Temecula, CA Fire Regulations: Backyard Fires (2026)

Temecula follows California Fire Code (Title 24, Part 9) §307 and SCAQMD Rule 444 in regulating recreational backyard fires. Permitted: manufactured fire pits, chimineas, and outdoor fireplaces with spark arrestors burning seasoned natural firewood, charcoal, propane, or natural gas. Prohibited: open ground fires, burning of leaves, lumber scraps, trash, painted/treated wood, or any vegetation debris. Required clearances: 10 ft from any structure, deck, fence, or overhanging branches; 5 ft from combustible materials. Fire size capped — generally not more than 3 ft diameter and 2 ft high, with no flames exceeding 4 ft. An adult must be in attendance at all times with a charged garden hose, fire extinguisher, or shovel and dirt readily available. Fires must be fully extinguished before leaving (cold to touch). Critical seasonal limits: Riverside County Fire/CAL FIRE issues red flag warnings during high-wind/low-humidity events (especially Santa Ana season Sep-Dec); during red flag warnings or declared burn bans, ALL outdoor open flames including manufactured fire pits are prohibited. Propane and natural gas appliances generally remain allowed. HOAs in Temecula commonly add stricter rules — some prohibit any wood-burning appliances entirely. Violation: misdemeanor citation, $250+ fine first offense, and full liability for any fire damage. Report unsafe fires to Temecula PD non-emergency (951) 696-3000 or call 911 if unattended/spreading.