Fire Pit Rules: Los Angeles vs New York
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and New York, NY?
Los Angeles has fewer restrictions than New York.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
Recreational fires in fire pits are allowed in Los Angeles but must comply with SCAQMD Rule 444 and LAMC fire code provisions. Fires must be in approved containers, no larger than 3 feet in diameter, at least 15 feet from structures, and never during SCAQMD no-burn days. Wood-burning fire pits may be further restricted in the VHFHSZ.
View full Los Angeles rules →New York, NY
New York County
Wood-burning fire pits are effectively prohibited in New York County. NYC Fire Code treats backyard and terrace wood fires as open burning. Gas-fueled outdoor appliances may be allowed with restrictions.
View full New York rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | New York |
|---|---|---|
| Container | Approved fire pit required | - |
| Distance | 15 ft minimum from structures | - |
| No-Burn Days | Prohibited during SCAQMD alerts | - |
| VHFHSZ | Additional restrictions may apply | - |
| Size Limit | 3 ft diameter max | - |
| Wood fire pits | - | Effectively banned |
| Chimineas | - | Not allowed |
| Natural gas OK | - | With plumber permit |
| Large propane | - | Prohibited residential |
| Building rules | - | May ban entirely |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Los Angeles FAQ
Are fire pits allowed in residential areas in los Angeles?
Gas-fueled fire pits are allowed with building department approval. Solid-fuel (wood-burning) fire pits subject to SCAQMD restrictions and LAFD Fire Code setback rules.
What are the fire pit setback requirements in los Angeles?
Gas Fire Pits: Allowed with building dept approval. Wood Burning: Min. 25 ft from combustible structures. Spare the Air: All outdoor burning may be restricted. Red Flag: All burning prohibited.
New York FAQ
Can I have a smokeless wood fire pit?
No. The fuel, not the smoke output, drives the rule. Wood burning outdoors is not permitted.
What about ethanol tabletop fireplaces?
FDNY treats liquid-fuel decorative burners as restricted and many buildings ban them outright.
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