Fire Pit Rules: Hesperia vs Ontario
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Hesperia, CA and Ontario, CA?
Hesperia and Ontario have similar restriction levels.
Hesperia, CA
San Bernardino County
Hesperia permits portable fire pits and outdoor fireplaces fueled by clean dry wood, propane, or natural gas, with clearance from structures and fuels per California Fire Code (adopted under HMC Title 15). All open fires (except propane/natural gas) must be extinguished during adverse weather or when ordered by San Bernardino County Fire personnel.
View full Hesperia rules →Ontario, CA
San Bernardino County
Ontario allows backyard fire pits under the California Fire Code as adopted. Wood pits must sit 25 feet from structures and be attended. SCAQMD no-burn days override local rules.
View full Ontario rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Hesperia | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Authority | California Fire Code §307 (adopted by HMC Title 15) | - |
| Recreational Fire Clearance | 25 ft from structures (3-ft pile max) | - |
| Portable Fireplace Clearance | 15 ft from structures | - |
| Approved Fuel | Clean wood, charcoal, propane, natural gas | - |
| Adverse Weather Rule | All open fires must be extinguished (SB County Fire) | - |
| Code | - | CA Fire Code Chapter 3 as adopted |
| Setback | - | 25 feet from structures |
| Fuel | - | Clean seasoned wood or gas only |
| Attendance | - | Adult with extinguisher required |
| Air quality | - | SCAQMD no-burn days override |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Hesperia FAQ
Can I have a fire pit in Hesperia?
Yes. Portable fire pits and outdoor fireplaces are allowed under the California Fire Code adopted by Hesperia, provided you maintain 25 ft of clearance from structures (15 ft for portable fireplaces) and burn only clean wood, propane, or natural gas.
What can I burn in my fire pit?
Only clean dry firewood, charcoal, propane, or natural gas. MDAQMD Rule 444 prohibits burning trash, treated wood, yard waste, and construction debris in any open outdoor fire.
Do I have to put out my fire on windy days?
Yes. San Bernardino County Fire requires that all open fires (other than propane or natural gas) be extinguished during adverse weather or when directed by fire personnel — this includes Red Flag Warnings and high-wind days, which are common in the High Desert.
Ontario FAQ
Can I use a wood fire pit in my Ontario backyard?
Yes, if it burns only clean seasoned wood, stays 25 feet from structures, is attended by an adult, and is not used on a SCAQMD no-burn day.
Do propane fire pits have the same setback?
Listed gas appliances can sit closer per the manufacturer instructions, typically as little as a few feet from combustibles.
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