Outdoor Burning: Fontana vs Rancho Cucamonga
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Fontana, CA and Rancho Cucamonga, CA?
Fontana and Rancho Cucamonga have similar restriction levels.
Fontana, CA
San Bernardino County
Open burning of leaves, yard waste, and trash is banned in Fontana under SCAQMD Rule 444. Only small recreational campfires, grills, and gas fires are allowed, subject to Rule 445 no-burn days.
View full Fontana rules →Rancho Cucamonga, CA
San Bernardino County
Open burning of vegetation or debris is prohibited in Rancho Cucamonga. Only recreational cooking fires, permitted ceremonial fires, and approved gas appliances are allowed under SCAQMD and RCFPD rules.
View full Rancho Cucamonga rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fontana | Rancho Cucamonga |
|---|---|---|
| Open burning status | Banned for leaves, trash, and yard waste under SCAQMD Rule 444 | - |
| Recreational fires | Small campfires and grills allowed with 10 foot clearance | - |
| Check Before You Burn | SCAQMD Rule 445 no-burn days Nov 1 to last day of February | - |
| Gas fires | Allowed year-round, exempt from Rule 445 | - |
| Enforcement | SBCoFD, SCAQMD inspectors, Fontana Code Enforcement | - |
| Residential debris burning | - | Prohibited, no permits issued in SCAQMD basin |
| Recreational cooking | - | Allowed per Fire Code 307 with 10 ft clearance |
| Burn barrels | - | Prohibited citywide |
| Red flag days | - | RCFPD may ban all open flames in foothill areas |
| Yard waste disposal | - | Burrtec green cart, not burning |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fontana FAQ
Can I burn leaves and yard waste in Fontana?
No. SCAQMD Rule 444 and Fontana fire regulations prohibit burning landscape debris - leaves and clippings must be placed in the green waste cart.
Is a small campfire legal in my Fontana backyard?
Yes for small recreational fires in a proper pit with clean wood, 10-foot clearance, and supervision - but check the SCAQMD Check Before You Burn status during winter.
How do I check if today is a no-burn day?
Visit aqmd.gov or call the SCAQMD Check Before You Burn hotline; the forecast updates daily November through February.
Rancho Cucamonga FAQ
Can I burn palm fronds or tumbleweeds in my yard?
No. All vegetation and debris burning is prohibited. Place palm fronds in green waste or arrange a bulky pickup with Burrtec.
Can I have a bonfire in Alta Loma?
Only with an RCFPD ceremonial or special event permit, and never on red flag warning days. Recreational fire pits under Fire Code 307 are allowed with proper setbacks.
Who regulates air quality in Rancho Cucamonga?
The South Coast Air Quality Management District covers the entire Inland Empire. Call 1-800-CUT-SMOG to report excessive smoke or illegal burning.
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