Fire pit rules in Sacramento County, CA — also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances — cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Unincorporated Sacramento County allows backyard fire pits subject to California Fire Code and SMAQMD rules. Fire pits must be 3 ft or smaller, burn only clean seasoned wood or propane, and sit at least 15 ft from structures, fences, and combustible vegetation.
Sacramento County enforces the California Fire Code as adopted in County Code Title 13. CFC Section 307 permits recreational fires up to 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet tall with a 15 foot clearance from structures and property lines. Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District (Metro Fire) and Sacramento Metro Air Quality Management District (SMAQMD) Rule 421 prohibit burning garbage, treated wood, leaves, or yard waste. On Spare the Air days issued by SMAQMD, wood burning in open pits is prohibited countywide. Propane and natural gas fire tables are allowed without burn-day restrictions. A garden hose or extinguisher must be within reach, and fires must be attended at all times.
First violation typically results in a warning and extinguishment order. Repeat violations or burning on no-burn days can result in SMAQMD fines of 100 to 500 dollars. Fires that escape containment may trigger negligence liability under Public Resources Code 4421.
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See how Sacramento County's fire pit rules rules stack up against other locations.
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