Backyard Fires: Castro Valley vs Livermore
How do backyard fires rules compare between Castro Valley, CA and Livermore, CA?
Livermore has fewer restrictions than Castro Valley.
Castro Valley, CA
Alameda County
Recreational fires in Alameda County are regulated by BAAQMD Regulation 6 Rule 3 (wood-burning) and fire code Section 307. Fire pits must use clean seasoned wood or natural gas/propane, be 25 feet from structures, and are prohibited during Spare the Air alerts.
View full Castro Valley rules →Livermore, CA
Alameda County
Recreational backyard fires in Livermore must be under 3 ft diameter, 15 ft from structures, attended at all times, and paused on Spare the Air days.
View full Livermore rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Castro Valley | Livermore |
|---|---|---|
| Wood burn alerts | Banned Nov 1 - Feb 28 | - |
| Size limit | 3 ft dia / 2 ft high | - |
| Setback open pit | 25 feet from structure | - |
| Setback contained | 15 feet typical | - |
| Gas/propane | Exempt from Spare the Air | - |
| Max Size | - | 3 ft diameter |
| Setback | - | 15 ft structures |
| Attendance | - | Required always |
| Fuel | - | Seasoned wood only |
| Spare the Air | - | No burning |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Castro Valley FAQ
Can I use my propane fire pit on a Spare the Air day?
Yes. BAAQMD wood-burning bans do not apply to natural gas and propane fire features under Rule 3.
Are backyard fires allowed during red flag warnings?
In VHFHSZ areas, fire agencies may prohibit all open flame including fire pits during red flag conditions. Check with Alameda County Fire before burning.
Livermore FAQ
Can I burn on a red flag warning day?
No. LPFD may prohibit all open burning including recreational fires during red flag warnings or extreme fire weather.
Is a propane fire table treated the same as a wood pit?
No. Gas fire features are exempt from Spare the Air wood-burning bans, though setbacks still apply and they should remain attended.
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