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California Open Burning Rules (2026)

Restricted: A free CAL FIRE residential burn permit (annual, May 1–Apr 30) is required to burn vegetation in piles up to 4x4 ft; clear 10 ft around the pile, keep water and an adult attendant.

RestrictedVerified Jun 18, 2026
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A free CAL FIRE residential burn permit (annual, May 1–Apr 30) is required to burn vegetation in piles up to 4x4 ft; clear 10 ft around the pile, keep water and an adult attendant. A permissive burn day from the local air district is also required.

Official source: burnpermit.fire.ca.gov →

General legal information, not legal advice — verify important decisions with a licensed attorney.

Open Burning Rules in states bordering California

The same rule in each neighboring state LawLert has verified, from that state’s own official source.

  • ArizonaConditional

    On state trust land, open/debris burning is governed by DFFM fire-restriction stages and local rules; many areas also require county air-quality burn permits. Allowances tighten as Stage I/II restrictions are imposed during fire season.

    Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: dffm.az.gov · Full Arizona rule →

  • NevadaConditional

    Open burning on state lands is regulated by NDF and restricted during fire season. Air-quality open-burn permits are also required in some areas. Burning is banned or curtailed under posted fire restrictions; violations are a misdemeanor (up to $1,000).

    Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: forestry.nv.gov · Full Nevada rule →

  • OregonConditional

    Debris/slash burning either requires an ODF permit or is prohibited, set at the local ODF district level. A burn permit is required during fire season; some districts require permits year-round. All burning may be banned as fire danger rises.

    Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: oregon.gov · Full Oregon rule →

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