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

The City of Santa Clarita adopted the 2022 California Fire Code (effective March 2, 2023), which is based on the International Fire Code, 2021 Edition. Under Section 307 of the California Fire Code, recreational fires (including residential fire pits) must be conducted at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material, and conditions that could cause fire spread within 25 feet must be eliminated before ignition. Open burning requires a minimum 50-foot clearance from any structure.

All outdoor fires, including recreational fire pits, must be constantly attended until fully extinguished. At least one portable fire extinguisher with a minimum 4-A rating, or other approved fire-extinguishing equipment such as a garden hose or water bucket, must be available for immediate use. Gas and propane fire pits are preferred in the Santa Clarita Valley because they burn cleaner and are not subject to SCAQMD (South Coast Air Quality Management District) Rule 445 no-burn day restrictions.

Santa Clarita is particularly fire-conscious due to its location in northern LA County with extensive wildland-urban interface areas. Significant portions of the city, especially hillside areas in Sand Canyon, Placerita Canyon, and areas bordering the Angeles National Forest, are designated as Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (VHFHSZ). Fire services are provided by the LA County Fire Department, which enforces both the city fire code and county fuel modification requirements.