Fire pit rules in Redwood City, CA — also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances — cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Outdoor fire pits using wood or solid fuel are subject to BAAQMD Spare the Air restrictions and are banned on alert days. Redwood City's fire risk and BAAQMD jurisdiction effectively prohibit most recreational wood burning.
Under BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 3, all wood-burning devices — including outdoor fire pits, chimineas, and backyard fire bowls — are prohibited on Spare the Air Alert days throughout the Bay Area, including Redwood City. With 19-41 alert days per year under the updated 2025 rule, backyard fire pits have severely limited usability. Propane or natural gas fire features may be permissible but require review with the Fire Marshal and local building division.
Illegal burning: $100 to $1,000. Causing fire: criminal charges possible. CA PRC §4423: up to $1,000 + 6 months.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in San Mateo County.
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