Outdoor burning rules in Altadena, CA — also called the burn ban, open burning, or fire restriction ordinance — set when you can burn yard waste, debris, or run a recreational fire.
Open outdoor burning of vegetation is generally prohibited in unincorporated LA County. SCAQMD Rule 444 governs agricultural and rangeland burning; permits required from LA County Fire.
SCAQMD Rule 444 (South Coast Air Quality Management District) prohibits the open burning of any combustible refuse without authorization. LA County Fire Code Title 32 Section 307 requires a permit for any open burning and limits burning to days approved by SCAQMD and the Fire Department. Backyard burning of yard waste is generally prohibited. On red-flag warning days, all open burning permits are suspended. The Eaton Fire's January 2025 devastation has led to heightened enforcement in Altadena.
Unpermitted open burning is a misdemeanor under Title 32 with fines up to $1,000 and potential civil liability for any fire damage.
Altadena, CA
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Altadena, CA
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Altadena, CA
Trimming protected oak trees (≥8 in DBH) requires an Oak Tree Permit if the work enters the protected zone or removes >25% of crown. Street trees in the publ...
Altadena, CA
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Altadena, CA
LA County Fire's Brush Clearance program also functions as the weed-abatement ordinance — vacant and improved lots must keep weeds and grasses cut to under 3...
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Los Angeles County.
See how other cities in Los Angeles County handle outdoor burning.
See how Altadena's outdoor burning rules stack up against other locations.
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