Riverside County, CA Fire Regulations: Backyard Fires (2026)

A 'recreational fire' under California Fire Code 307.4.2 — adopted by Riverside County Ordinance 787 — is an outdoor fire for cooking, warmth, or similar purposes that is not over 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height and is not a bonfire. It must be at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material, and conditions that could let the fire spread within 25 feet must be cleared before lighting. A manufactured portable outdoor fireplace (Section 307.4.3) must be at least 15 feet from structures, except at one- and two-family dwellings. All backyard fires must be constantly attended until fully out, with a minimum 4-A portable fire extinguisher or equivalent (dirt, sand, water barrel, garden hose) immediately available (Section 307.5). Importantly, a recreational fire may only burn clean, dry firewood — burning leaves, brush, construction debris, or household trash is open burning, which requires both a Fire Department permit and air-district authorization (SCAQMD Rule 444 in the western County). Riverside County's amendments also prohibit releasing sky lanterns (CFC 308.1.6.3 as amended). During high fire danger the Fire Chief can close hazardous fire areas and suspend outdoor burning entirely (Ord. 787, Section 104.13). Given the County's wildfire risk, recreational fires should be avoided on red-flag / windy days even when otherwise permitted.