Fire pit rules in Tulare County, CA — also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances — cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Unincorporated Tulare County has no separate fire-pit ordinance; rules come from the adopted 2022 California Fire Code (Section 307). Recreational fires must be at least 25 feet from anything combustible, and portable outdoor fireplaces at least 15 feet. Burning trash or rubbish in a fire pit is prohibited.
Tulare County does not have a standalone backyard fire-pit chapter. Instead, Ordinance Code Section 7-15-1115 adopts the 2022 California Fire Code as the Fire Code of the County of Tulare, enforced by the Tulare County Fire Chief in the unincorporated areas. Under adopted California Fire Code Section 307 (Open Burning, Recreational Fires and Portable Outdoor Fireplaces), a recreational fire — a wood/charcoal fire under 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet tall, for cooking or warmth — must not be conducted within 25 feet of a structure or combustible material, and a portable outdoor fireplace (a manufactured device) must not be used within 15 feet. A bonfire (larger fire) must be at least 50 feet away and requires a permit. Importantly, Tulare County amended Fire Code Section 307.1.1 via Ordinance Code Section 7-15-1130(f) to expressly prohibit open burning of waste, rubbish, trash, and processed materials — so a fire pit may not be used to burn garbage. Fires must be constantly attended with a means of extinguishment available, and the fire official can require any fire to be extinguished if it creates a hazard.
Violating the adopted California Fire Code provisions is an infraction under Ordinance Code Section 7-15 (Building Regulations), punishable as provided in Code Section 125. Igniting fireworks-class explosives is treated more severely (misdemeanor under Chapter 56). An escaped fire can trigger fire-suppression cost recovery under Health & Safety Code 13009.
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