Fire Pit Rules: San Mateo vs South San Francisco
How do fire pit rules rules compare between San Mateo, CA and South San Francisco, CA?
San Mateo and South San Francisco have similar restriction levels.
San Mateo, CA
San Mateo County
Outdoor wood-burning fire pits are banned on Spare the Air Alert days throughout San Mateo under BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 3. With 19–41 annual alert days expected, backyard wood burning is severely restricted.
View full San Mateo rules →South San Francisco, CA
San Mateo County
Wood-burning fire pits are prohibited on Spare the Air Alert days throughout South San Francisco under BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 3. With 19–41 annual alert days, outdoor wood burning is severely limited.
View full South San Francisco rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | San Mateo | South San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Wood-Burning Fire Pits | Banned on Spare the Air Alert days | Banned on Spare the Air Alert days |
| Annual Alert Days | Estimated 19–41 per year (2025 update) | - |
| Gas Features | Check with Fire Department | Check with SSF Fire Division (650) 829-6645 |
| Authority | BAAQMD Reg. 6 Rule 3 | BAAQMD Reg. 6 Rule 3 |
| Alert Season | - | Nov–Feb primarily; year-round possible |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
San Mateo FAQ
Are fire pits allowed in residential areas in San Mateo?
Outdoor wood-burning fire pits are banned on Spare the Air Alert days throughout San Mateo under BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 3. With 19–41 annual alert days expected, backyard wood burning is severely restricted.
What are the fire pit setback requirements in San Mateo?
Wood-Burning Fire Pits: Banned on Spare the Air Alert days. Annual Alert Days: Estimated 19–41 per year (2025 update). Gas Features: Check with Fire Department. Authority: BAAQMD Reg. 6 Rule 3.
South San Francisco FAQ
Are fire pits allowed in residential areas in South San Francisco?
Wood-burning fire pits are prohibited on Spare the Air Alert days throughout South San Francisco under BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 3. With 19–41 annual alert days, outdoor wood burning is severely limited.
What are the fire pit setback requirements in South San Francisco?
Wood-Burning Fire Pits: Banned on Spare the Air Alert days. Alert Season: Nov–Feb primarily; year-round possible. Gas Features: Check with SSF Fire Division (650) 829-6645. Authority: BAAQMD Reg. 6 Rule 3.
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