Pleasanton, CA Fire Regulations: Backyard Fires (2026)

Recreational backyard fires in Pleasanton sit at the intersection of three rule sets. First, the city adopts the California Fire Code under PMC Chapter 20.24, which (through the unamended base code, CFC Section 307) allows small recreational fires and portable outdoor fireplaces only when conducted without creating a hazard; the fire code official may prohibit any fire that threatens public safety. Second, the Livermore-Pleasanton Fire Department posts a daily fire-danger level from Low to Extreme; during High and Very High danger, open-flame devices including BBQs and fire pits are restricted in open space and wildland-urban interface areas, and Red Flag Warning days impose the strictest limits. Third, and most often controlling at residences, BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 3 bans use of any wood-burning device — including outdoor recreational fires and chimineas — on any day a Spare the Air Alert is in effect, year round. Open burning of leaves, garbage, plastics, or construction debris is never allowed under BAAQMD Regulation 5. Practical guidance: keep recreational fires small and attended, burn only clean dry firewood, never on a Spare the Air day, and use gas or propane if you want a fire feature unaffected by wood-smoke bans. Always confirm the current fire-danger level and Spare the Air status first.