Backyard Fires: Folsom vs Rancho Cordova
How do backyard fires rules compare between Folsom, CA and Rancho Cordova, CA?
Folsom and Rancho Cordova have similar restriction levels.
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 →Rancho Cordova, CA
Sacramento County
Backyard recreational fires in Rancho Cordova must comply with Metro Fire and California Fire Code standards and are subject to SMAQMD No Burn day restrictions. Fires must be attended, extinguishing means kept nearby, and only clean seasoned wood used.
View full Rancho Cordova rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Folsom | Rancho Cordova |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Max Diameter | - | 3 feet |
| Open Pile Setback | - | 25 feet |
| Contained Setback | - | 15 feet |
| Supervision | - | Adult must attend |
| Fuel | - | Clean seasoned wood only |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Rancho Cordova FAQ
Can I have a bonfire in my backyard?
Small recreational fires under 3 feet in diameter are allowed with proper setbacks. Larger bonfires require Metro Fire approval and are generally not permitted in residential yards.
What counts as clean seasoned wood?
Natural cordwood that has been dried for at least six months. Painted, treated, or pressure-treated wood and yard waste are prohibited.
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