Backyard recreational fires in Folsom are allowed only in approved portable outdoor fireplaces, chimineas, or fire pits using clean wood or gas. Open ground fires, fire rings, and burning of yard waste are prohibited. All backyard fires are banned during Red Flag Warnings and SMAQMD 'Don't Light Tonight' days.
Folsom distinguishes between prohibited 'open burning' (yard waste, debris, trash — see outdoor-burning) and allowed 'recreational fires' in appropriate containment. Allowed: UL-listed portable fire pits, chimineas, fireplaces, gas-fueled fire features, and manufactured fire rings with spark screens. Prohibited: open ground fires, homemade burn barrels, and any fire burning anything other than seasoned firewood or clean manufactured logs. All backyard fires must maintain 15-foot clearance from structures, fences, and vegetation. Fires must be constantly attended by an adult with water or extinguisher immediately available. On Red Flag Warning days (NWS Sacramento) and during SMAQMD Rule 421 'Don't Light Tonight' wood-burning curtailment episodes (Nov 1 – Feb 28), all wood-burning backyard fires are prohibited; propane and natural gas features remain allowed unless specific AQ emergency rules apply. Neighbors may file nuisance complaints with Folsom Code Enforcement if smoke materially interferes with quiet enjoyment. In VHFHSZ east-hill neighborhoods, Folsom Fire Department may issue seasonal total bans on outdoor fires regardless of type.
First offense typically warning and extinguishment. Repeat or Red Flag day violations: fines up to $500. Escape fires trigger full cost recovery for FFD response. Smoke nuisance complaints handled through Code Enforcement.
See how other cities in Sacramento County handle backyard fires.
See how Folsom's backyard fires rules stack up against other locations.
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