Anaheim Burn Bans Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

Anaheim is the largest city in Orange County with a population of approximately 350,000 and is located within the South Coast Air Basin regulated by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD). Under SCAQMD Rule 445 (Wood-Burning Devices), mandatory No-Burn curtailment orders are issued during winter months when meteorological conditions are forecast to trap particulate pollution in the basin. On declared No-Burn days, residents throughout Anaheim may not operate wood-burning fireplaces, traditional wood stoves, fire rings with wood fuel, or any other solid-fuel-burning device. The SCAQMD Check Before You Burn program provides daily status updates at aqmd.gov or by calling 1-866-966-3293.

Anaheim's location in the inland portion of Orange County, bordered by the Santa Ana Mountains to the east and subject to Santa Ana wind events, creates elevated fire risk conditions during fall and winter. The Anaheim Fire & Rescue Department enforces the California Fire Code as adopted by the city, which prohibits all open burning of refuse, vegetation, construction debris, and other materials within city limits regardless of the time of year. Agricultural burning, once common in Orange County's citrus era, is no longer permitted within Anaheim's fully urbanized boundaries. Residents must dispose of yard waste through the city's curbside green waste collection program operated by Republic Services.

During Red Flag Warning conditions declared by the National Weather Service, Anaheim Fire & Rescue may impose additional temporary restrictions that prohibit all outdoor open-flame activities, including recreational fire pits, charcoal barbecues, and tiki torches on private property. These enhanced restrictions supplement the SCAQMD No-Burn orders and remain in effect for the duration of the Red Flag Warning. EPA-certified wood stoves and pellet stoves that meet current SCAQMD emission standards, as well as natural gas and propane fireplaces and inserts, are exempt from No-Burn day restrictions. Residents can verify current burn status at aqmd.gov or through the SCAQMD mobile app.