Fire Pit Rules: Port Hueneme vs Ventura
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Port Hueneme, CA and Ventura, CA?
Port Hueneme and Ventura have similar restriction levels.
Port Hueneme, CA
Ventura County
Fire pits in Port Hueneme must comply with Oxnard Fire Department regulations (which serves Port Hueneme) and VCAPCD air quality rules. Portable fire pits using gas are generally allowed; wood-burning fire pits are subject to AQMD no-burn day restrictions.
View full Port Hueneme rules →Ventura, CA
Ventura County
Recreational fires in Ventura are governed by the California Fire Code (CFC) as adopted by the City under San Buenaventura Municipal Code (SBMC) Division 10 (Fire and Hazardous Material Regulations). CFC §307 limits open recreational fires to fuel piles no larger than 3 ft in diameter by 2 ft high, requires a 25-ft clearance from structures and combustibles, and prohibits burning when winds or air-quality alerts warrant. Portable outdoor fireplaces and gas/propane fire pits using listed appliances and approved fuel are permitted at residences with reduced clearance under CFC §307.4.3. The Ventura Fire Marshal may prohibit any open flame during Red Flag Warnings or when fire-hazard conditions exist (CFC §307.1.1).
View full Ventura rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Port Hueneme | Ventura |
|---|---|---|
| Fire Authority | Oxnard Fire Department (805) 385-7722 | - |
| Setback | 10+ feet from structures (typical) | - |
| No-Burn Days | VCAPCD mandatory compliance | - |
| Gas Fire Pits | Generally allowed without permit | - |
| VCAPCD | (805) 645-1400 for burn day status | - |
| Max fuel pile | - | 3 ft diameter × 2 ft high (CFC §307.4.2) |
| Clearance — open recreational fire | - | 25 ft from structures/combustibles |
| Clearance — portable fireplace/fire pit | - | 15 ft (CFC §307.4.3) |
| Attendance required | - | Yes — competent person with extinguishment means until cold |
| Red Flag / no-burn day burning | - | Prohibited (CFC §307.1.1; VCAPCD) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Port Hueneme FAQ
Can I have a fire pit in my Port Hueneme backyard?
Yes. Gas-fueled fire pits are generally allowed. Wood-burning fire pits must maintain proper setbacks from structures and cannot be used on VCAPCD no-burn days. Contact Oxnard Fire at (805) 385-7722 for specifics.
Are beach fire pits allowed at Hueneme Beach?
Beach fire pits are subject to separate city beach regulations. Check with the City for current rules on recreational fires at Hueneme Beach.
How do I know if it's a no-burn day?
Check VCAPCD at (805) 645-1400 or their website for daily burn status. Wood-burning fire pits and chimineas are prohibited on mandatory no-burn days.
Ventura FAQ
Can I use a propane fire pit on my patio?
Yes. Listed gas-fueled appliances used per manufacturer instructions are permitted at one- and two-family residences with at least 15 ft clearance from structures, subject to suspension during Red Flag Warnings.
Do I need a permit to have a backyard bonfire?
Not for a small recreational fire that meets CFC §307.4.2 limits (≤ 3 ft × 2 ft, 25 ft clearance, attended). Larger ceremonial or bonfire-style fires require a permit from the Ventura Fire Prevention Division (805-658-4717).
Are beach fires allowed?
Open beach fires on city and state beaches in Ventura are not authorized; California State Parks rules and city beach regulations apply. Use designated fire rings only where provided.
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