Backyard recreational fires in Selma are substantially restricted by the combination of SMC 7-7-1, which prohibits open burning within city limits, and the SJVAPCD air quality regulations that independently govern particulate emissions throughout the San Joaquin Valley. Open burning of any kind, including bonfires, burn barrels, and uncontained campfire-style fires, is prohibited on residential properties in Selma. However, contained fire appliances using natural gas or propane that do not produce visible smoke are generally permitted because they are classified as appliances rather than open fires under the California Fire Code. These gas-fueled fire pits, outdoor fireplaces, and similar decorative heating devices must comply with CFC Section 308.1.4 setback requirements, maintaining a minimum 10-foot clearance from structures and combustible materials. Wood-burning fire pits, chimineas, and outdoor wood-burning fireplaces that generate smoke and particulate matter are effectively prohibited by the dual regulatory framework of the Selma burning ban and the SJVAPCD Check Before You Burn program. The Selma Fire Department enforces backyard fire regulations through its prevention division under Fire Marshal Anthony Rivas.
Selma Municipal Code Section 7-7-1 establishes a blanket prohibition on outdoor burning within city limits, and this prohibition directly affects the ability of residents to have backyard fires for recreational or heating purposes. The prohibition encompasses all forms of uncontained open flames used for non-cooking purposes, including bonfires, campfires on residential property, burn barrels, fire rings with wood fuel, and similar arrangements. Gas-fueled fire pits and outdoor fireplaces that operate on propane or natural gas are generally permitted because they do not produce the smoke, ash, and airborne particulate matter that the burning ordinance and air quality regulations are designed to prevent. These devices are classified as gas appliances under the California Fire Code rather than as open fires, provided they are installed and operated according to manufacturer specifications and comply with all applicable setback and safety requirements. The California Fire Code Section 308.1.4 requires that any permitted outdoor fire appliance maintain a minimum clearance of 10 feet from combustible structures, overhanging vegetation, and other combustible materials. This setback applies to all outdoor fire devices regardless of fuel type and is intended to prevent structure fires caused by radiant heat or flying embers. The SJVAPCD operates the Check Before You Burn program throughout the San Joaquin Valley, which monitors daily air quality conditions and issues burn status advisories. During episodic no-burn periods, which are common during fall and winter months when temperature inversions trap pollutants in the valley, even otherwise-permitted outdoor fire activities may be curtailed. While gas fire pits generally produce negligible particulate emissions, residents should be aware of current air quality advisories and use good judgment. Wood-burning fire pits, chimineas, and outdoor wood-burning fireplaces are effectively prohibited in Selma by the combination of SMC 7-7-1 and SJVAPCD regulations. These devices generate visible smoke and particulate matter that violate both the local burning ban and regional air quality rules. The San Joaquin Valley is classified as a nonattainment area for PM2.5 under federal air quality standards, and residential wood burning is a significant contributor to the region's particulate pollution problem. Residents who wish to install a gas fire pit or outdoor gas fireplace should ensure the installation complies with electrical and gas plumbing permit requirements where applicable. The Selma Fire Department handles complaints about unauthorized backyard fires and can be contacted through Fire Marshal Anthony Rivas at (559) 891-2265 or through the Fire Prevention office at (559) 891-2211.
Open burning violations are classified as misdemeanors under the Selma Municipal Code. SJVAPCD fines for illegal burning start at $1,000 per violation. Fire safety setback violations are enforced by the Selma Fire Department and may result in abatement orders.
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