Rancho Cucamonga, CA Fire Regulations: Outdoor Burning (2026)

Outdoor burning in Rancho Cucamonga is strictly limited. Under South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 444 and Rancho Cucamonga Fire Protection District policy, open burning of leaves, yard waste, agricultural debris, or construction material is prohibited anywhere within city limits. The South Coast AQMD basin does not issue routine agricultural or residential burn permits. Recreational cooking fires in approved barbecues, portable fire pits, and chimineas are permitted provided they comply with Fire Code Section 307 clearance rules and any SCAQMD Rule 445 no-burn day alerts between November 1 and the last day of February. Ceremonial fires (religious observances, Boy Scout camp activities on permitted sites) require an RCFPD permit and may be suspended during red flag warnings or elevated fire weather. Burn barrels are prohibited citywide. During wildfire season, especially in the foothill VHFHSZ, the Fire District can declare a complete open-flame ban that overrides normal recreational allowances. Violations are typically cited under the California Fire Code and can carry both administrative penalties and full cost recovery if fire response is required. Yard waste should be disposed through Burrtec green-bin service rather than burned.