Fire pit rules in Selma, CA — also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances — cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Selma regulates outdoor fires under Title VII, Chapter 7 (Prohibited Burning). Open burning is generally prohibited within city limits under Section 7-7-1. Portable fire pits must comply with California Fire Code clearance requirements. The SJVAPCD Rule 4901 restricts wood-burning during curtailment days November through February.
Selma Municipal Code Title VII, Chapter 7 (Prohibited Burning) broadly prohibits open burning within city limits under Section 7-7-1. This applies to backyard bonfires, burn piles, and uncontained outdoor fires. Portable outdoor fire pits and fireplaces that burn manufactured gas logs or use natural gas/propane are generally permitted as they fall under California Fire Code exceptions for portable outdoor fireplaces at residential properties. Wood-burning fire pits are subject to SJVAPCD Rule 4901, which imposes curtailment days during the wood-burning season (November through February) when air quality is poor in the San Joaquin Valley. On no-burn days, all wood-burning including fire pits is prohibited. The California Fire Code requires portable outdoor fireplaces to be used in accordance with manufacturer instructions and maintained at least 15 feet from structures or combustible materials at single-family dwellings. Residents can check daily burn status at valleyair.org or by calling 1-800-SMOG-INFO. Selma's location in the San Joaquin Valley, which has some of the poorest air quality in the nation, makes these restrictions particularly significant.
Open burning violation: SMC 7-7-1. Burning on a no-burn day: SJVAPCD Rule 4901 fine up to $100 first offense. Fire code clearance violations enforced by Selma Fire Department.
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