Pure recreational wood fires in Fresno backyards are prohibited because SJVAPCD Rule 4103 bans open burning of natural material and the California Fire Code only allows cooking and warming fires. Gas fire pits, BBQs, and chimineas used for cooking are allowed with 25-foot clearance from structures and combustible materials.
FMC Chapter 15 adopts the California Fire Code which governs recreational fires. Open wood fires for ambience alone are not permitted in Fresno because SJVAPCD Rule 4103 also restricts any open burning of natural vegetation. However, outdoor cooking appliances (propane or natural gas fire pits, charcoal BBQs, wood-fired pizza ovens, chimineas used for cooking), portable gas fire pits, and permanent outdoor gas fireplaces are allowed. CFC §307 requires 25 feet between any open flame appliance and any structure, overhang, or combustible material, reducible to 15 feet for a contained cooking appliance. During SJVAPCD Rule 4901 Check Before You Burn no-burn days (Nov 1-Feb 28/29), residential wood burning in fireplaces and wood stoves is prohibited; gas appliances are exempt. Red Flag Warnings from the National Weather Service trigger additional Fire Department restrictions.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Fresno code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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