Fire Pit Rules: Hesperia vs San Bernardino
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Hesperia, CA and San Bernardino, CA?
Hesperia and San Bernardino 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 →San Bernardino, CA
San Bernardino County
San Bernardino allows residential fire pits under strict size, fuel, and clearance rules enforced by San Bernardino County Fire. Recreational fires must be small and fueled by clean wood.
View full San Bernardino rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Hesperia | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| 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) | - |
| Max wood fire size | - | 3 ft diameter and 2 ft tall under CFC 307 |
| Structure clearance | - | 25 ft from structures; 15 ft for portable fireplaces |
| Attendance rule | - | Adult plus charged hose or extinguisher required at all times |
| Red Flag ban | - | All open burning prohibited during Red Flag Warnings |
| Gas appliances | - | Listed propane and natural gas fire pits generally permitted year-round |
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.
San Bernardino FAQ
Can I have a backyard fire pit in San Bernardino?
Yes, for recreational fires up to 3 ft wide using clean wood or charcoal, located at least 25 ft from any structure and attended by an adult.
Are propane fire pits exempt from the burn rules?
Listed gas appliances with shut-off valves are treated as patio equipment and are generally allowed even when wood-burning recreational fires are restricted.
When are fire pits banned completely?
During Red Flag Warnings and periods of elevated fire danger declared by the San Bernardino County Fire Chief, all open burning is suspended.
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