Ventura adopts the California Fire Code through SBMC Title 14 Chapter 14.10, which controls backyard recreational fires under CFC Section 307. Fires must be no more than 3 feet across and 2 feet high, used between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m., and the fire code official may prohibit them on Red Flag or high-wind days.
Title 14 Chapter 14.10 of the San Buenaventura Municipal Code adopts the California Fire Code (CFC) with local amendments. CFC Section 307 governs open burning, recreational fires, and portable outdoor fireplaces. A recreational fire is limited to a total fuel area no more than 3 feet wide and 2 feet high, must be at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material, and must be constantly attended with a water supply or extinguisher on hand until cold. Portable outdoor fireplaces and chimineas must be at least 15 feet from a structure under CFC 307.4.3. Per Ventura County Fire Department guidance (Standard 404), recreational fires are allowed only between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. The fire code official may prohibit recreational fires on Red Flag warning days or in High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, where the City requires brush clearance by June 1 each year. Open burning of yard waste is prohibited; only seasoned firewood or natural gas/propane may be burned. Confirm restrictions with Ventura Fire Marshal at (805) 339-4337.
A backyard fire wider than 3 feet, taller than 2 feet, closer than 25 feet to a structure, unattended, lit before 6 a.m. or after 10 p.m., or burning yard waste violates CFC Section 307 as adopted by SBMC 14.10.020. Burning during a Red Flag warning or extinguishment order can support citations and abatement.
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