Fire pit rules in San Francisco, CA — also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances — cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Outdoor fire pits burning wood or solid fuels are prohibited on Spare the Air Alert days under BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 3. In the dense urban environment of San Francisco, open fires are effectively banned year-round by a combination of BAAQMD restrictions and SF Fire Code. Gas-fueled fire pits are allowed when not prohibited by building rules. Beach fires at Ocean Beach are banned by the National Park Service.
San Francisco follows California Fire Code §307 for recreational fires. Approved fire pits must be 15+ feet from structures and combustible materials. Maximum 3-foot diameter for wood-burning pits. Fire must be attended with extinguishing means nearby. No burning of trash, treated wood, or yard waste. Gas/propane fire pits generally exempt from size restrictions. Red Flag Warning days may trigger additional restrictions. Check VHFHSZ status for your property.
Illegal burning: $100 to $1,000. Causing fire: criminal charges possible. CA PRC §4423: up to $1,000 + 6 months.
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See how San Francisco's fire pit rules rules stack up against other locations.
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