Backyard Fires: Hayward vs San Leandro
How do backyard fires rules compare between Hayward, CA and San Leandro, CA?
Hayward and San Leandro have similar restriction levels.
Hayward, CA
Alameda County
Small recreational fires are allowed in approved containers under 3 feet wide with 25-foot clearance, except on Spare the Air days.
View full Hayward rules →San Leandro, CA
Alameda County
Backyard recreational fires in San Leandro are allowed in approved pits under 3 ft diameter with 15 ft setback, banned on Spare the Air days.
View full San Leandro rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Hayward | San Leandro |
|---|---|---|
| Max size | 3 ft wide, 2 ft high | - |
| Clearance | 25 ft from structures | - |
| Fuel | Clean firewood or charcoal | - |
| Banned days | Spare the Air, red flag | - |
| Supervision | Adult with hose | - |
| Allowed Fuel | - | Clean dry firewood |
| Attendance | - | Required at all times |
| Setback | - | 15 ft structures |
| Spare Air | - | No wood fires |
| Extinguisher | - | Must be on hand |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Hayward FAQ
Do gas fire pits count as recreational fires?
Gas appliances are exempt from the 3-foot rule but still require 10-foot clearance from combustibles.
Can I burn pine cones or leaves?
No. Only clean firewood or charcoal; leaves and yard waste are prohibited fuel.
San Leandro FAQ
Can I have a chiminea or fire bowl in my San Leandro backyard?
Yes. Manufactured chimineas and bowls are allowed with the same 15 ft setback, provided you burn only clean wood and check Spare the Air status.
Who enforces this in San Leandro?
San Leandro code enforcement at (510) 577-3394 handles most complaints. Alameda County agencies handle regional issues.
Compare other topics
See how Hayward and San Leandro 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