Fire Pit Rules: Elk Grove vs Rancho Cordova
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Elk Grove, CA and Rancho Cordova, CA?
Elk Grove and Rancho Cordova 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 →Rancho Cordova, CA
Sacramento County
Rancho Cordova permits residential fire pits subject to Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District standards and California Fire Code Section 307. Fire pits must be under 3 feet in diameter and set back at least 15 feet from structures, fences, and combustibles. Only clean seasoned firewood is permitted.
View full Rancho Cordova rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Elk Grove | Rancho Cordova |
|---|---|---|
| Setback | 15 ft from structures | 15 feet from structures |
| Max size | 3 ft diameter (CFC §307.4.2) | - |
| Fuel | Seasoned wood, gas, charcoal | Clean seasoned wood only |
| No-burn days | SMAQMD Rule 421 applies | - |
| Enforcement | Cosumnes CSD Fire | - |
| Max Size | - | 3 feet diameter |
| Fire District | - | Sacramento Metro Fire |
| Air District | - | SMAQMD No Burn days apply |
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.
Rancho Cordova FAQ
Do I need a permit for a backyard fire pit in Rancho Cordova?
No permit is required for recreational fire pits that meet CFC Section 307 size and setback standards, but SMAQMD No Burn day restrictions still apply.
Can I use my propane fire pit on a No Burn day?
Yes. SMAQMD burn restrictions apply to solid fuel wood fires, not to natural gas or propane appliances.
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