Fire pit rules in Rialto, CA — also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances — cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Gas and propane fire pits and charcoal barbecues are exempt from regional burn rules in Rialto. Wood-burning fire pits must qualify as recreational fires under the California Fire Code: no more than 3 feet across and 2 feet high, kept 25 feet from structures, and constantly attended.
Rialto strictly prohibits open burning (Ordinance No. 1706, amending 2025 California Fire Code section 307.1.1), but the fire code treats contained recreational fires and portable outdoor fireplaces as a distinct category. Under the California Fire Code as adopted by Rialto Municipal Code Chapter 15.28, a recreational fire is limited to a total fuel area of 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height, must be kept at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material (CFC section 307.4.2), and portable outdoor fireplaces must be used per the manufacturer's instructions at least 15 feet from a structure, with an exception for one- and two-family dwellings (CFC section 307.4.3). Fires must be constantly attended with a fire extinguisher, garden hose, or similar extinguishing equipment ready (CFC section 307.5). Regionally, South Coast AQMD Rule 444(h)(6) exempts recreational fires and the burning of natural gas, propane, untreated wood, or charcoal for cooking or warmth from the district's burn-day and permit system. Burning trash, leaves, or construction debris in a fire pit is never allowed. Check with the Rialto Fire Prevention Division at (909) 820-2505 before lighting wood fires, since the department can order any fire extinguished when conditions are hazardous.
A fire that violates the adopted fire code is a misdemeanor punishable by up to a $1,000 fine and 180 days in jail per RMC 15.28.040, and the fire department can order any hazardous fire discontinued. Anyone whose fire escapes can be billed for fire suppression costs under Health and Safety Code section 13009.
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