnings and extreme fire weather trigger automatic burn suspensions.
Do gas fire pits need a permit?
Portable propane fire pits generally do not need a permit. Permanent gas fire pits connected to natural gas lines require a building permit.
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