Fire Pit Rules: Simi Valley vs Ventura
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Simi Valley, CA and Ventura, CA?
Simi Valley and Ventura have similar restriction levels.
Simi Valley, CA
Ventura County
Simi Valley allows recreational fire pits and outdoor fireplaces on residential properties subject to Ventura County Fire Protection District regulations. Fire pits must maintain specific clearances from structures and combustible materials.
View full Simi Valley 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 | Simi Valley | Ventura |
|---|---|---|
| Clearance Required | 15 feet from structures | - |
| Attendance | Must be attended at all times | - |
| Fuel | Clean dry wood or manufactured logs only | - |
| Ventura County Fire | (805) 389-9710 | - |
| 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.
Simi Valley FAQ
Can I have a fire pit in my backyard in Simi Valley?
Yes, portable fire pits are allowed with at least 15 feet clearance from structures. Fires must be attended and a means of extinguishment must be available at all times.
Are fire pits allowed during red flag warnings?
No, all outdoor burning including fire pits is prohibited during red flag warnings or burn bans issued by the Ventura County Fire Protection District.
Do I need a permit for an outdoor fireplace?
Portable fire pits generally do not need a permit, but permanent built-in outdoor fireplaces or fire features may require a building permit from Community Development.
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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