Backyard recreational fires are permitted in approved pits or appliances with 25-foot clearance, but are banned on Spare-the-Air days and may be suspended entirely during red-flag conditions in the foothills.
Backyard fires in Palo Alto are regulated under Palo Alto Municipal Code Chapter 15.04 (California Fire Code) and BAAQMD Regulation 6 Rule 3. Permitted backyard fires must use an approved pit, chiminea, or UL-listed portable fireplace burning only clean seasoned wood, charcoal, or gas. The fire must be at least 25 feet from any structure, fence, overhead wires, or combustible vegetation, attended by a responsible adult, and extinguished before leaving. Fuel loads are limited to 3 feet diameter by 2 feet tall. On BAAQMD Spare-the-Air alert days, all solid-fuel burning is banned. During elevated fire danger, Palo Alto Fire can issue local burn bans. Gas fire pits with a permanent fuel line are considered appliances and face fewer restrictions.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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