Outdoor Burning: Fresno vs Selma

Open burning of yard waste, leaves, and trash is prohibited in Fresno year-round under SJVAPCD Rule 4103 and FMC Chapter 15. Recreational campfires are prohibited in residential yards. Only approved cooking appliances (gas or charcoal BBQ, outdoor fireplace with spark arrester) are allowed. San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District's Rule 4901 Check Before You Burn program also restricts woodburning fireplaces on declared no-burn days.

Selma prohibits outdoor burning within city limits under Title VII, Chapter 7 of the Selma Municipal Code, specifically SMC 7-7-1 (Burning Prohibited). This prohibition applies to the burning of refuse, yard waste, leaves, construction debris, agricultural waste, and any other combustible materials on both residential and commercial properties throughout the city. The ban is reinforced by the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District (SJVAPCD) Rule 4103, which independently prohibits residential open burning across Fresno County and the entire San Joaquin Valley air basin due to the region's severe air quality challenges with particulate matter. Selma's location in the Central Valley makes air quality a persistent public health concern, and outdoor burning is one of the activities most strictly regulated. The Selma Fire Department enforces the local burning prohibition, while the SJVAPCD independently enforces air quality violations. Residents must use alternative disposal methods such as curbside green waste collection, composting, or hauling materials to approved disposal facilities. Barbecues and cooking appliances that use charcoal, propane, or natural gas remain exempt from these prohibitions when used exclusively for food preparation.