Garden Grove Backyard Fire Regulations Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

Garden Grove is located 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 — defined as combustion of any material in the open air or in a non-approved container — throughout the South Coast Air Basin, which includes all of Orange County. This means that residential burning of leaves, branches, grass clippings, paper, cardboard, lumber, furniture, and any other waste materials is illegal in Garden Grove.

The prohibition applies year-round and is not affected by weather conditions or air quality index levels. There is no residential burn permit available for waste disposal purposes. All yard waste must be disposed of through Garden Grove's regular green waste collection program operated by Republic Services, or taken to an approved waste facility. Composting is an encouraged alternative for organic yard waste.

Narrow exemptions to the open burning ban include recreational fires in approved fire pits and portable outdoor fireplaces that comply with SCAQMD and fire code requirements, barbecue grills and outdoor cooking appliances used solely for food preparation, and fires set by the fire department for training or vegetation management purposes. Agricultural burning requires a specific SCAQMD permit and is limited to qualifying agricultural operations — residential properties do not qualify.

The Garden Grove Fire Department enforces local fire prevention codes related to open burning, while SCAQMD independently enforces air quality violations. A single illegal burn event can result in penalties from both agencies. Residents can report illegal burning to SCAQMD at 1-800-288-7664 or to the Garden Grove Fire Department at (714) 741-5600.