Apple Valley, CA Fire Regulations: Outdoor Burning (2026)

Outdoor open burning in the Town of Apple Valley is administered by the Apple Valley Fire Protection District (AVFPD). A burn permit costs $15 and is valid for one year from the date of issue. The permit authorizes burning of yard vegetation only: weeds, tumbleweeds, grasses, leaves, pine needles, and small tree trimmings no larger than 2 inches in diameter. Residents may NOT burn processed wood in any form (lumber, building or construction debris, cardboard, paper) or household garbage. Even with a valid permit, burning is allowed only on an authorized burn day and only from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. Burning may be suspended on any given day due to high smog levels, high fire danger, or high winds, so residents must verify that it is an authorized burn day before lighting. Permits are available online or in person at the Headquarters Fire Station, 22400 Headquarters Drive, Monday through Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (excluding holidays). Notably, burning is suspended in the surrounding unincorporated San Bernardino County areas, while within the Town limits burning is allowed on a day-by-day basis with a valid permit. Air quality for the region is regulated by the Mojave Desert Air Quality Management District (MDAQMD), which governs open outdoor fires regionally; the District's smog-based suspensions reflect those air-quality limits.