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

San Leandro, served by the Alameda County Fire Department (ACFD) through a contract with the City, regulates outdoor burning and recreational fires under the California Fire Code as locally adopted. The city's location in the East Bay lowlands means it has lower wildfire risk than hillside communities, but the dense residential development and proximity of structures in many neighborhoods make fire safety standards essential.

Recreational fires — defined as outdoor fires used for cooking, warmth, or ceremonial purposes — are permitted in approved devices that comply with the following conditions. The fire must be contained in a commercially manufactured portable fire pit, chiminea, or permanently installed outdoor fireplace that is constructed of non-combustible materials and is listed or approved by a recognized testing laboratory. The fire containment area must not exceed 3 feet in diameter (or 3 feet on the longest side for square or rectangular pits). The device must be placed on a non-combustible surface such as concrete, brick, or pavers — not on a wooden deck, grass, or other combustible surface without an approved heat shield. The fire pit must be located at least 15 feet from any structure, fence, overhead branch, or combustible material. The fire must be attended at all times by a responsible adult, and a garden hose connected to a water supply or a fire extinguisher rated at least 4A must be immediately available.

Approved fuels for recreational fires include clean, dry, seasoned firewood; manufactured fire logs (such as Duraflame); natural gas; and propane. Prohibited fuels include trash, yard waste, leaves, treated or painted lumber, plywood, particleboard, cardboard, plastic, rubber, and any material that produces excessive smoke or toxic emissions. The use of accelerants such as gasoline, kerosene, or lighter fluid to start or maintain a fire is strongly discouraged and may constitute a violation if it creates a hazard.

In multi-family residential properties — apartments, condominiums, and townhomes — fire pits and outdoor fireplaces may be further restricted by the property's fire access plan, CC&Rs, or building management rules. Charcoal grills are prohibited on balconies and within 10 feet of combustible building walls or overhangs per the California Fire Code. Only electric or gas barbecue grills are permitted on apartment balconies and covered patios.

Gas and propane fire pits and fire tables are popular alternatives in San Leandro because they are exempt from BAAQMD wood-burning restrictions on Spare the Air days. However, they must still comply with the setback, attendance, and placement requirements.

The Alameda County Fire Department provides fire prevention and suppression services to San Leandro. Residents with questions about fire pit regulations can contact ACFD Fire Prevention at (510) 632-3473.