Backyard Fires: Palo Alto vs San Jose
How do backyard fires rules compare between Palo Alto, CA and San Jose, CA?
Palo Alto has fewer restrictions than San Jose.
Palo Alto, CA
Santa Clara County
Backyard recreational fires are permitted in approved pits or appliances with 25-foot clearance, but are banned on Spare-the-Air days and may be suspended entirely during red-flag conditions in the foothills.
View full Palo Alto rules →San Jose, CA
Santa Clara County
San Jose and the Bay Area Air Quality Management District restrict backyard fires. Recreational wood fires in portable pits are allowed on non-Spare the Air days, but open burning of yard debris is prohibited year-round in the city. Natural gas and propane fire features are exempt from Spare the Air restrictions and recommended.
View full San Jose rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Palo Alto | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Clearance | 25 feet from structures | - |
| Fuel size limit | 3 ft wide, 2 ft tall | - |
| Attendance | Adult required | - |
| Spare-the-Air | No wood burning | - |
| Gas appliances | Exempt from wood bans | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Palo Alto FAQ
Can I have a bonfire in my yard?
No. Large open bonfires are not allowed. Only contained recreational fires under the size limits are permitted.
What counts as an approved fire pit?
Commercial metal or masonry pits with spark arresters, portable UL-listed outdoor fireplaces, or permanent gas-fueled pits meet the standard.
San Jose FAQ
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