Backyard Fires: Castro Valley vs San Leandro
How do backyard fires rules compare between Castro Valley, CA and San Leandro, CA?
San Leandro 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 →San Leandro, CA
Alameda County
Backyard recreational fires in San Leandro are allowed in approved pits under 3 ft diameter with 15 ft setback, banned on Spare the Air days.
View full San Leandro rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Castro Valley | San Leandro |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Allowed Fuel | - | Clean dry firewood |
| Attendance | - | Required at all times |
| Setback | - | 15 ft structures |
| Spare Air | - | No wood fires |
| Extinguisher | - | Must be on hand |
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.
San Leandro FAQ
Can I have a chiminea or fire bowl in my San Leandro backyard?
Yes. Manufactured chimineas and bowls are allowed with the same 15 ft setback, provided you burn only clean wood and check Spare the Air status.
Who enforces this in San Leandro?
San Leandro code enforcement at (510) 577-3394 handles most complaints. Alameda County agencies handle regional issues.
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