Murrieta, CA Fire Regulations: Backyard Fires (2026)

Backyard recreational fires in Murrieta are permitted under the California Fire Code as adopted by the city, subject to strict conditions designed to reduce ember spread in the VHFHSZ and wildland-urban interface. Allowed fuels are clean, dry seasoned firewood, charcoal, or natural gas/propane through a permitted fire feature; no yard waste, trash, construction debris, or treated lumber may be burned. The fire pit or appliance must sit on a noncombustible surface at least 25 feet from any structure, fence, or property line, with no overhanging branches within 15 feet. An adult must be present until the fire is fully extinguished, and a hose, fire extinguisher, or bucket of sand/water must be within reach. Fires are capped in size (often 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height for open appliances) and must end by 10 p.m. to align with quiet hours. During Red Flag warnings, PSPS events, or periods of elevated wildfire risk, Murrieta Fire may issue a countywide ban on open-flame activities, including backyard fires. Escape fires trigger strict-liability fire-suppression cost recovery.