Fire pit rules in Stockton, CA — also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances — cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Stockton has no fire-pit-specific chapter in its municipal code; recreational fires are governed by the California Fire Code adopted in Stockton Municipal Code Chapter 15.12 (2025 California Fire Code, effective Jan 1, 2026) plus San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District (SJVAPCD) Rule 4901 winter no-burn declarations.
Stockton adopts the California Fire Code by reference in SMC Chapter 15.12. CFC Section 307 limits recreational fires to a total fuel area of 3 feet or less in diameter and 2 feet or less in height, and requires the fire be at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material. Portable outdoor fireplaces must be set back at least 15 feet from structures. Fires must be constantly attended with a fire-extinguishing means (hose, bucket, extinguisher) available. From November 1 through the end of February, SJVAPCD Rule 4901 prohibits residential burning of wood, pellets, or manufactured logs in fireplaces, wood stoves, and outdoor wood-burning devices on declared no-burn days throughout San Joaquin County, which includes Stockton. Burn-day status must be checked daily.
California Fire Code violations are infractions enforced by the Stockton Fire Marshal under SMC 15.12 and may be charged as a misdemeanor for willful disregard. SJVAPCD Rule 4901 violations carry fines starting at $50 for a first offense, $100 for a second, and up to $1,000 for repeat violations within a 12-month period (or a no-burn education class option for first-time violators).
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in San Joaquin County.
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