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

Santa Ana's fire pit regulations derive from the California Fire Code as locally adopted in Municipal Code Chapter 15. Portable fire pits — whether wood-burning, charcoal, or gas/propane — are considered recreational fire appliances and are permitted without a building permit as long as they comply with clearance and safety requirements. Wood-burning portable fire pits must maintain a minimum 15-foot clearance from any structure, fence, property line, overhead branch, or combustible material, and must be equipped with a mesh screen or spark arrestor to prevent embers from escaping. Gas and propane portable fire pits may follow the manufacturer's specified clearance distances, which are typically 5 to 10 feet from structures.

Permanent built-in fire pits, outdoor fireplaces, and fire features that are attached to or constructed as part of a patio or hardscape may require a building permit from the Santa Ana Planning and Building Agency. The permit requirement depends on the size of the installation, the fuel type, the gas line connection (if applicable), and whether the project involves structural modifications. Gas-line fire features always require a plumbing permit for the gas connection, and the work must be performed by a licensed contractor. Electrical ignition systems may also trigger an electrical permit. Homeowners should contact the Planning and Building Agency at (714) 667-2700 before beginning construction to determine which permits are needed.

Given Santa Ana's position as one of the most densely populated cities in California, with many residential lots under 5,000 square feet, the 15-foot clearance requirement for wood-burning fire pits eliminates them as a practical option for many properties. Gas and propane fire pits are the most common choice in Santa Ana because they require less clearance, produce no smoke or particulate emissions, are exempt from SCAQMD no-burn day restrictions, and can be used year-round without checking daily burn status. The Santa Ana Fire Department recommends gas or propane fire pits for properties where maintaining 15-foot clearance from all structures and combustibles is not feasible.