Backyard Fires: Hesperia vs Ontario
How do backyard fires rules compare between Hesperia, CA and Ontario, CA?
Ontario has fewer restrictions than Hesperia.
Hesperia, CA
San Bernardino County
Backyard recreational fires in unincorporated San Bernardino County must comply with California Fire Code Section 307: portable fire pits must be at least 15 feet from structures (3 feet for containers under 1 cubic foot), use clean dry wood only, be attended at all times, and have water/extinguisher ready. All fires prohibited on Red Flag days and in designated fire-restricted areas.
View full Hesperia rules →Ontario, CA
San Bernardino County
Ontario backyard fires are limited to small wood fires in approved pits or gas appliances. Burning of leaves, trash, or debris is banned under SCAQMD Rule 444 and the adopted California Fire Code.
View full Ontario rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Hesperia | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Clearance | 15 ft from structures | - |
| Small Device | 3 ft clearance | - |
| Max Size | 3 ft diameter / 2 ft high | - |
| Red Flag | No burns allowed | - |
| Fuel | Clean dry wood only | - |
| Code authority | - | CFC 307 as adopted |
| Setback | - | 25 feet from structures |
| Pile size | - | Under 3 ft wide and 2 ft high |
| Attendance | - | Adult with extinguisher required |
| Bans | - | Trash, leaves, debris, no-burn days |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Hesperia FAQ
Can I have a backyard fire pit in unincorporated San Bernardino County?
Yes, with California Fire Code 307 compliance: 15 feet from structures (3 feet for small devices under 1 cu ft fuel area), clean dry wood only, attended at all times, water/extinguisher present, and never during a Red Flag warning or in designated fire restriction zones.
Are propane fire pits treated differently?
Yes. Propane and natural gas fire pits are generally allowed without a permit and have lower clearance requirements because they have no embers or sparks. They are often permitted during periods when wood burns are suspended, though local fire district rules in high-hazard zones can vary.
Ontario FAQ
Can I have a small bonfire with friends in Ontario?
Only if the fire is inside an approved pit or portable fireplace burning clean wood, stays 25 feet from structures, and is attended by a sober adult with water nearby.
What about a propane fire table on a patio?
Listed propane appliances are allowed and can sit much closer to structures per the manufacturer instructions, and they are not suspended by SCAQMD no-burn days.
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