Backyard Fires: Fair Oaks vs Folsom
How do backyard fires rules compare between Fair Oaks, CA and Folsom, CA?
Fair Oaks and Folsom have similar restriction levels.
Fair Oaks, CA
Sacramento County
Small recreational backyard fires are allowed in unincorporated Sacramento County when conducted in approved containers with proper clearance, except on SMAQMD no-burn days. Only clean, dry, seasoned firewood may be used.
View full Fair Oaks rules →Folsom, CA
Sacramento County
Backyard recreational fires in Folsom are allowed only in approved portable outdoor fireplaces, chimineas, or fire pits using clean wood or gas. Open ground fires, fire rings, and burning of yard waste are prohibited. All backyard fires are banned during Red Flag Warnings and SMAQMD 'Don't Light Tonight' days.
View full Folsom rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fair Oaks | Folsom |
|---|---|---|
| Container | Noncombustible, under 3 ft | - |
| Clearance | 15 ft from combustibles | - |
| Fuel | Seasoned firewood only | - |
| No-Burn Days | SMAQMD enforced | - |
| Supervision | Attended adult, water on hand | - |
| Allowed | - | Contained pits/chimineas/gas |
| Prohibited | - | Open ground fires, trash |
| Setback | - | 15 ft from combustibles |
| Red Flag | - | All wood fires banned |
| VHFHSZ | - | Seasonal bans possible |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fair Oaks FAQ
Can I burn a fire when Red Flag Warning is in effect?
No. All open recreational burning is prohibited during Red Flag Warnings.
Is a chiminea treated the same as a fire pit?
Yes. SMAQMD and fire code rules apply equally to chimineas, pits, and outdoor fireplaces when burning wood.
Folsom FAQ
Can I have a bonfire in my Folsom backyard?
No — open ground bonfires are prohibited. You may have a contained recreational fire in a UL-listed portable fire pit or chiminea, subject to size and setback rules.
What's a Red Flag Warning and how does it affect my fire pit?
A Red Flag Warning is issued by NWS Sacramento when conditions are extreme for wildfire. All wood-burning backyard fires must be extinguished and not lit until the warning expires.
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