San Diego Fire Rules: County lifts burn permit suspension

San Diego County Fire Chief Tony Mecham formally canceled the county's burn permit suspension at 8 a.m. Monday. This action allows property owners with current, valid agricultural and residential permits to resume burning on approved days. The change immediately opens the window for outdoor fires in the region.

Cal Fire defines permissible burning hours as 8 a.m. to sunset. While all agricultural and residential burning requires a permit, agricultural burns must undergo inspection by Cal Fire before ignition. Residential burns may also require inspection, a requirement that varies by location. Residents must contact their neighborhood Cal Fire station to verify local inspection needs and record their intention to burn.

Fire officials emphasize that safe pile burning of forest residue is a critical tool for reducing fire hazards. During this period, state, federal, and local agencies will conduct prescribed burns on public and private lands to improve forest health and resiliency. These efforts aim to manage fuel loads and lower the risk of larger wildfires.

Authorities urge participants to maintain absolute control over their fires at all times. Individuals must follow all safety guidelines and verify that the current date is a permissive burn day before lighting a fire. Officials noted that civil and criminal liability can apply if a fire spreads to another property.

The suspension lift marks a return to standard operational protocols for fire management in the county. Residents must still adhere to permit conditions and local station requirements. The decision aligns with seasonal weather patterns that favor controlled burning.

Cal Fire will continue to monitor conditions and adjust permissive burn days as necessary. The county relies on these managed burns to mitigate risks across its diverse terrain. Property owners remain responsible for ensuring their specific plots meet all legal and safety standards.