Santa Cruz, CA Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)
Fire pit rules in Santa Cruz, CA, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Key Facts
- Code Section
- SCMC 19.05.120 (CFC 307.4.2, 307.5)
- Max size
- 3 ft diameter, 2 ft high fuel area
- Clearance
- 25 ft from structures/combustibles
- Attendance
- Constantly attended; 4-A extinguisher on hand
Summary
The City of Santa Cruz allows backyard recreational and warming fires daily unless wildfire danger is high. The fire must be no more than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet high, kept at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material, constantly attended with extinguishing equipment on hand, and may be ordered out by the Fire Department if deemed unsafe.
307.4.2 Recreational Fires. Recreational fires shall not be conducted within 25 feet of a structure or combustible material. Conditions which could cause a fire to spread within 25 feet of a structure shall be eliminated prior to ignition. 307.5 Attendance. Open burning; bonfires, recreational fires and use of portable outdoor fireplaces shall be constantly attended until the fire is extinguished. A minimum of one portable fire extinguisher complying with Section 906 with a minimum 4-A rating or other approved on-site fire-extinguishing equipment, such as dirt, sand, water barrel, garden hose or water truck, shall be available for immediate utilization.
Full Breakdown
2 recreational fires shall not be conducted within 25 feet of a structure or combustible material, and conditions that could cause spread within 25 feet must be eliminated before ignition. 3), except when used at one- and two-family dwellings. 5 all such fires must be constantly attended until extinguished, with at least one portable fire extinguisher (minimum 4-A rating) or equivalent on-site equipment such as dirt, sand, a water barrel, garden hose, or water truck immediately available. The Fire Department may order a fire extinguished if deemed unsafe; smoke complaints go to the Monterey Bay Air Resources District.
Violations & Fines
An unsafe or non-compliant fire may be ordered extinguished by the Santa Cruz Fire Department or fire code official under SCMC 19.05.120 (CFC 307); failure to attend a fire or maintain required clearance and extinguishing equipment is a Fire Code violation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have a backyard fire in Santa Cruz?
What equipment do I need on hand?
What if a neighbor complains about the smoke?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Santa Cruz
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