Palm Springs limits backyard recreational fires to approved devices using clean fuel, with wildfire-zone restrictions and Red Flag Warning suspensions.
Under the California Fire Code adopted via PSMC Ch. 8.12, recreational backyard fires are allowed only in approved devices such as manufactured fire pits, chimineas, or outdoor fireplaces burning clean dry wood or natural gas/propane. The fire must be at least 25 feet from structures, combustible fences, and overhanging vegetation. Fires must be attended at all times and fully extinguished before leaving. Open ground fires and burn barrels are prohibited. In Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones along the San Jacinto foothills, additional restrictions apply and wood-burning devices may be limited to gas-fueled alternatives. During Red Flag Warnings, Riverside County Fire can suspend all outdoor burning including recreational fires. Vacation rentals with backyard fire features must disclose use rules in the house manual and include fire extinguishers nearby.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Palm Springs code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Riverside County.
See how other cities in Riverside County handle backyard fires.
See how Palm Springs's backyard fires rules stack up against other locations.
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