Outdoor Burning: Los Angeles vs Santa Monica
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Los Angeles and Santa Monica 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 →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Open burning is generally prohibited in Santa Monica under the adopted California Fire Code and SCAQMD Rule 444. Special Event Permits are required for outdoor activities involving open flame.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| Regulator | SCAQMD + LAFD | - |
| Trash/Debris Burning | Prohibited | - |
| Spare the Air | Wood burning banned on no-burn days | - |
| Red Flag Warning | All outdoor burning prohibited | - |
| Code Section | - | SMMC §8.44, SCAQMD Rule 444 |
| Open Burning | - | Generally prohibited |
| Special Events | - | Permit required |
| Permit Lead Time | - | 5 business days |
| Contact | - | sm.fireprevention@santamonica.gov |
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.
Santa Monica FAQ
Can I burn yard waste in my backyard in Santa Monica?
Open burning is generally prohibited in Santa Monica under the adopted California Fire Code and SCAQMD Rule 444. Special Event Permits are required for outdoor activities involving open flame.
Do I need a permit for outdoor burning in Santa Monica?
Code Section: SMMC §8.44, SCAQMD Rule 444. Open Burning: Generally prohibited. Special Events: Permit required. Permit Lead Time: 5 business days.
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