Fontana, CA Fire Regulations: Fire Pit Rules (2026)

The City of Fontana follows the California Fire Code as adopted in Fontana Municipal Code Title 15, along with San Bernardino County Fire Protection District requirements (SBCoFD serves Fontana). Portable outdoor fireplaces, chimineas, and permanent masonry fire pits are allowed for recreational use on private residential property. Per the Fire Code Sec. 307, a fire pit cannot be located within 10 feet of any structure, combustible landscaping, fence line, or overhanging vegetation, and the fire must remain under the control of a responsible adult at all times. A garden hose connected to a water supply or a functional fire extinguisher rated 4-A or larger must be immediately available whenever the pit is in use. Fontana lies within the South Coast Air Quality Management District, so Rule 445 prohibits burning wood in residential fireplaces and outdoor wood-burning devices on forecast no-burn days between November 1 and the last day of February. Gas-fueled pits and pits burning only manufactured logs labeled as compliant with Rule 445 are exempt. The fuel supply must be commercially produced firewood, propane, or natural gas; trash, painted or treated lumber, yard waste, and construction debris are prohibited. Rental properties and multi-family complexes often face additional restrictions from property managers and the fire code. SBCoFD personnel can order any fire extinguished if it threatens property or creates excessive smoke.