San Bernardino County, CA Fire Regulations: Fire Pit Rules (2026)

San Bernardino County Fire's Outdoor Fire Requirements Guide classifies backyard fire features into recreational fires, portable outdoor fireplaces, and BBQ pits. A recreational fire is any outdoor fire with a fuel area no larger than 3 feet wide by 2 feet high that is not in an outdoor fireplace, BBQ grill, or BBQ pit, used for pleasure, ceremony, cooking, or warmth (a typical campfire or fire ring). A recreational fire must be at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material; that distance may be reduced to 15 feet when the fire is confined to a permanent fire ring fueled solely by LPG/propane or natural gas. A permit is required for recreational fires, EXCEPT when confined to a permanent fire ring fueled solely by LPG/propane or natural gas, in which case no permit is required. Portable outdoor fireplaces (including chimineas) made of non-combustible material with a fuel area no larger than 3 feet by 2 feet must be kept no closer than 15 feet to a structure or combustible material; a permit is only required when used in a Wildfire Risk Area, and gas/propane units need no permit. At single-family residences, portable fireplaces may sit on a patio if the combustion area is not in direct contact with combustible decking. Spark arrestors are required on outdoor fireplaces and chimneys. All fires must be attended by an adult 18 or older until fully extinguished, with a 4-A fire extinguisher and water supply immediately available.