Rancho Cucamonga, CA Fire Regulations: Fire Pit Rules (2026)

The City of Rancho Cucamonga adopts the California Fire Code through Municipal Code Title 15, and enforcement is handled by the Rancho Cucamonga Fire Protection District (RCFPD). Portable outdoor fireplaces, chimineas, and permanent masonry or gas fire pits are permitted for recreational use on private residential property. Under Fire Code Section 307, a fire pit cannot sit within 10 feet of any structure, fence line, combustible landscaping, or overhanging vegetation, and the fire must be continuously attended by a responsible adult. A charged garden hose or 4-A rated extinguisher must be immediately available during use. Properties inside the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHSZ) covering Etiwanda, the northside above Banyan Street, and the foothill communities face stricter restrictions, and RCFPD may prohibit open flames entirely on red flag warning days. Rancho Cucamonga lies inside the South Coast Air Quality Management District, so SCAQMD Rule 445 prohibits burning wood on forecast no-burn days between November 1 and the last day of February. Gas-fueled pits and Rule 445 compliant manufactured logs are exempt. Approved fuels include commercial firewood, propane, and natural gas; trash, painted or pressure-treated lumber, and yard waste are prohibited.