Fire Pit Rules: Long Beach vs Topanga
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Long Beach, CA and Topanga, CA?
Long Beach and Topanga have similar restriction levels.
Long Beach, CA
Los Angeles County
Portable fire pits are allowed in Long Beach on private property with conditions. Fires must be attended at all times. South Coast AQMD spare-the-air day restrictions apply. Beach fire rings are available at designated locations.
View full Long Beach rules →Topanga, CA
Los Angeles County
Recreational fire pits in unincorporated LA County must comply with South Coast AQMD regulations and LA County Fire Department rules. Open burning requires AQMD approval. Gas/propane fire pits are generally allowed. Wood-burning is restricted on spare-the-air days.
View full Topanga rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Long Beach | Topanga |
|---|---|---|
| Portable Pits | Allowed with conditions | - |
| Attended | Must be attended at all times | - |
| AQMD | No burns on spare-the-air days | - |
| Beach Fires | Designated fire rings only | - |
| Gas/Propane | - | Generally permitted |
| Wood Burning | - | Subject to AQMD rules |
| Spare the Air | - | No burning on alert days |
| Fire Hazard Zones | - | Additional restrictions may apply |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Long Beach FAQ
Are fire pits allowed in residential areas in Long Beach?
Gas-fueled fire pits allowed with building permit approval. Wood-burning fire pits prohibited within 25 feet of combustible structures. Subject to SCAQMD Spare the Air restrictions.
What are the fire pit setback requirements in Long Beach?
Gas Fire Pits: Allowed with building permit. Wood Burning: Min. 25 ft from combustible structures. Spark Arrester: Required for portable fire pits. No-Burn Days: SCAQMD Spare the Air restrictions apply.
Topanga FAQ
Can I have a fire pit in unincorporated LA County?
Yes, but you must follow SCAQMD Rule 444 and LA County Fire requirements: at least 15 feet from structures, max 3 feet diameter, spark screen required, and no burning on no-burn alert days.
What are no-burn days?
SCAQMD declares no-burn days when air quality is poor. Check aqmd.gov or call (866) 966-3293 for current status. Wood-burning fire pits and fireplaces are prohibited on no-burn days.
Are gas fire pits allowed on no-burn days?
Yes. Gas and propane fire pits are exempt from SCAQMD no-burn restrictions since they don't produce wood smoke. They must still meet setback and attendance requirements.
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