Backyard Fires: Costa Mesa vs Newport Beach
How do backyard fires rules compare between Costa Mesa, CA and Newport Beach, CA?
Costa Mesa and Newport Beach 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 →Newport Beach, CA
Orange County
Newport Beach allows recreational fires in backyards using portable devices such as chimineas and fire bowls, subject to NBMC and SCAQMD no-burn day restrictions. Fires must be small, contained, and at safe distances from structures and vegetation.
View full Newport Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Newport Beach |
|---|---|---|
| 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 mandatory compliance |
| Fire Dept | (714) 754-5106 | - |
| Device Required | - | Portable, manufactured only |
| Size Limit | - | 3 ft diameter, 2 ft height |
| NB Fire | - | (949) 644-3104 |
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.
Newport Beach FAQ
Can I have a fire pit in my backyard?
Yes, using approved portable devices like chimineas or manufactured fire bowls. Open bonfires are prohibited on private property.
Are there days I cannot have a fire?
Yes. SCAQMD mandatory no-burn days, typically November through February, prohibit all wood-burning including recreational fires.
How far must a fire be from my house?
At least 15 feet from structures, overhanging branches, and property lines. A garden hose or fire extinguisher must be nearby.
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