Chico, CA Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)
Fire pit rules in Chico, CA, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Key Facts
- Structure setback
- 15 feet minimum
- Container size
- 36-inch max diameter
- Fuel
- Gas or dry clean wood only
- Red Flag days
- Wood fires banned
Summary
Chico allows wood or gas outdoor fire pits on private property with a 15-foot structure setback, a 36-inch container cap, and a Red Flag Warning burn ban.
The outdoor warming appliance shall not be used on a combustible surface and shall not be within 15 feet of any structure or combustible material. Use is limited to open air and shall not be used under a cover or roof. ... Outdoor warming fires shall be contained in a steel or stone container explicitly designed for such use, with a maximum diameter of 36 inches. Burn barrels are prohibited.
Full Breakdown
Chico Municipal Code Chapter 9.35 (Outdoor Warming Appliances with Open Flame) covers fire pits and similar appliances. Use is limited to private property or a permitted park location, the appliance can't sit on a combustible surface or within 15 feet of a structure or combustible material, and it must burn in the open air, never under a roof or cover. Fires must be contained in a steel or stone container designed for the purpose, capped at a 36-inch diameter, burn barrels are banned, covered with a fine noncombustible screen, fueled only with gas or dry clean wood, supervised at all times, and kept away from use on National Weather Service Red Flag Warning days.
Violations & Fines
A violation is a misdemeanor or infraction, enforced by the city attorney's office or through an administrative citation under Chico Municipal Code Chapter 1.15.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far must a fire pit be from my house in Chico?
Can I use my wood fire pit on a Red Flag Warning day?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Chico
How Chico compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·California rules heatmap·Compare Chico to another location·View the California fire regulations overview
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