Backyard Fires: San Jose vs Sunnyvale
How do backyard fires rules compare between San Jose, CA and Sunnyvale, CA?
Sunnyvale has fewer restrictions than San Jose.
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 →Sunnyvale, CA
Santa Clara County
Small recreational fires in approved fire pits or chimineas are allowed in Sunnyvale backyards using clean fuel. Open ground fires and debris burning are prohibited under the Fire Code and BAAQMD rules.
View full Sunnyvale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | San Jose | Sunnyvale |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Appliance required | - | Fire pit or chiminea |
| Clearance | - | 10 feet from combustibles |
| Allowed fuel | - | Clean wood, propane, gas |
| Banned fuel | - | Yard waste, trash, treated wood |
| Spare the Air days | - | Wood burning prohibited |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
San Jose FAQ
Sunnyvale FAQ
Can I use a chiminea on my apartment balcony?
No, most multi-family buildings prohibit open-flame appliances on balconies under California Fire Code Section 308.1.4.
How do I know if today is a Spare the Air day?
Sign up for alerts at sparetheair.org or check the BAAQMD website each evening during winter months.
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