Fire Pit Rules: Elk Grove vs Folsom
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Elk Grove, CA and Folsom, CA?
Elk Grove and Folsom have similar restriction levels.
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 →Folsom, CA
Sacramento County
Folsom allows residential fire pits with restrictions under CA Fire Code §307 and Folsom Fire Department rules. Pits must be 15+ feet from structures, maximum 3 ft diameter, use only seasoned firewood, and comply with Sacramento Metropolitan AQMD Rule 421 wood burning restrictions on 'Don't Light Tonight' days.
View full Folsom rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Elk Grove | Folsom |
|---|---|---|
| Setback | 15 ft from structures | 15 ft from structures |
| Max size | 3 ft diameter (CFC §307.4.2) | - |
| Fuel | Seasoned wood, gas, charcoal | Seasoned firewood only |
| No-burn days | SMAQMD Rule 421 applies | - |
| Enforcement | Cosumnes CSD Fire | - |
| Max Size | - | 3 ft diameter |
| Air District | - | SMAQMD Rule 421 |
| Supervision | - | Adult + extinguisher required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Folsom FAQ
Can I use my fire pit on winter nights in Folsom?
Only if SMAQMD has not declared a 'Don't Light Tonight' wood-burning episode. Check sparetheair.com before lighting November through February.
Does a propane fire pit count?
Propane and natural gas fire features are generally exempt from SMAQMD wood-burning restrictions but still must maintain the 15-foot structure setback.
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