Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup

Buena Park, CA Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Fire pit rules in Buena Park, CA, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.

Key Facts

Governing section
Fire Code § 307.6.2
Permanent device clearance
25 feet from structures
Portable, R-3
3 feet with spark arrester
Portable, other R
15 feet with spark arrester

Summary

Buena Park requires wood-burning outdoor fireplaces and fire pits to have an enclosed firebox with a spark arrester, and keeps them at least 25 feet from combustible structures unless permanently built.

307.6.2 Devices using wood or fuels other than natural gas or liquefied-petroleum gas. ... Fires in a fireplace shall be contained within a firebox with an attached chimney. The opening in the face of the firebox shall have an installed and maintained method of arresting sparks. The burning of wood or other solid fuel in a device is not allowed within 25 feet of combustible structures unless within an approved permanent fireplace.

Full Breakdown

Fire Code § 307.6.2, amended into Buena Park Municipal Code § 16.04.010, requires permanent wood-burning outdoor fireplaces to meet California Building Code clearance standards and contain fires within a firebox with an attached chimney and a spark-arresting opening. Burning wood or solid fuel in any device is prohibited within 25 feet of combustible structures unless inside an approved permanent fireplace. Portable fireplaces and fire rings fitted with a spark arrester may sit as close as 3 feet from combustibles at single-family homes, or 15 feet at other residential occupancies.

Violations & Fines

Operating a wood-burning fire pit without a spark arrester or within the required clearance from combustible structures is enforceable as an infraction or misdemeanor under Fire Code § 113.4.2.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far must a backyard fire pit be from my house in Buena Park?
A permanent wood-burning device needs 25 feet from combustible structures; a portable one with a spark arrester needs 3 to 15 feet depending on occupancy.
Do I need a spark arrester on a wood fire pit?
Yes. Fire Code § 307.6.2 requires an installed, maintained spark-arresting opening on any wood-burning firebox.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Buena Park

All Buena Park rules

How Buena Park compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·California rules heatmap·Compare Buena Park to another location·View the California fire regulations overview

Get notified when Fire Pits & Backyard Fires in Buena Park, CA changes

We'll email you the moment we detect a change in the code. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

We'll never sell or share your email. One-click unsubscribe in every email.

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.

Fire Pits & Backyard Fires in Nearby Cities

How other cities in Orange County handle fire pits & backyard fires.

Fullerton, CA
Light Restrictions
Costa Mesa, CA
Some Restrictions
Irvine, CA
Some Restrictions
Santa Ana, CA
Some Restrictions
Orange, CA
Some Restrictions
Anaheim, CA
Some Restrictions
Garden Grove, CA
Some Restrictions
Mission Viejo, CA
Some Restrictions