Fire Pit Rules: Carmichael vs Elk Grove
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Carmichael, CA and Elk Grove, CA?
Carmichael and Elk Grove have similar restriction levels.
Carmichael, CA
Sacramento County
Unincorporated Sacramento County allows backyard fire pits subject to California Fire Code and SMAQMD rules. Fire pits must be 3 ft or smaller, burn only clean seasoned wood or propane, and sit at least 15 ft from structures, fences, and combustible vegetation.
View full Carmichael rules →Elk Grove, CA
Sacramento County
Elk Grove allows backyard fire pits under California Fire Code adopted by the Cosumnes Community Services District Fire Department. Fire pits must be at least 15 feet from structures and combustibles, under 3 feet in diameter, and constantly attended. Wood smoke is restricted on SMAQMD Check Before You Burn days.
View full Elk Grove rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Carmichael | Elk Grove |
|---|---|---|
| Max Size | 3 ft diameter, 2 ft tall | - |
| Setback | 15 ft from structures and fences | 15 ft from structures |
| Fuel | Seasoned wood or propane only | Seasoned wood, gas, charcoal |
| No-Burn Days | SMAQMD Spare the Air enforced | - |
| Supervision | Attended with water source | - |
| Max size | - | 3 ft diameter (CFC §307.4.2) |
| No-burn days | - | SMAQMD Rule 421 applies |
| Enforcement | - | Cosumnes CSD Fire |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Carmichael FAQ
Can I use my backyard fire pit on a Spare the Air day?
No. SMAQMD Rule 421 prohibits wood burning in open pits on declared no-burn days. Propane fire tables remain allowed.
Do I need a permit for a backyard fire pit?
No permit is required for residential recreational fires under 3 feet in diameter, but you must comply with setback and fuel rules.
Elk Grove FAQ
Can I use my wood fire pit year-round in Elk Grove?
Not on Check Before You Burn no-burn days declared by SMAQMD (typically Nov 1 to Feb 28). Natural gas fire pits are exempt.
Do I need a permit for a backyard fire pit?
No permit is required for a compliant residential recreational fire pit, but it must meet the 15-foot setback and size limits.
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