San Rafael, CA Fire Regulations: Outdoor Burning (2026)

Marin County Fire Department administers open-burning regulations under Chapter 16.16 of the Marin County Code (currently Ordinance 3775, which adopts the California Fire Code with Marin amendments). During the declared fire-hazard season — typically May 1 through October 31 — open burning is suspended. Outside that window, the County requires every resident to 'complete a LE5 California Inter-Agency Burn Permit and have it signed off by Marin County Fire.' This LE5 form is the standard permit used statewide under California Public Resources Code § 4423, which authorizes CAL FIRE and local fire authorities to require permits for outdoor burning during fire season. Marin's burn rules limit pile size to four feet in diameter and four feet in height, require a 10-foot cleared area down to bare soil around each pile, prohibit burning on windy days, and require an adult to tend the fire at all times. Only dry, natural vegetative material may be burned — 'the burning of trash, painted wood or other debris is not allowed.' Before lighting any permitted burn, residents must verify it is a 'permissive burn day' as posted by the Bay Area Air Quality Management District. Marin County Fire issues pile burn permits only for properties in unincorporated Marin County; residents inside city limits or in special fire districts must obtain permits from their local agency.