Long Beach Backyard Fire Regulations Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

Long Beach adopts the California Fire Code with local amendments under LBMC Chapter 18.48. The California Fire Code defines a recreational fire as an outdoor fire in which the total fuel area is no greater than 3 feet in diameter or in length and 2 feet in height, used for cooking, warmth, pleasure, or ceremonial purposes, where the fuel is not contained in an incinerator, outdoor fireplace, portable outdoor fireplace, barbeque grill, or barbeque pit. Fires meeting this definition are permitted in residential backyards subject to safety conditions and SCAQMD air quality rules.

The South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) regulates wood burning throughout the South Coast Air Basin, which includes Long Beach. On days when SCAQMD issues a mandatory No-Burn Day under Rule 445, all wood-burning devices — including backyard fire pits, chimineas, and outdoor fireplaces burning wood, manufactured logs, or charcoal — must not be used. Violating a No-Burn Day is enforceable by SCAQMD with fines beginning at $50 for a first offense and reaching up to $1,000 for repeat offenses. Gas and propane appliances are permanently exempt from no-burn restrictions. Households where wood burning is the sole source of heat may also qualify for a hardship exemption.

Regardless of burn day status, Long Beach Fire Code prohibits burning household garbage, treated or painted wood, plastics, rubber, accelerants, and yard debris. Any backyard fire must be attended at all times by a responsible adult and must be fully extinguished before leaving the area. The Long Beach Fire Department has authority to order the immediate extinguishment of any fire determined to be a hazard, even if technically within size limits, and may issue administrative citations for unsafe open burning.