Outdoor burning rules in Fresno, 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 burning of yard waste, leaves, and trash is prohibited in Fresno year-round under SJVAPCD Rule 4103 and FMC Chapter 15. Recreational campfires are prohibited in residential yards. Only approved cooking appliances (gas or charcoal BBQ, outdoor fireplace with spark arrester) are allowed. San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District's Rule 4901 Check Before You Burn program also restricts woodburning fireplaces on declared no-burn days.
The San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District (SJVAPCD) Rule 4103 prohibits open burning of natural vegetation, trash, construction debris, and most other materials in Fresno year-round because the Valley is in extreme nonattainment for PM2.5. The only open burning allowed is limited agricultural burning with a specific permit outside city limits. Inside Fresno, FMC Chapter 15 adopts the California Fire Code which prohibits open burning and requires approved cooking or warming appliances with a spark arrester, kept at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible. Recreational campfires in residential yards are not allowed; outdoor wood fireplaces and fire pits are allowed only when used for cooking. SJVAPCD Rule 4901 Check Before You Burn runs November 1 through the end of February and prohibits use of any fireplace or wood stove on declared no-burn days (usually 80+ per season in Fresno). Penalties for illegal open burning run $100-$1,000 per incident and SJVAPCD adds separate air district fines.
Fire Department citation under CFC; SJVAPCD civil penalties $100-$1,000+ per violation; possible escape-fire liability.
Fresno, CA
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Fresno, CA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Fresno County.
See how other cities in Fresno County handle outdoor burning.
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