Outdoor burning rules in Thousand Oaks, 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.
Outdoor wood burning is subject to seasonal no-burn days (typically November–February) under South Coast AQMD Check Before You Burn program. Gas/propane fire pits are generally permitted year-round. Household trash burning is prohibited.
Open burning in Thousand Oaks is regulated by the Ventura County Fire Department and South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD). Recreational fires in portable fire pits are allowed with restrictions. Agricultural burning requires SCAQMD permits. No open burning of trash, yard waste, or construction debris is permitted. All outdoor fires must comply with SCAQMD Rule 444. The Ventura County Fire Department may issue burn bans during high fire danger periods, especially during Santa Ana wind events.
Illegal open burning violates SCAQMD Rule 444 with fines of $50 for the first offense, up to $500 for repeat violations. Burning during a burn ban carries enhanced penalties of $500-$1,000. Starting a fire that escapes and damages property may result in criminal charges and civil liability for suppression costs (typically $500-$5,000+ per fire engine hour).
Thousand Oaks, CA
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Thousand Oaks, CA
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Thousand Oaks, CA
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Thousand Oaks, CA
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Thousand Oaks, CA
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Thousand Oaks, CA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Ventura County.
See how other cities in Ventura County handle outdoor burning.
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