Small recreational fires are allowed in approved containers under 3 feet wide with 25-foot clearance, except on Spare the Air days.
Under California Fire Code Section 307.4.2, Hayward permits small recreational fires in an approved outdoor fireplace, chiminea, or portable pit provided the fire is no larger than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet high, fueled only by clean, seasoned firewood or charcoal, and maintained at least 25 feet from structures, property lines, and combustible vegetation. A responsible adult must supervise continuously and have a connected garden hose or extinguisher available. Backyard fires are banned on BAAQMD Spare the Air alert days from November through February and during red flag warnings issued by the National Weather Service for the East Bay Hills. Burning pallets, pressure-treated wood, painted lumber, garbage, or yard waste is always prohibited. Violators face administrative citations and potential liability for any resulting fire.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how other cities in Alameda County handle backyard fires.
See how Hayward's backyard fires rules stack up against other locations.
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