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

Lodi Municipal Code Chapter 15.20 (Fire Code) adopts the California Fire Code by reference. Under CFC Section 307.4 (Open Burning), recreational fires are defined as outdoor fires burning materials other than rubbish where the fuel being burned is not contained in an incinerator, outdoor fireplace, portable outdoor fireplace, barbecue grill or barbecue pit, and has a total fuel area of 3 feet or less in diameter and 2 feet or less in height for pleasure, religious, ceremonial, cooking, warmth or similar purposes. CFC 307.4.2 requires recreational fires to be at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material. CFC 307.4.3 separately allows portable outdoor fireplaces in one- and two-family dwellings provided they are used per manufacturer instructions and not within 15 feet of a structure or combustible material. CFC 307.5 requires the fire to be constantly attended until extinguished and that a portable fire extinguisher with a minimum 4-A rating, dirt, sand, water barrel, garden hose or water truck be available. The Lodi Fire Prevention Bureau ((209) 333-6739, fire@lodi.gov) administers the program. Note: residential solid-fuel burning - including outdoor wood-burning devices used for warmth - is separately regulated by San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District Rule 4901 from November 1 through the end of February, when 'No Burning' days may be declared based on PM2.5 forecasts.