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

The Downey Fire Prevention Division enforces the California Fire Code with local amendments and coordinates with the SCAQMD to regulate all outdoor burning activities. Recreational fires — defined as outdoor fires used for cooking, warmth, or ceremonial purposes with a fuel area no larger than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height — are permitted in residential backyards subject to safety requirements.

All backyard fires must be contained within an approved fire pit, fire ring, or chiminea and must maintain at least 10 feet of clearance from all structures, fences, overhanging branches, and combustible materials. A water source such as a garden hose connected to a water supply, or a portable fire extinguisher with a minimum 4-A rating, must be within immediate reach at all times during the fire. Fires must never be left unattended, and must be fully extinguished — with no remaining embers — before the owner leaves the area or retires for the night.

Wood-burning backyard fires are subject to SCAQMD no-burn day orders. Before starting any wood fire, residents must verify the day's burn status at AQMD.gov. Open burning — including burning trash, cardboard, yard clippings, leaves, and construction debris — is prohibited at all times throughout Downey as an urban area. The Downey Fire Department can be reached at (562) 904-7344 for questions about specific fire safety situations.