Backyard Fires: Oakland vs San Leandro
How do backyard fires rules compare between Oakland, CA and San Leandro, CA?
Oakland and San Leandro have similar restriction levels.
Oakland, CA
Alameda County
Small recreational backyard fires are allowed in Oakland only in manufactured fire pits, chimineas, or barbecues using clean dry firewood or charcoal — never yard waste, trash, or treated wood. Fires must be 25 feet from structures and vegetation, constantly attended with water nearby, and are prohibited on Spare the Air days, Red Flag Warnings, and during OFD-declared fire weather restrictions in the Hills.
View full Oakland rules →San Leandro, CA
Alameda County
Backyard recreational fires in San Leandro are allowed in approved pits under 3 ft diameter with 15 ft setback, banned on Spare the Air days.
View full San Leandro rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Oakland | San Leandro |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Allowed Fuel | - | Clean dry firewood |
| Attendance | - | Required at all times |
| Setback | - | 15 ft structures |
| Spare Air | - | No wood fires |
| Extinguisher | - | Must be on hand |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Oakland FAQ
Can I have a chiminea on my Oakland Hills deck?
Wood-burning devices on combustible decks are strongly discouraged and frequently cited. Gas or propane fire features are much safer and not subject to Spare the Air bans. Check with OFD before installing any wood-burning device in the VHFHSZ.
How do I know if today is a Spare the Air day?
Check sparetheair.org or sign up for BAAQMD alerts. On declared days, any wood burning — indoor fireplace or outdoor pit — is illegal and subject to fines.
San Leandro FAQ
Can I have a chiminea or fire bowl in my San Leandro backyard?
Yes. Manufactured chimineas and bowls are allowed with the same 15 ft setback, provided you burn only clean wood and check Spare the Air status.
Who enforces this in San Leandro?
San Leandro code enforcement at (510) 577-3394 handles most complaints. Alameda County agencies handle regional issues.
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