Murrieta, CA Outdoor Cooking: Smoker Rules (2026)

Backyard smokers (offset, charcoal, wood-fired, or pellet) are regulated in unincorporated Riverside County as open-flame cooking devices under California Fire Code Section 308.1.4, adopted via Ordinance 787 — the same provision that governs barbecues. The general rule prohibits operating charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking devices on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction, with exceptions for (1) one- and two-family dwellings and (2) balconies/decks protected by an automatic sprinkler system. This means residents of single-family homes and duplexes may use a smoker in the backyard, while apartment and condo residents generally may not place a charcoal or wood smoker on a combustible balcony or within 10 feet of the building unless it is sprinklered. A smoker used for cooking is treated as a cooking appliance, not a 'recreational fire' (which is for warmth/ambiance, CFC 307.4.2) and not 'open burning' (which requires a permit and air-district authorization) — provided it burns clean cooking fuel (charcoal, cooking wood, or pellets) and produces only cooking smoke. Excessive smoke could still raise nuisance concerns. Smokers must be attended and kept clear of combustible vegetation. During red-flag or extreme fire-danger conditions, the Fire Chief can close hazardous fire areas and restrict outdoor open-flame use (Ord. 787, Section 104.13); given the County's wildfire risk, keep smokers well clear of dry brush and never leave coals unattended.