Compton Backyard Fire Regulations Rules (2026): What You Need to Know
Heavy RestrictionsThe Short Version
Backyard open burning is prohibited in Compton under both SCAQMD Rule 444 and the LA County Fire Code, which Compton adopts by reference. Open burning of trash, yard waste, leaves, and construction debris is illegal throughout the South Coast Air Quality Management District, which includes all of LA County. Recreational fires in approved fire pits or outdoor fireplaces are permitted under limited conditions, but burning of waste materials, lumber, or treated wood in any container is not considered a recreational fire and remains prohibited. SCAQMD no-burn alerts further restrict even recreational fires on high-pollution days.
Full Breakdown
Compton is within the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD), which imposes some of the strictest air quality regulations in the nation. SCAQMD Rule 444 prohibits open burning throughout the district, which encompasses all of Los Angeles County, Orange County, and parts of Riverside and San Bernardino counties. Open burning includes the burning of trash, vegetation, yard waste, leaves, construction debris, lumber, and any other materials in an open outdoor setting or in non-approved containers such as barrels or pits.
Compton contracts with the LA County Fire Department for fire protection services and adopts the LA County Fire Code by reference. The Fire Code reinforces the SCAQMD prohibition on open burning and adds operational fire safety requirements for any outdoor flame source. Burn barrels, burn piles, and improvised outdoor incinerators are illegal regardless of what is being burned. Even materials that might seem harmless — such as dry leaves or untreated wood scraps — cannot be burned in an open setting because of the particulate matter and air quality impacts.
Recreational fires are a narrow exception. A fire contained within an approved fire pit, outdoor fireplace, or manufactured portable fire device fueled by natural gas, propane, or clean dry firewood may be permissible under the fire-pits provisions, subject to size, setback, and clearance requirements. However, even recreational fires are subject to SCAQMD mandatory curtailment (no-burn) alerts, which are issued during periods of high particulate matter concentration. On no-burn days, all outdoor wood-burning fires — including those in approved fire pits — are prohibited. Violations of open burning rules can be reported to the LA County Fire Department at (323) 881-2411 or to SCAQMD at 1-800-CUT-SMOG.
What Happens If You Violate This?
Open burning violations carry SCAQMD penalties starting at $750 for a first offense and up to $10,000 for repeat violations. LA County Fire Code violations are separate and may result in fines starting at $100 per day plus the cost of fire department response. Illegal burns that cause fire damage or spread to other properties may result in criminal charges including arson or reckless burning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I burn leaves or yard waste in my Compton backyard?
What is a no-burn day and how does it affect me?
Who do I call to report illegal burning in Compton?
Sources & Official References
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