Burbank Backyard Fire Regulations Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

Burbank adopts the California Fire Code with local amendments. For residential backyard fires, the California Fire Code Section 307 governs open burning and recreational fires. Recreational fires — defined as fires contained within an approved fire pit, chiminea, or portable outdoor fireplace — are allowed in residential backyards on days when SCAQMD does not declare a no-burn restriction. The fire must be contained in a non-combustible appliance; open ground fires and burn barrels are prohibited. The fuel area of a recreational fire may not exceed 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height. A minimum clearance of 10 feet from any structure, fence, patio cover, tree, or other combustible material must be maintained at all times. Fire extinguishing equipment — either a connected garden hose or a portable fire extinguisher rated for the type of fire — must be immediately available during use. Fires may never be left unattended and must be fully extinguished before the occupant leaves the area.

Burbank's hillside areas near the Verdugo Mountains are designated as Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (VHFHSZ) under California Public Resources Code. Properties within VHFHSZ must maintain a 100-foot defensible space clearance and may face additional local fire safety requirements including seasonal restrictions on any outdoor open flame during high-wind or Red Flag Warning conditions. The Burbank Fire Prevention Bureau can issue property-specific guidance for hillside locations. Contact the Fire Prevention Bureau at (818) 238-3473 for questions about specific properties.