Fire Pit Rules: Castaic vs Palmdale
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Castaic, CA and Palmdale, CA?
Castaic and Palmdale have similar restriction levels.
Castaic, CA
Los Angeles County
Recreational fire pits in unincorporated LA County must comply with South Coast AQMD regulations and LA County Fire Department rules. Open burning requires AQMD approval. Gas/propane fire pits are generally allowed. Wood-burning is restricted on spare-the-air days.
View full Castaic rules →Palmdale, CA
Los Angeles County
Palmdale allows recreational fire pits with conditions. California Fire Code requires 15-foot clearance, 3-foot max diameter. Gas pits have fewer restrictions.
View full Palmdale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Castaic | Palmdale |
|---|---|---|
| Gas/Propane | Generally permitted | - |
| Wood Burning | Subject to AQMD rules | - |
| Spare the Air | No burning on alert days | - |
| Fire Hazard Zones | Additional restrictions may apply | - |
| Clearance | - | 15 feet from structures |
| Max Size | - | 3-foot diameter |
| Gas Pits | - | Fewer restrictions |
| Red Flag | - | Additional restrictions |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Castaic FAQ
Can I have a fire pit in unincorporated LA County?
Yes, but you must follow SCAQMD Rule 444 and LA County Fire requirements: at least 15 feet from structures, max 3 feet diameter, spark screen required, and no burning on no-burn alert days.
What are no-burn days?
SCAQMD declares no-burn days when air quality is poor. Check aqmd.gov or call (866) 966-3293 for current status. Wood-burning fire pits and fireplaces are prohibited on no-burn days.
Are gas fire pits allowed on no-burn days?
Yes. Gas and propane fire pits are exempt from SCAQMD no-burn restrictions since they don't produce wood smoke. They must still meet setback and attendance requirements.
Palmdale FAQ
Can I have a fire pit?
Yes, in approved containers with 15-foot clearance per California Fire Code §307. Check for active fire restrictions.
Are gas fire pits always OK?
Gas/propane fire pits are generally exempt from burn restrictions but verify with Palmdale fire department.
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