Backyard Fires: Clovis vs Fresno
How do backyard fires rules compare between Clovis, CA and Fresno, CA?
Clovis has fewer restrictions than Fresno.
Clovis, CA
Fresno County
Clovis allows recreational backyard fires in approved portable devices such as fire pits, chimineas, and outdoor fireplaces. Fires must burn only clean dry wood or charcoal and must be attended at all times. All backyard fires are prohibited during SJVAPCD Spare the Air days.
View full Clovis rules →Fresno, CA
Fresno County
Pure recreational wood fires in Fresno backyards are prohibited because SJVAPCD Rule 4103 bans open burning of natural material and the California Fire Code only allows cooking and warming fires. Gas fire pits, BBQs, and chimineas used for cooking are allowed with 25-foot clearance from structures and combustible materials.
View full Fresno rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Clovis | Fresno |
|---|---|---|
| Approved Devices | Fire pits, chimineas, fireplaces | - |
| Fuel | Clean dry wood or charcoal only | - |
| Setback | 15 ft from structures | - |
| Attendance | Must be attended at all times | - |
| No-Burn Days | All recreational fires prohibited | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Clovis FAQ
Can I have a fire pit in my Clovis backyard?
Yes, portable manufactured fire pits are allowed. Place them at least 15 feet from structures and fences, burn only clean dry wood or charcoal, and keep a hose or extinguisher nearby.
Can I use my fire pit on a Spare the Air day?
No. All recreational burning including fire pits and chimineas is prohibited during SJVAPCD Spare the Air and Check Before You Burn days.
Fresno FAQ
Can I have a gas fire pit in my Fresno backyard?
Yes. Propane or natural gas fire pits are allowed as long as they are 15-25 feet from structures, overhangs, and combustible vegetation. They are also exempt from SJVAPCD no-burn day rules.
Is a chiminea legal in Fresno?
Yes if used as a cooking appliance with a spark arrester and 25-foot clearance. Pure recreational wood burning in chimineas is restricted by SJVAPCD Rule 4103 on open burning.
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