Fire Pit Rules: Jurupa Valley vs Riverside
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Jurupa Valley, CA and Riverside, CA?
Jurupa Valley has fewer restrictions than Riverside.
Jurupa Valley, CA
Riverside County
Jurupa Valley follows the 2025 California Fire Code as adopted by JVMC Chapter 8.10. Small recreational backyard fires and portable outdoor fireplaces (chimineas, gas patio fire features) are allowed within strict size and setback limits; open burning of yard waste and bonfires are prohibited by South Coast AQMD Rule 444 and require Riverside County Fire Department approval.
View full Jurupa Valley rules →Riverside, CA
Riverside County
Riverside permits small recreational fires in approved pits, but bonfires and open burning require a Fire Department permit at least 24 hours in advance. Distance, size, and supervision rules are strictly enforced under the California Fire Code as adopted by RMC Chapter 16.32.
View full Riverside rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Jurupa Valley | Riverside |
|---|---|---|
| Adopted code | 2025 California Fire Code (JVMC Ch. 8.10) | - |
| Max recreational fire size | 3 ft diameter, 2 ft tall (CFC §307.4.2) | 3 ft diameter, 2 ft tall |
| Setback from structure (open recreational fire) | 25 feet | - |
| Setback (portable outdoor fireplace at SFR) | 15 feet | - |
| Adult supervision required | Yes — until fully extinguished | - |
| Open burning of trash/yard waste | Prohibited (SCAQMD Rule 444) | - |
| Permit required (bonfire/open burn) | - | Yes — 24 hours in advance |
| Setback from structure (open fire) | - | 25 feet |
| Setback from structure (barbecue pit) | - | 15 feet |
| Adult supervision | - | Required until fully extinguished |
| Governing code | - | RMC Ch. 16.32 / CFC §307 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Jurupa Valley FAQ
Can I use a propane or natural-gas patio fire pit in my backyard?
Yes. Gas-fueled portable outdoor fireplaces and patio fire features are permitted at one- and two-family dwellings under CFC §307.4.3 when used per the manufacturer's instructions and kept at least 15 feet from structures. They are easier to comply with than wood-burning pits because they don't generate embers.
Do I need a permit for a small wood-burning fire pit?
Permits are generally not required for a recreational fire of 3 feet or less in diameter and 2 feet or less in height under CFC §307.4.2. Anything larger, or any bonfire, requires written permission from Riverside County Fire Department / CAL FIRE, and may be banned during red flag warnings.
Can I burn yard waste or trim from my brush clearance?
No. Open burning of leaves, brush, or household waste is prohibited in the South Coast Air Basin under SCAQMD Rule 444. Cleared vegetation must be disposed of via the city's franchise hauler (Burrtec) or hauled to a green-waste facility.
Riverside FAQ
Can I have a backyard chiminea or propane patio fire feature?
Portable outdoor fireplaces (chimineas, gas fire bowls) are allowed at one- and two-family dwellings without a permit when used per manufacturer instructions, kept at least 15 feet from structures, and never used on combustible balconies. Multifamily and apartment use is restricted by CFC 307.5.
Do I need a permit for a small recreational backyard fire pit?
A permit is not required for a recreational fire 3 feet or less in diameter and 2 feet or less in height. Anything larger, or a true bonfire, requires a written City of Riverside Fire Department permit at least 24 hours before ignition.
Can I burn yard waste or trash?
No. The Fire Code Official prohibits open burning for waste disposal. South Coast AQMD rules also generally ban residential open burning in the Riverside basin.
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