California Burn Ban Laws (2026)
California has two completely separate burn restriction systems that operate independently of each other. Understanding which one applies to you — and when — is critical, because violating either one can result in significant fines and, if a fire starts, personal liability for millions of dollars in suppression costs.
California's Two Burn Restriction Systems
System 1: Air Quality Curtailments
Issued by local Air Quality Management Districts (AQMDs). These cover indoor wood-burning fireplaces and wood stoves. They are triggered by weather conditions that trap smoke and degrade air quality.
Who issues: Local AQMDs (Bay Area, South Coast, Sacramento, etc.)
What's covered: Indoor fireplaces, wood stoves, outdoor fire pits
Penalty: Up to $1,000/day per Health & Safety Code § 42402
System 2: Fire Restrictions
Issued by CAL FIRE and the U.S. Forest Service. These cover outdoor burning, campfires, and charcoal grills on state and federal land. They are triggered by fire danger conditions.
Who issues: CAL FIRE, U.S. Forest Service
What's covered: Campfires, brush burning, charcoal grills on public land
Penalty: Up to $1,000 fine, 6 months jail per PRC § 4571
Check Current Status
Air Quality Curtailments (Indoor Burning)
Outdoor Fire Restrictions
Penalties for Violating California Burn Restrictions
| Violation | Penalty | Statute |
|---|---|---|
| Violating AQMD wood-burning curtailment | Up to $1,000/day; up to $5,000 for repeat violations | H&S Code § 42402 |
| Campfire during CAL FIRE restriction | Misdemeanor: up to $1,000 fine, 6 months jail | PRC § 4571 |
| Campfire in National Forest closure | Federal misdemeanor: up to $5,000 fine, 6 months jail | 36 CFR 261.52 |
| Fire escapes and causes wildfire | Civil liability for all suppression costs + property damage | PRC § 4435 |