Backyard Fires: Fullerton vs Garden Grove
How do backyard fires rules compare between Fullerton, CA and Garden Grove, CA?
Fullerton and Garden Grove have similar restriction levels.
Fullerton, CA
Orange County
Fullerton allows recreational backyard fires in approved portable outdoor devices such as chimineas, fire bowls, and portable fire pits under the South Coast Air Quality Management District rules and the California Fire Code. Open burning of yard waste and trash is prohibited year-round.
View full Fullerton rules →Garden Grove, CA
Orange County
Garden Grove allows recreational backyard fires in approved portable devices under OCFA regulations. Fires must be contained in a manufactured fire pit or chiminea with spark arrester, located at least 15 feet from structures and combustible materials. Open ground fires and burning of yard waste are prohibited in Garden Grove. SCAQMD no-burn days must be observed.
View full Garden Grove rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fullerton | Garden Grove |
|---|---|---|
| Recreational Fires | Allowed in approved portable devices | - |
| Setback | 15 feet from structures | - |
| Open Burning | Prohibited year-round | - |
| No-Burn Days | SCAQMD restricts Nov-Feb | Must check SCAQMD Rule 444 |
| Fire Department | (714) 738-6500 | - |
| Setback from Structures | - | 15 feet minimum |
| Container Required | - | Manufactured pit with spark arrester |
| Max Fire Size | - | 3 ft diameter, 2 ft height |
| OCFA | - | (714) 573-6000 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fullerton FAQ
Can I have a fire pit in my backyard in Fullerton?
Yes, you can use an approved portable fire pit, chiminea, or fire bowl. The fire must be at least 15 feet from structures, constantly attended, and have a means of extinguishment nearby. Use dry seasoned wood or gas.
Can I burn leaves or yard waste in Fullerton?
No. Open burning of yard waste, trash, or debris is prohibited year-round in Fullerton under SCAQMD rules and the California Fire Code. Use the city's green waste collection service instead.
What are SCAQMD no-burn days in Fullerton?
During the winter months, typically November through February, SCAQMD may declare no-burn days when air quality is poor. On these days, wood-burning in outdoor fire devices is restricted. Check SCAQMD.gov for current no-burn status.
Garden Grove FAQ
Can I have a fire pit in my backyard in Garden Grove?
Yes. Manufactured portable fire pits and chimineas with spark arresters are allowed. They must be at least 15 feet from structures and fences, attended at all times, and not used on SCAQMD no-burn days.
Can I burn yard waste in my backyard in Garden Grove?
No. Open burning of yard waste, trash, and debris is prohibited in Garden Grove. Only clean dry wood or manufactured fire logs may be used in approved portable fire devices.
What are SCAQMD no-burn days?
The South Coast Air Quality Management District declares mandatory no-burn days during winter months when air quality is poor. All recreational burning is prohibited on these days. Check aqmd.gov or call 1-866-966-3293.
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