Outdoor burning rules in Costa Mesa, 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.
Costa Mesa prohibits outdoor burning of trash and refuse. Rubbish may only be burned in approved incinerators. Gas-fueled outdoor fire devices are the primary permitted option. SCAQMD Rule 444 bans open burning in the South Coast Air Basin.
Under Costa Mesa's fire code provisions, rubbish, trash, or combustible waste material shall be burned only within an approved incinerator. Open burning of yard waste, leaves, trash, and debris is prohibited throughout the city. Gas-fueled outdoor fireplaces and fire pits approved by the Building Department are the primary permitted option for recreational outdoor fire. South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 444 prohibits open burning of refuse in the South Coast Air Basin, which includes Costa Mesa. SCAQMD may issue additional no-burn alerts on poor air quality days that prohibit all residential wood burning. Charcoal and gas barbecues for cooking are generally permitted under normal conditions.
Open burning violations are enforced by the Costa Mesa Fire Department and SCAQMD. Fines range from administrative penalties to criminal charges. SCAQMD first-offense fines can reach $1,000.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Orange County.
See how other cities in Orange County handle outdoor burning.
See how Costa Mesa's outdoor burning rules stack up against other locations.
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