Outdoor Burning: Ontario vs Rancho Cucamonga
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Ontario, CA and Rancho Cucamonga, CA?
Ontario and Rancho Cucamonga have similar restriction levels.
Ontario, CA
San Bernardino County
Open burning of yard waste, trash, or debris is banned in Ontario under the adopted California Fire Code and SCAQMD Rule 444. Only recreational fires in approved pits and BBQ cooking are allowed.
View full Ontario rules →Rancho Cucamonga, CA
San Bernardino County
Open burning of vegetation or debris is prohibited in Rancho Cucamonga. Only recreational cooking fires, permitted ceremonial fires, and approved gas appliances are allowed under SCAQMD and RCFPD rules.
View full Rancho Cucamonga rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Ontario | Rancho Cucamonga |
|---|---|---|
| SCAQMD rule | Rule 444 prohibits open burning | - |
| Allowed | Recreational wood fires and BBQs only | - |
| Prohibited | Leaves, trash, debris, tires | - |
| No-burn days | All wood fires suspended | - |
| SCAQMD tip line | 1-800-CUT-SMOG | - |
| Residential debris burning | - | Prohibited, no permits issued in SCAQMD basin |
| Recreational cooking | - | Allowed per Fire Code 307 with 10 ft clearance |
| Burn barrels | - | Prohibited citywide |
| Red flag days | - | RCFPD may ban all open flames in foothill areas |
| Yard waste disposal | - | Burrtec green cart, not burning |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Ontario FAQ
Can I burn yard clippings in Ontario?
No. SCAQMD Rule 444 and the local fire code both ban open burning of leaves, brush, and yard waste. Use green waste bins for disposal.
Does the no-burn day rule apply to gas fire pits?
No-burn day advisories specifically target wood smoke. Natural gas and propane fire features are allowed to operate on no-burn days.
Rancho Cucamonga FAQ
Can I burn palm fronds or tumbleweeds in my yard?
No. All vegetation and debris burning is prohibited. Place palm fronds in green waste or arrange a bulky pickup with Burrtec.
Can I have a bonfire in Alta Loma?
Only with an RCFPD ceremonial or special event permit, and never on red flag warning days. Recreational fire pits under Fire Code 307 are allowed with proper setbacks.
Who regulates air quality in Rancho Cucamonga?
The South Coast Air Quality Management District covers the entire Inland Empire. Call 1-800-CUT-SMOG to report excessive smoke or illegal burning.
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