Fire Pit Rules: Fremont vs San Leandro
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Fremont, CA and San Leandro, CA?
Fremont and San Leandro have similar restriction levels.
Fremont, CA
Alameda County
Fremont allows gas and propane fire pits on patios. Wood-burning fire pits are restricted, especially in east foothill VHFHSZ areas near Mission Peak where defensible space rules dominate.
View full Fremont rules →San Leandro, CA
Alameda County
San Leandro fire pits must follow CA Fire Code 307 plus Alameda County Fire Department rules. Max 3 ft diameter, 15 ft setback from structures, attended at all times.
View full San Leandro rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fremont | San Leandro |
|---|---|---|
| Preferred Type | Gas or propane | - |
| Structure Clearance | 10 feet minimum | - |
| Wood Fire Size | 3 ft wide, 2 ft high | - |
| VHFHSZ Restrictions | Stricter in east foothills | - |
| Red Flag Days | No open burning | - |
| Max Size | - | 3 ft diameter |
| Setback | - | 15 ft from structures |
| Authority | - | ACFD + CFC 307 |
| Fuel | - | Clean wood or gas only |
| Spare Air | - | No wood burning |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fremont FAQ
Can I use a chiminea in Fremont?
Yes, propane or gas chimineas are allowed on patios with proper clearance. Wood-burning chimineas follow the same rules as wood fire pits and are discouraged in east foothill VHFHSZ areas.
Do I need a permit for a gas fire pit?
Portable propane units need no permit. Natural gas fire pits plumbed into the home gas line require a plumbing permit from Fremont Building and Safety.
San Leandro FAQ
Can I use a propane fire pit on my patio in San Leandro?
Yes. Propane and natural gas fire pits are allowed with shorter setbacks since they have shutoff valves, but never use them under awnings.
Does San Leandro ban fire pits during Spare the Air days?
Wood-burning fire pits are banned during BAAQMD Spare the Air alerts. Gas pits remain legal.
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