Fire Pit Rules: Hayward vs San Leandro
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Hayward, CA and San Leandro, CA?
Hayward and San Leandro have similar restriction levels.
Hayward, CA
Alameda County
Hayward allows propane and natural gas fire pits; wood-burning outdoor fire pits are heavily restricted under BAAQMD Spare the Air rules and fire code.
View full Hayward rules →San Leandro, CA
Alameda County
San Leandro fire pits must follow CA Fire Code 307 plus Alameda County Fire Department rules. Max 3 ft diameter, 15 ft setback from structures, attended at all times.
View full San Leandro rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Hayward | San Leandro |
|---|---|---|
| Gas pits | Allowed year-round | - |
| Clearance | 10 ft from combustibles | - |
| Wood burning | Banned on Spare the Air days | - |
| Supervision | Adult required | - |
| VHFHSZ caution | East Hayward hills | - |
| Max Size | - | 3 ft diameter |
| Setback | - | 15 ft from structures |
| Authority | - | ACFD + CFC 307 |
| Fuel | - | Clean wood or gas only |
| Spare Air | - | No wood burning |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Hayward FAQ
Do I need a permit for a propane fire pit?
No permit is required for commercially manufactured gas fire pits used recreationally at a single-family home.
How do I check for a Spare the Air alert?
Visit baaqmd.gov or sign up for alerts; burning wood is illegal on those days.
San Leandro FAQ
Can I use a propane fire pit on my patio in San Leandro?
Yes. Propane and natural gas fire pits are allowed with shorter setbacks since they have shutoff valves, but never use them under awnings.
Does San Leandro ban fire pits during Spare the Air days?
Wood-burning fire pits are banned during BAAQMD Spare the Air alerts. Gas pits remain legal.
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