Backyard Fires: Ontario vs Rancho Cucamonga
How do backyard fires rules compare between Ontario, CA and Rancho Cucamonga, CA?
Ontario and Rancho Cucamonga have similar restriction levels.
Ontario, CA
San Bernardino County
Ontario backyard fires are limited to small wood fires in approved pits or gas appliances. Burning of leaves, trash, or debris is banned under SCAQMD Rule 444 and the adopted California Fire Code.
View full Ontario rules →Rancho Cucamonga, CA
San Bernardino County
Backyard recreational fires are allowed in Rancho Cucamonga with proper setbacks, but debris burning is prohibited and foothill VHFHSZ properties face red flag day restrictions.
View full Rancho Cucamonga rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Ontario | Rancho Cucamonga |
|---|---|---|
| Code authority | CFC 307 as adopted | - |
| Setback | 25 feet from structures | - |
| Pile size | Under 3 ft wide and 2 ft high | - |
| Attendance | Adult with extinguisher required | - |
| Bans | Trash, leaves, debris, no-burn days | - |
| Allowed | - | Recreational pits, chimineas, gas features, barbecues |
| Prohibited | - | Debris burning, trash, treated wood, yard waste |
| Minimum clearance | - | 10 feet from structures and combustibles |
| Red flag restriction | - | RCFPD can prohibit all open flames in VHFHSZ |
| HOA rules | - | Many foothill HOAs require gas-only fire features |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Ontario FAQ
Can I have a small bonfire with friends in Ontario?
Only if the fire is inside an approved pit or portable fireplace burning clean wood, stays 25 feet from structures, and is attended by a sober adult with water nearby.
What about a propane fire table on a patio?
Listed propane appliances are allowed and can sit much closer to structures per the manufacturer instructions, and they are not suspended by SCAQMD no-burn days.
Rancho Cucamonga FAQ
Can I have a backyard bonfire in Rancho Cucamonga?
Small recreational fires in an approved pit or chiminea are allowed, but large bonfires require an RCFPD special event permit and are typically restricted to non-residential sites.
What smoke nuisance rules apply?
Excessive smoke that crosses property lines can be cited under nuisance and SCAQMD rules. Recurring complaints lead to administrative citations.
Can I roast marshmallows in my Etiwanda backyard?
Yes, in a compliant fire pit or chiminea with 10-foot clearance, on non-red-flag days, using approved fuel. Gas fire features are preferred in the VHFHSZ.
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