Fire pit rules in Grass Valley, CA — also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances — cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Nevada County adopts the California Fire Code (CFC Section 307) under Title 4 of the County Code. Recreational fires must be at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material, kept under 3 feet in pile size and 2 feet in height, attended at all times, and accompanied by a charged garden hose or other extinguishing equipment. All open burning, including recreational piles, is prohibited on no-burn days and during the declared closed fire season.
Title 4 of the Nevada County Code incorporates the California Fire Code as amended for the County's Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones. CFC 307.4.2 governs recreational fires: 25-foot clearance from any structure, max 3-foot diameter and 2-foot height, constant adult attendance, and on-site water suppression. Portable outdoor fireplaces and chiminea-style fire pits require 15-foot clearance and the same attendance and water rules. CAL FIRE air-quality 'permissive burn days' must be in effect, and during the declared fire season (typically May 1 through November 30 in Nevada County) outdoor recreational burning is restricted or prohibited countywide. Gas-fueled fire pits with shutoff valves are permitted but still must follow clearance rules.
Allowing an open or recreational fire to escape can be charged under California Health & Safety Code 13007 and Public Resources Code 4421-4422, exposing the responsible party to criminal liability and full cost-recovery for suppression. County Code Compliance can also assess administrative penalties.
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