Pomona Fire Pit Rules Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

Fire pits in Pomona are governed by the California Fire Code as adopted with LA County local amendments, enforced by the Los Angeles County Fire Department. Portable, commercially manufactured fire pits — both wood-burning and gas or propane fueled — are generally permitted without a separate permit as long as they comply with the California Fire Code standards for recreational fires. The fire pit must maintain a fuel area of no more than 3 feet in diameter and flames must not exceed 2 feet in height. A setback of at least 10 feet must be maintained from any structure, fence, property line, overhead obstruction, or combustible vegetation.

Wood-burning fire pits must be equipped with a spark arrestor or mesh safety screen with openings no larger than 1/2 inch to prevent embers from escaping. Only clean, dry, seasoned firewood or commercially manufactured fire logs may be burned. Burning of treated wood, construction materials, paper products (other than fire starters), or any non-wood material is prohibited. Wood-burning fire pits are subject to SCAQMD mandatory no-burn day restrictions — when a no-burn day is declared, all wood-burning fire pits must remain unlit. Gas and propane fire pits are exempt from no-burn restrictions and may be used year-round.

Permanent built-in fire pits, fire tables, and outdoor fireplace structures require a building permit from Pomona's Development Services Department. Gas-line connections must be installed by a licensed plumber and inspected before use. Built-in units must meet the same setback requirements as portable models and must comply with the California Building Code for masonry and gas appliance installations. The LA County Fire Department may inspect permanent fire features as part of routine fire prevention surveys.

Residents should be aware that Pomona's inland location in the eastern San Gabriel Valley produces hot, dry conditions during summer and fall months. During Red Flag Warning conditions declared by the National Weather Service, the LA County Fire Department may issue temporary orders restricting all outdoor open flames, including gas fire pits. Check the LACoFD website or call the local station for current fire weather conditions.