Fire Pit Rules: Fontana vs Ontario
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Fontana, CA and Ontario, CA?
Fontana and Ontario have similar restriction levels.
Fontana, CA
San Bernardino County
Fontana allows residential fire pits under the California Fire Code, but pits must be 10 feet from structures and SCAQMD Rule 445 limits wood burning on winter no-burn days.
View full Fontana rules →Ontario, CA
San Bernardino County
Ontario allows backyard fire pits under the California Fire Code as adopted. Wood pits must sit 25 feet from structures and be attended. SCAQMD no-burn days override local rules.
View full Ontario rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fontana | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Setback from structures | Minimum 10 feet under California Fire Code Sec. 307 | - |
| Extinguishing source | Charged hose or 4-A extinguisher required on site | - |
| Air quality check | SCAQMD Rule 445 no-burn days Nov 1 to end of February | - |
| Approved fuel | Propane, natural gas, or Rule 445 compliant manufactured logs | - |
| Prohibited fuel | Trash, painted or treated wood, yard waste, construction debris | - |
| Code | - | CA Fire Code Chapter 3 as adopted |
| Setback | - | 25 feet from structures |
| Fuel | - | Clean seasoned wood or gas only |
| Attendance | - | Adult with extinguisher required |
| Air quality | - | SCAQMD no-burn days override |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fontana FAQ
Can I burn wood in my Fontana backyard fire pit?
Only on days the SCAQMD forecast does not declare a no-burn day between November and February, and the pit must meet all Fire Code setback and supervision rules.
Do I need a permit for a residential fire pit?
No permit is needed for standard portable or masonry pits used recreationally, but built-in gas fire features tied to a gas line require a plumbing permit from Fontana Building and Safety.
Who enforces fire pit rules in Fontana?
The San Bernardino County Fire Protection District responds to complaints and can order a fire extinguished; Fontana Code Enforcement handles repeated nuisance smoke.
Ontario FAQ
Can I use a wood fire pit in my Ontario backyard?
Yes, if it burns only clean seasoned wood, stays 25 feet from structures, is attended by an adult, and is not used on a SCAQMD no-burn day.
Do propane fire pits have the same setback?
Listed gas appliances can sit closer per the manufacturer instructions, typically as little as a few feet from combustibles.
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