Backyard Fires: Elk Grove vs Isleton
How do backyard fires rules compare between Elk Grove, CA and Isleton, CA?
Elk Grove and Isleton have similar restriction levels.
Elk Grove, CA
Sacramento County
Recreational backyard fires are allowed in Elk Grove when confined to approved fire pits or portable outdoor fireplaces burning clean fuel. Burning yard waste or trash is prohibited, and wood fires are banned on SMAQMD no-burn days.
View full Elk Grove rules →Isleton, CA
Sacramento County
Backyard recreational fires are allowed in most unincorporated Sacramento County under Sacramento Metro Fire's California Fire Code rules - 3 feet by 2 feet maximum, 25 feet of clearance, constantly attended, with extinguishing equipment on hand. Burning trash, leaves, or yard waste in the backyard is prohibited by Sac Metro Air District, and no-burn days apply in winter.
View full Isleton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Elk Grove | Isleton |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel allowed | Seasoned wood, charcoal, gas | - |
| Setback | 15 ft from structures | - |
| Attended | Required at all times | - |
| Trash burning | Prohibited | - |
| Override | SMAQMD no-burn days | - |
| Recreational backyard fire | - | Allowed (3 ft x 2 ft, 25 ft clearance, attended) |
| Extinguisher on site | - | Min. 4-A rated or hose/water/sand (CFC 307.5) |
| Burning trash/leaves/yard waste | - | Prohibited year-round (Sac Metro Air District) |
| Manufactured fire bowl/chiminea | - | Generally no permit; in-ground pit/bonfire needs permit |
| Winter no-burn days | - | Nov 1 - end of Feb (Rule 421) |
| Fire season / Red Flag | - | Fires may be suspended |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Elk Grove FAQ
Can I have a backyard bonfire in Elk Grove?
Only small recreational fires in approved pits or portable fireplaces. Large open bonfires are not permitted.
Is a propane fire table OK on no-burn days?
Yes. SMAQMD Rule 421 applies only to wood combustion.
Isleton FAQ
Can I have a backyard fire in unincorporated Sacramento County?
Yes, a small recreational wood or charcoal fire is allowed under Sac Metro Fire's rules: 3 feet by 2 feet maximum, 25 feet of clearance, constantly attended, with extinguishing equipment ready. You cannot burn trash, leaves, or yard waste.
Can I burn leaves or branches in my backyard fire?
No. Burning leaves, yard trimmings, and household waste is prohibited year-round by the Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District. Only clean firewood for a recreational fire is allowed.
Do I need a permit for a backyard fire?
An approved manufactured fire bowl or chiminea used per instructions generally needs no permit, but a temporary in-ground fire pit or ceremonial bonfire requires a Sac Metro Fire burn permit.
Are there days I cannot have a backyard wood fire?
Yes. On no-burn days declared November 1 through the end of February under Sac Metro Air District Rule 421, wood burning is restricted, and fires may be suspended during fire season or Red Flag Warnings.
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