Outdoor Burning: Los Angeles vs Pasadena
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and Pasadena, CA?
Los Angeles and Pasadena have similar restriction levels.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
Open burning of trash, yard waste, and debris is prohibited in Los Angeles. South Coast AQMD governs. Recreational fires in approved containers may be allowed but subject to Spare the Air restrictions.
View full Los Angeles rules →Pasadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Pasadena prohibits open burning under South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 444 and the California Fire Code. Burning trash, yard waste, and debris is illegal. Agricultural burning requires AQMD permits.
View full Pasadena rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | Pasadena |
|---|---|---|
| Regulator | SCAQMD + LAFD | - |
| Trash/Debris Burning | Prohibited | - |
| Spare the Air | Wood burning banned on no-burn days | - |
| Red Flag Warning | All outdoor burning prohibited | - |
| Open Burning | - | Prohibited |
| Authority | - | SCAQMD Rule 444 + CA Fire Code |
| No-Burn Days | - | AQMD may declare restrictions |
| AQMD Fine | - | Up to $1,000/day |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Los Angeles FAQ
Can I burn yard waste in my backyard in los Angeles?
Open burning of trash, yard waste, and debris is prohibited in Los Angeles. South Coast AQMD governs. Recreational fires in approved containers may be allowed but subject to Spare the Air restrictions.
Do I need a permit for outdoor burning in los Angeles?
Regulator: SCAQMD + LAFD. Trash/Debris Burning: Prohibited. Spare the Air: Wood burning banned on no-burn days. Red Flag Warning: All outdoor burning prohibited.
Pasadena FAQ
Can I burn yard waste in Pasadena?
No. Open burning is prohibited under SCAQMD Rule 444 and the California Fire Code. Use city green waste collection instead.
What about a campfire in my backyard?
Recreational fires in approved containers may be allowed under specific conditions, but are subject to AQMD no-burn day restrictions.
Compare other topics
See how Los Angeles and Pasadena compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool