Outdoor Burning: Fullerton vs Santa Ana
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Fullerton, CA and Santa Ana, CA?
Fullerton and Santa Ana 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 →Santa Ana, CA
Orange County
Open burning is prohibited in Santa Ana under SAMC Chapter 14 and South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Rule 444. Recreational fires in approved fire pits may be permitted subject to OCFA regulations and air quality restrictions.
View full Santa Ana rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fullerton | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Recreational Fire Pits | - | Allowed with conditions |
| Clearance from Structures | - | 15 ft minimum |
| Air Quality Rule | - | SCAQMD Rule 444 |
| No-Burn Days | - | All fires prohibited |
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.
Santa Ana FAQ
Can I have a fire pit in my backyard in Santa Ana?
Yes, recreational fires in approved manufactured fire pits are permitted provided the fire is at least 15 feet from any structure, attended at all times, and not during SCAQMD no-burn days.
Can I burn yard waste in Santa Ana?
No. All open burning including yard waste is prohibited under SCAQMD Rule 444 and SAMC Chapter 14.
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