Outdoor Burning: Fullerton vs Newport Beach
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Fullerton, CA and Newport Beach, CA?
Fullerton and Newport Beach 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 →Newport Beach, CA
Orange County
Open burning is prohibited in Newport Beach under the South Coast AQMD rules and NBMC Title 9. Outdoor cooking in approved devices is permitted. Beach fires are restricted to designated city fire rings.
View full Newport Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fullerton | Newport Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Open Burning | Prohibited (SCAQMD Rule 444) | Prohibited (SCAQMD district) |
| Wind Limit | No fires if winds >8 MPH | - |
| Red Flag | All outdoor fires prohibited | - |
| Cooking | BBQs generally exempt | - |
| Code Section | FMC §13.20.150 | - |
| BBQ Grills | - | Permitted with clearances |
| Beach Fires | - | Designated fire rings only |
| No-Burn Alerts | - | Check SCAQMD.gov |
| Contact | - | NB Fire (949) 644-3104 |
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.
Newport Beach FAQ
Can I burn yard waste in Newport Beach?
No. Open burning of any kind, including yard waste, is prohibited under SCAQMD rules. Use city green waste collection services instead.
Can I use a charcoal grill?
Yes. Cooking in approved barbecue devices is permitted as long as proper clearances from structures are maintained and it is not a no-burn alert day.
What is a no-burn alert?
SCAQMD issues no-burn alerts during poor air quality days when all recreational fires including fireplaces and fire pits must be extinguished. Check SCAQMD.gov for current status.
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