Fire Pit Rules: Citrus Heights vs Elk Grove
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Citrus Heights, CA and Elk Grove, CA?
Citrus Heights and Elk Grove have similar restriction levels.
Citrus Heights, CA
Sacramento County
Citrus Heights allows portable and permanent fire pits with structure setbacks and burn-day compliance under Sacramento Metro Fire and SMAQMD Rule 421.
View full Citrus Heights 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 | Citrus Heights | Elk Grove |
|---|---|---|
| Structure Setback | 15 feet minimum | - |
| Max Size | 3 feet diameter | - |
| Fuel | Seasoned wood or manufactured logs | Seasoned wood, gas, charcoal |
| Burn Days | Check SMAQMD daily | - |
| Gas Appliances | Exempt from no-burn rules | - |
| Setback | - | 15 ft from structures |
| 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.
Citrus Heights FAQ
Do I have to check a burn status before using my wood fire pit?
Yes. SMAQMD Rule 421 makes wood burning illegal on Check Before You Burn days from November through February.
Are propane fire pits allowed on no-burn days?
Yes. Natural gas and propane devices are exempt from the mandatory curtailment rule.
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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