Backyard Fires: Long Beach vs Los Angeles
How do backyard fires rules compare between Long Beach, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
Long Beach has fewer restrictions than Los Angeles.
Long Beach, CA
Los Angeles County
Long Beach permits small recreational backyard fires in compliant fire pits and chimineas burning clean wood only. Open burning of yard waste, trash, or construction debris is prohibited year-round per LBMC fire code and AQMD rules.
View full Long Beach rules →Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
LAFD allows portable fire pits with seasoned wood, 10-foot clearance, and full extinguishment. SCAQMD Rule 444 bans open burning. Red Flag days suspend all outdoor fires.
View full Los Angeles rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Long Beach | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Permitted Fuel | Seasoned clean wood only | - |
| Distance | 10+ ft from structures | - |
| Trash Burning | Prohibited (SCAQMD Rule 444) | - |
| Red Flag | All outdoor fires banned | - |
| Fine | $250-$1,000 | - |
| Clearance from structures | - | 10 feet minimum |
| Fuel allowed | - | Seasoned clean wood only |
| Open burning | - | Banned by SCAQMD Rule 444 |
| Red Flag days | - | All outdoor fires suspended |
| VHFHSZ zones | - | Extra restrictions apply |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Long Beach FAQ
Can I have a fire pit in my Long Beach backyard?
Yes — propane, natural gas, or small wood-burning fire pits burning clean wood are allowed with 10-foot clearance from structures. Always attend the fire and fully extinguish before leaving.
Can I burn yard waste in Long Beach?
No. South Coast AQMD Rule 444 and Long Beach fire code prohibit open burning of yard waste, leaves, or trash year-round. Compost or place in green-waste carts for pickup.
Los Angeles FAQ
Can I burn leaves or yard waste in my backyard?
No. SCAQMD Rule 444 prohibits open burning of landscape and yard waste across the LA basin. Green waste must go in the curbside organics bin.
How do I know if today is a Red Flag day?
Check the LAFD website, LA 311, or National Weather Service LA office. Red Flag warnings suspend all recreational and open fires until the warning is lifted.
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