Outdoor burning rules in San Marcos, 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 and trash is prohibited in San Marcos. The city follows San Diego Air Pollution Control District rules that ban residential open burning in urbanized areas. Recreational fires in approved containers (BBQs, fire pits) are permitted when conditions allow but prohibited during Red Flag Warnings.
San Marcos prohibits open burning of trash, yard waste, and debris in compliance with San Diego Air Pollution Control District regulations and the California Fire Code adopted in Chapter 17.64. Residential open burning is not permitted in urbanized areas of San Diego County. Recreational fires in approved devices such as barbecue grills, portable fire pits, and chimineas using propane or natural gas are allowed when weather conditions permit. All outdoor fires are prohibited during Red Flag Warnings, Fire Weather Watches, and when winds exceed 10 mph. Bonfires are not permitted in residential areas. Agricultural burning requires a special permit from the Air Pollution Control District. Green waste should be disposed of through the city's regular yard waste collection service.
Illegal burning may result in fines and criminal charges. Persons who cause fires are liable for suppression costs. Contact San Marcos Fire at (760) 744-1050 x3411 or call 911 for active fires.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in San Diego County.
See how other cities in San Diego County handle outdoor burning.
See how San Marcos's outdoor burning rules stack up against other locations.
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