Fontana, CA Fire Regulations: Backyard Fires (2026)

Fontana residents may host recreational backyard fires subject to California Fire Code Sec. 307 as adopted by Fontana Municipal Code Title 15. A recreational fire is defined as a burning of materials other than rubbish where the fuel is not contained in an incinerator, with a total fuel area 3 feet or less in diameter and 2 feet or less in height, used for cooking, warmth, or ambiance. The fire must be at least 10 feet from any structure, fence, overhanging tree branches, or combustible vegetation; portable outdoor fireplaces and chimineas may be located as close as 15 feet from structures per manufacturer instructions. A responsible adult must monitor the fire at all times, and a garden hose connected to water or a portable extinguisher rated 4-A must be on hand. Only clean firewood, charcoal, propane, or natural gas may be used - burning construction debris, yard waste, pressure-treated lumber, plastics, or household trash is prohibited. During the SCAQMD Check Before You Burn season (November through February), wood-burning outdoor devices cannot be operated on forecast no-burn days. SBCoFD may order any fire extinguished that produces excessive smoke affecting neighbors. Propane and natural-gas fire features are always permitted. Repeat nuisance-smoke complaints can trigger Fontana Code Enforcement citations.