Outdoor Burning: Mountain View vs Palo Alto
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Mountain View, CA and Palo Alto, CA?
Mountain View and Palo Alto have similar restriction levels.
Mountain View, CA
Santa Clara County
Open outdoor burning of leaves, yard waste, or debris is prohibited in Mountain View. Only contained recreational fires using approved fuel are allowed.
View full Mountain View rules →Palo Alto, CA
Santa Clara County
Open burning of yard waste, trash, or land-clearing debris is prohibited in Palo Alto. Only small recreational wood or charcoal fires in approved devices are allowed, and those are banned on Spare-the-Air days.
View full Palo Alto rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mountain View | Palo Alto |
|---|---|---|
| Yard waste burning | Prohibited | Prohibited |
| Trash burning | Prohibited | Prohibited |
| Recreational fires | Contained devices only | Allowed with conditions |
| Disposal | Recology green cart | - |
| Agencies | MV Fire and BAAQMD | - |
| Red flag bans | - | May suspend all outdoor fires |
| Enforcement | - | Palo Alto Fire Department |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mountain View FAQ
Can I burn leaves in my backyard?
No. Burning leaves or yard waste is prohibited. Place green waste in your Recology organics cart for curbside collection.
Are chimineas allowed?
Chimineas are allowed with clean fuel such as seasoned wood outside Spare the Air alerts or with gas, and must be attended and clear of combustibles.
Palo Alto FAQ
Can I burn yard waste in my backyard?
No. Yard waste must be composted or placed in the city green waste cart for collection.
Are patio heaters and pizza ovens allowed?
Yes, gas and propane appliances are allowed and are exempt from Spare-the-Air wood-burning restrictions.
Compare other topics
See how Mountain View and Palo Alto 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