Compton Fire Pit Rules Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

Compton is served by the LA County Fire Department and adopts the LA County Fire Code, which establishes the standards for outdoor fire devices in residential settings. Portable fire pits, chimineas, and manufactured outdoor fireplaces are permitted in backyard settings when they comply with size, setback, fuel, and operational requirements. Permanent built-in fire pits and outdoor fireplaces may require a building permit from the Compton Community Development Department and must comply with the California Building Code and Fire Code.

Portable fire pits must not exceed 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height. They must be placed on a non-combustible surface and located at least 15 feet from any structure, fence, overhead branch, or combustible material. When burning wood, the fire pit must be equipped with a spark screen or metal lid to contain embers. Only clean, seasoned firewood is permitted as fuel — treated lumber, painted wood, particle board, cardboard, trash, and yard waste are prohibited. Gas-fired fire pits using natural gas or propane have fewer restrictions because they produce less particulate matter, but they must still maintain the 15-foot setback from structures.

All wood-burning fire pits in Compton are subject to SCAQMD mandatory curtailment (no-burn) rules. On days when SCAQMD declares a no-burn alert due to high particulate matter levels, all outdoor wood-burning fires are prohibited, including those in compliant fire pits. Gas-fired fire pits are generally exempt from no-burn restrictions. Residents should check the SCAQMD website or call 1-866-966-3293 before lighting a wood fire. An adult must supervise any outdoor fire at all times, and a garden hose or fire extinguisher must be readily available for immediate use.