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

West Covina is situated in the eastern San Gabriel Valley within Los Angeles County and is subject to the air quality regulations of the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD). Under SCAQMD Rule 445, the district issues mandatory No-Burn day advisories during the winter burning season (typically November through March) when weather conditions and PM2.5 particulate matter forecasts indicate unhealthy air quality. On these days, residents may not operate wood-burning fireplaces, uncertified wood stoves, fire pits using solid fuel, or any other wood-burning device. Mandatory No-Burn days are announced daily by 4:30 PM for the following day through the SCAQMD website, mobile app, and media outlets.

EPA-certified pellet stoves and natural gas or propane fireplaces are exempt from mandatory No-Burn restrictions because they produce significantly less particulate matter than traditional wood-burning appliances. Residents who rely on a wood-burning device as their sole source of heat may apply for a low-income exemption through SCAQMD. The district also operates a voluntary Check Before You Burn advisory program to encourage reduced burning even on days when burning is technically permitted but air quality is marginal.

Separately from No-Burn day regulations, the City of West Covina and the LA County Fire Department prohibit all open burning of trash, yard waste, and construction debris within city limits. Residents must use the city's green waste collection service or take materials to an approved disposal facility. During Red Flag Warning conditions declared by the National Weather Service, the LA County Fire Department may impose additional restrictions on all outdoor burning, including recreational campfires and barbecues in high-risk areas.