Fire Pit Rules: San Jose vs Santa Clara
How do fire pit rules rules compare between San Jose, CA and Santa Clara, CA?
San Jose and Santa Clara have similar restriction levels.
San Jose, CA
Santa Clara County
Fire pits and portable outdoor fireplaces are allowed in San Jose with clearance requirements under the 2022 Fire Code. Recreational fires need 25-foot setback from structures.
View full San Jose rules →Santa Clara, CA
Santa Clara County
Santa Clara allows residential fire pits fueled by propane or natural gas. Wood-burning devices face Bay Area Air Quality Management District curfews during Spare the Air alerts.
View full Santa Clara rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | San Jose | Santa Clara |
|---|---|---|
| Setback | 25 ft from structures | - |
| Portable Units | 15 ft from structures | - |
| Attendance | Required at all times | Adult must remain until fire is out |
| Air Quality | BAAQMD restrictions apply | - |
| Clearance | - | 10 ft from structures and vegetation |
| Preferred fuel | - | Propane or natural gas |
| Wood burn alerts | - | BAAQMD Spare the Air prohibits wood fires |
| Code basis | - | California Fire Code + BAAQMD Reg 6-3 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
San Jose FAQ
Are fire pits allowed in residential areas in San Jose?
Fire pits and portable outdoor fireplaces are allowed in San Jose with clearance requirements under the 2022 Fire Code. Recreational fires need 25-foot setback from structures.
What are the fire pit setback requirements in San Jose?
Setback: 25 ft from structures. Portable Units: 15 ft from structures. Attendance: Required at all times. Air Quality: BAAQMD restrictions apply.
Santa Clara FAQ
Can I use a wood fire pit in Santa Clara?
Only on non-alert days. BAAQMD bans wood burning during Winter Spare the Air Alerts. Gas fire pits are always allowed.
Do I need a permit for a backyard gas fire pit?
No permit is required for a typical manufactured residential gas fire pit, but gas line installation must be performed by a licensed contractor with a building permit.
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