Backyard Fires: Costa Mesa vs Fullerton
How do backyard fires rules compare between Costa Mesa, CA and Fullerton, CA?
Costa Mesa and Fullerton have similar restriction levels.
Costa Mesa, CA
Orange County
Costa Mesa allows recreational fires in backyards using approved portable fire pits, chimineas, and cooking fires under SCAQMD and local fire code restrictions. Open burning of yard waste is prohibited. Fires must be attended and extinguished safely.
View full Costa Mesa rules →Fullerton, CA
Orange County
Fullerton allows recreational backyard fires in approved portable outdoor devices such as chimineas, fire bowls, and portable fire pits under the South Coast Air Quality Management District rules and the California Fire Code. Open burning of yard waste and trash is prohibited year-round.
View full Fullerton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Fullerton |
|---|---|---|
| Allowed Devices | Portable fire pits, chimineas, gas | - |
| Setback | 15 ft from structures minimum | 15 feet from structures |
| Yard Waste Burning | Prohibited (SCAQMD Rule 444) | - |
| No-Burn Days | SCAQMD mandatory alerts apply | SCAQMD restricts Nov-Feb |
| Fire Dept | (714) 754-5106 | - |
| Recreational Fires | - | Allowed in approved portable devices |
| Open Burning | - | Prohibited year-round |
| Fire Department | - | (714) 738-6500 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Costa Mesa FAQ
Can I have a fire pit in my Costa Mesa backyard?
Yes. Manufactured portable fire pits, chimineas, and gas fire features are allowed. Keep them at least 15 feet from structures and always attended.
Can I burn leaves or yard waste in Costa Mesa?
No. Open burning of yard waste is prohibited under SCAQMD Rule 444. Use city green waste collection instead.
What about no-burn days in Costa Mesa?
SCAQMD issues mandatory no-burn alerts during poor air quality days. Wood-burning fires are prohibited during these alerts. Check SCAQMD.gov for current status.
Fullerton FAQ
Can I have a fire pit in my backyard in Fullerton?
Yes, you can use an approved portable fire pit, chiminea, or fire bowl. The fire must be at least 15 feet from structures, constantly attended, and have a means of extinguishment nearby. Use dry seasoned wood or gas.
Can I burn leaves or yard waste in Fullerton?
No. Open burning of yard waste, trash, or debris is prohibited year-round in Fullerton under SCAQMD rules and the California Fire Code. Use the city's green waste collection service instead.
What are SCAQMD no-burn days in Fullerton?
During the winter months, typically November through February, SCAQMD may declare no-burn days when air quality is poor. On these days, wood-burning in outdoor fire devices is restricted. Check SCAQMD.gov for current no-burn status.
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