Outdoor Burning: Fullerton vs Irvine
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Fullerton, CA and Irvine, CA?
Fullerton and Irvine have similar restriction levels.
Fullerton, CA
Orange County
Fullerton prohibits outdoor open burning and recreational fires when winds exceed 8 MPH or during Red Flag conditions under FMC Section 13.20.150. Open burning of yard waste and trash is banned under SCAQMD Rule 444.
View full Fullerton rules →Irvine, CA
Orange County
Open burning is prohibited in Irvine under IMC Title 4, Division 4 and SCAQMD Rule 444. Recreational fires in approved fire pits are permitted with conditions. All outdoor fires are prohibited during SCAQMD no-burn days and hazardous weather.
View full Irvine rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fullerton | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Open Burning | Prohibited (SCAQMD Rule 444) | Prohibited |
| Wind Limit | No fires if winds >8 MPH | - |
| Red Flag | All outdoor fires prohibited | - |
| Cooking | BBQs generally exempt | - |
| Code Section | FMC §13.20.150 | - |
| Fire Pits | - | Allowed with conditions |
| Clearance | - | 15 ft from structures |
| No-Burn Days | - | All fires prohibited |
| Balcony Grills | - | Gas/propane only, no charcoal |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fullerton FAQ
Can I burn leaves or yard waste in Fullerton?
No. Open burning of yard waste, trash, and debris is prohibited under SCAQMD Rule 444 throughout the South Coast Air Basin.
When can't I have any outdoor fire in Fullerton?
Outdoor fires are prohibited when sustained winds exceed 8 MPH, during Red Flag conditions, and on SCAQMD no-burn days.
Can I use my barbecue during a Red Flag warning?
Charcoal and gas barbecues for cooking are generally exempt from recreational fire restrictions but check current fire authority advisories during extreme conditions.
Irvine FAQ
Can I have a fire pit in my Irvine backyard?
Yes, recreational fires in approved manufactured fire pits are allowed if at least 15 feet from structures, attended at all times, and not during no-burn days.
Can I use a charcoal grill on my apartment balcony?
No. Only propane or natural gas grills with hoses of 10 feet or less are permitted on combustible balconies.
Compare other topics
See how Fullerton and Irvine compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool