Backyard Fires: Fontana vs Rancho Cucamonga
How do backyard fires rules compare between Fontana, CA and Rancho Cucamonga, CA?
Fontana and Rancho Cucamonga have similar restriction levels.
Fontana, CA
San Bernardino County
Small recreational backyard fires in Fontana are legal with clean wood, propane, or manufactured logs. Keep 10 feet from structures, keep water handy, and obey SCAQMD no-burn days.
View full Fontana rules →Rancho Cucamonga, CA
San Bernardino County
Backyard recreational fires are allowed in Rancho Cucamonga with proper setbacks, but debris burning is prohibited and foothill VHFHSZ properties face red flag day restrictions.
View full Rancho Cucamonga rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fontana | Rancho Cucamonga |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum fuel area | 3 feet diameter by 2 feet height per Fire Code Sec. 307 | - |
| Structure setback | 10 feet for open pits, 15 feet for portable fireplaces | - |
| Supervision | Adult must remain with the fire until fully extinguished | - |
| Approved fuel | Clean firewood, charcoal, propane, natural gas | - |
| Winter limits | No wood burning on SCAQMD no-burn days | - |
| Allowed | - | Recreational pits, chimineas, gas features, barbecues |
| Prohibited | - | Debris burning, trash, treated wood, yard waste |
| Minimum clearance | - | 10 feet from structures and combustibles |
| Red flag restriction | - | RCFPD can prohibit all open flames in VHFHSZ |
| HOA rules | - | Many foothill HOAs require gas-only fire features |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fontana FAQ
Can I have a backyard fire in Fontana tonight?
Yes if the pit meets setback and supervision rules and, during November through February, the SCAQMD forecast does not declare a no-burn day.
Does my gas fire table count as a regulated fire?
Gas-fueled features meet fire code rules if installed to manufacturer specs and are exempt from SCAQMD Rule 445 wood-burning restrictions.
My neighbor complained about smoke - can SBCoFD shut down my fire?
Yes. Fire officials can order any recreational fire extinguished if it creates a nuisance or health hazard under the California Fire Code.
Rancho Cucamonga FAQ
Can I have a backyard bonfire in Rancho Cucamonga?
Small recreational fires in an approved pit or chiminea are allowed, but large bonfires require an RCFPD special event permit and are typically restricted to non-residential sites.
What smoke nuisance rules apply?
Excessive smoke that crosses property lines can be cited under nuisance and SCAQMD rules. Recurring complaints lead to administrative citations.
Can I roast marshmallows in my Etiwanda backyard?
Yes, in a compliant fire pit or chiminea with 10-foot clearance, on non-red-flag days, using approved fuel. Gas fire features are preferred in the VHFHSZ.
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