Backyard Fires: Oakland vs Sunol
How do backyard fires rules compare between Oakland, CA and Sunol, CA?
Oakland has fewer restrictions than Sunol.
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 →Sunol, CA
Alameda County
Recreational fires in Alameda County are regulated by BAAQMD Regulation 6 Rule 3 (wood-burning) and fire code Section 307. Fire pits must use clean seasoned wood or natural gas/propane, be 25 feet from structures, and are prohibited during Spare the Air alerts.
View full Sunol rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Oakland | Sunol |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Wood burn alerts | - | Banned Nov 1 - Feb 28 |
| Size limit | - | 3 ft dia / 2 ft high |
| Setback open pit | - | 25 feet from structure |
| Setback contained | - | 15 feet typical |
| Gas/propane | - | Exempt from Spare the Air |
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.
Sunol FAQ
Can I use my propane fire pit on a Spare the Air day?
Yes. BAAQMD wood-burning bans do not apply to natural gas and propane fire features under Rule 3.
Are backyard fires allowed during red flag warnings?
In VHFHSZ areas, fire agencies may prohibit all open flame including fire pits during red flag conditions. Check with Alameda County Fire before burning.
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