Backyard recreational fires are allowed in Montebello under the 2019 California Fire Code, adopted as Municipal Code Chapter 15.32, as long as they are small, burn clean fuel, and stay clear of structures. Burning trash or yard waste is prohibited, and the city's own Fire Department enforces it.
Montebello enforces the 2019 California Fire Code as Chapter 15.32 of its Municipal Code (MMC 15.32.010) through the independent Montebello Fire Prevention Bureau. Fire Code Chapter 3 permits a backyard 'recreational fire' of clean wood or charcoal, with a fuel area no larger than 3 feet across and 2 feet high, without a permit at homes. Such fires must stay 25 feet from structures, be attended by an adult until out, and have a hose or extinguisher ready (CFC 307). Approved portable fireplaces may be used at least 15 feet from structures. Burning rubbish, leaves, or yard waste is prohibited; ashes must go in metal containers (MMC 15.32.290). In the hillside and oil-field hazard area, extra caution applies.
A fire that exceeds recreational size, is unattended, burns prohibited materials, or creates a hazard can be ordered extinguished by the Montebello Fire Department and cited (MMC 15.32.060). Smoke crossing property lines may be cited under Rule 402.
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