Irvine Fire Pit Rules Rules (2026): What You Need to Know
Some RestrictionsThe Short Version
Irvine permits recreational fires in approved manufactured fire pits and permanent outdoor fireplaces subject to conditions set by the Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) and the California Fire Code. Portable fire pits must be commercially manufactured with a spark screen, use only clean dry wood or propane/natural gas, and maintain minimum clearance distances from structures and combustible materials. SCAQMD burn-day restrictions apply to wood-burning fire pits, and all outdoor fire activity is prohibited during Red Flag Warning conditions. Gas-fueled fire pits are generally preferred as they are exempt from SCAQMD wood-burning curtailments.
Full Breakdown
The Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA), which serves Irvine, permits recreational fires in approved fire pits and outdoor fireplaces under the California Fire Code Section 307.4 provisions for recreational fires. Acceptable fire pits include commercially manufactured portable units with a spark-arresting screen and permanently installed outdoor fireplaces that meet building code requirements. Homemade fire pits constructed from loose bricks, cinder blocks, or unlined excavations are not considered approved devices.
Fire pits must maintain a minimum clearance of 15 feet from any structure, fence, overhead obstruction, or combustible material. They must be placed on a non-combustible surface such as concrete, pavers, or bare earth — not on wooden decks, dry grass, or artificial turf. Only clean, dry seasoned firewood, commercially manufactured fire logs, or gas fuel (propane or natural gas) may be burned. Burning of trash, treated wood, painted materials, plastics, yard waste, or any material that produces excessive smoke or toxic fumes is prohibited. A fire extinguisher, connected garden hose, or other fire-suppression device must be immediately available whenever the fire pit is in use, and the fire must never be left unattended.
SCAQMD imposes mandatory no-burn days during periods of poor air quality, typically during fall and winter months. On these days, wood-burning fire pits and fireplaces may not be used. Residents can check the current burn status at aqmd.gov or by calling 1-866-966-3293. Gas-fueled fire pits are exempt from SCAQMD wood-burning curtailments, making them a popular choice among Irvine homeowners. During Red Flag Warning conditions — which are common in Irvine during Santa Ana wind events given the city's position at the base of the eastern foothills — all outdoor fire activity including gas fire pits is prohibited by OCFA order.
Many Irvine HOAs impose additional restrictions on fire pits, including outright prohibitions on balconies and patios in condominium and townhome complexes. Residents should consult their HOA CC&Rs in addition to OCFA requirements before installing or using a fire pit.
What Happens If You Violate This?
Using a fire pit in violation of OCFA requirements — including inadequate clearance, improper fuel, or use during a Red Flag Warning — may result in administrative fines starting at $100 for a first offense and up to $500 for repeat violations. SCAQMD violations for burning on a no-burn day carry separate fines of up to $1,000. If an unattended or improperly used fire pit causes a fire, the property owner may be liable for all suppression costs and face criminal charges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are fire pits legal in Irvine?
Can I use my fire pit on my apartment or condo balcony?
Are gas fire pits subject to the same restrictions as wood-burning ones?
Sources & Official References
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