Sacramento County, CA Fire Regulations: Fire Pit Rules (2026)

Most unincorporated Sacramento County is served by Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District (Sac Metro Fire), which enforces the adopted California Fire Code. Per Sac Metro Fire's Burn Permit guidance, recreational fires are limited to 3 feet or less in diameter and 2 feet or less in height pursuant to California Fire Code Section 307.4.2, and at least 25 feet of clearance must be provided between the fire and any structure or other combustible materials, including dry grass and shrubbery. Bonfires (ceremonial only), recreational and camp fires, and temporary barbecue pits must be constantly attended until the fire is extinguished. A minimum of one portable fire extinguisher complying with California Fire Code Section 906 with a minimum 4-A rating, or other approved on-site fire-extinguishing equipment such as dirt, sand, a water barrel, garden hose, or water truck, must be available for immediate use (CFC 307.5). A burn permit from Sac Metro Fire is required for temporary fire pits (limited to roughly 3 ft by 2 ft) and ceremonial bonfires; recreational fires in an approved container (a manufactured outdoor fireplace or chiminea used per instructions) are generally allowed without a permit. Separately, on any day the Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District (Sac Metro Air District) declares a no-burn day under its 'Check Before You Burn' program (November 1 through the end of February), wood burning is restricted regardless of the fire-code rules.