Fire pit rules in Carson, CA — also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances — cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Carson contracts fire/EMS to the Los Angeles County Fire Department (LACoFD), so the California Fire Code adopted at LA County Code Title 32 governs residential outdoor fires. Portable outdoor fireplaces and recreational fires are allowed but must be set back from structures, attended at all times, and use only clean fuel.
Carson Municipal Code adopts the California Building Standards Code (Title 24 CCR) by reference (CMC Building Code chapter on eCode360 at title CA4377). Because Carson is a contract city served by LACoFD, the California Fire Code as amended by LA County Code Title 32 (the Consolidated Fire Code) is the operative code. Under California Fire Code §307.4.2 (recreational fires) and §307.4.3 (portable outdoor fireplaces), recreational fires must be no closer than 25 feet from any structure, contained in an approved appliance kept at least 15 feet from a structure, and only seasoned firewood or clean fuel may be burned — no trash, leaves, construction debris, or rubber. A competent person and extinguishing means (hose or extinguisher) must be on site until the fire is fully out. Natural-gas and propane patio appliances listed to UL standards are permitted, but propane cylinders must follow CFC Chapter 61 storage limits (see propane storage row). The South Coast AQMD also restricts wood-burning during no-burn advisories.
LACoFD inspectors and Carson code enforcement can issue citations for unattended fires, burning prohibited materials, or fires within setback distances. Carson Code §1304 administrative citation authority applies escalating fines ($100/$200/$500 typical first/second/third). Fires that escape are also actionable under Cal. Penal Code §452 (reckless burning).
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