Chula Vista, CA Fire Regulations: Backyard Fires (2026)

Backyard recreational fires are allowed in unincorporated San Diego County but distinguished from prohibited open burning. A recreational fire under California Fire Code Section 307.4.2 (adopted by the County) must stay at least 25 feet from a structure or combustible material and is limited to a total fuel area of 3 feet diameter and 2 feet height. Burning household trash, yard waste, or vegetation is NOT a recreational fire; it is open burning that requires an APCD burn permit and is banned for residential properties in the western section under APCD Rule 101. The exemption for recreational, ceremonial, and cooking fires under Rule 101(c)(1)(ii) applies only when clean dry wood, charcoal, natural gas, or propane is used and no nuisance is created. The County Fire Code's attendance rule (Sec. 96.1.307.5) requires that any open burning, bonfire, recreational fire, or portable outdoor fireplace be constantly attended by an adult until extinguished, with a 4-A rated extinguisher or other on-site equipment (dirt, sand, water barrel, garden hose, or water truck) ready for immediate use. Because most of the unincorporated County lies in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, CAL FIRE and the local fire district can suspend recreational and warming fires during Red Flag warnings and peak fire season. Sky lanterns and similar open-flame airborne devices are prohibited from being projected across hazardous fire areas (Sec. 96.1.305.6).