Outdoor Burning: Downey vs Long Beach
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Downey, CA and Long Beach, CA?
Downey has fewer restrictions than Long Beach.
Downey, CA
Los Angeles County
Downey Municipal Code Chapter 3 (Fire Code) requires permits for recreational fires. Open burning is restricted by SCAQMD rules. Fires are prohibited before 7 AM and after 10 PM Sunday-Thursday or midnight Friday-Saturday.
View full Downey rules →Long Beach, CA
Los Angeles County
Open burning is heavily restricted in Long Beach. South Coast AQMD regulates all outdoor burning. Wood burning may be banned on Spare the Air days.
View full Long Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Downey | Long Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | Art. V, Ch. 3 (Fire Code) | - |
| Permit Required | Yes, from Fire Dept. | - |
| Weekday Cutoff | 7 AM start; 10 PM end (Sun-Thu) | - |
| Weekend Cutoff | 7 AM start; midnight end (Fri-Sat) | - |
| No-Burn Days | SCAQMD designated days | - |
| Fire Dept | (562) 904-7345 | - |
| Regulator | - | SCAQMD + LBFD |
| Trash Burning | - | Prohibited |
| Spare the Air | - | Wood burning banned on no-burn days |
| Red Flag | - | All outdoor burning prohibited |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Downey FAQ
Can I have a fire pit in Downey?
Yes, but you need a permit from the Downey Fire Department. Fires are allowed after 7 AM and must end by 10 PM on weeknights or midnight on Friday/Saturday. No fires on SCAQMD no-burn days.
Can I burn yard waste in Downey?
No. Open burning of yard waste is prohibited by SCAQMD Rule 444. All green waste must be disposed of through regular waste collection.
Long Beach FAQ
Can I burn yard waste in my backyard in Long Beach?
Open burning is heavily restricted in Long Beach. South Coast AQMD regulates all outdoor burning. Wood burning may be banned on Spare the Air days.
Do I need a permit for outdoor burning in Long Beach?
Regulator: SCAQMD + LBFD. Trash Burning: Prohibited. Spare the Air: Wood burning banned on no-burn days. Red Flag: All outdoor burning prohibited.
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