🔥 The Do’s and Don’ts of Pile Burning for Property Owners in California

When used correctly, pile burning is one of the most effective and affordable ways for California landowners to reduce excess vegetation, maintain defensible space, and prevent catastrophic wildfire. But pile burning still involves risk — and in California, it must be done with care, proper permitting, and professional guidance.

Whether you’re managing small debris piles or large forest fuels, following the right practices can make your project safer, cleaner, and legally compliant.

✅ The Do’s of Pile Burning

1. Obtain the Required Permits

Before you burn, always contact your local Cal Fire office and Air Pollution Control District.

• You may need both a Burn Permit (PRC §4422) and a Smoke Management Permit (Title 17 CCR).

• Burn only on designated “permissive burn days.”
  Burning without the proper authorization can lead to fines and full liability for suppression costs.

2. Choose Safe Conditions

Only burn when weather and fuel moisture conditions are favorable.

• Ideal: calm winds (below 5 mph), cool temperatures, and moderate humidity.

• Avoid burning on Red Flag Warnings, during high winds, or extended drought periods.

• Keep piles at least 10 feet from trees, fences, or structures.

3. Build Smart, Dry Piles

• Use only natural vegetation—no trash, lumber, or treated materials.

• Stack material loosely to allow air flow and complete combustion.

• Keep piles about 4 ft x 4 ft unless larger burns are approved by Cal Fire.

• Clear 10 feet of bare mineral soil around each pile.

• Cover the top of each pile with a tarp or burn cover to keep it dry through the winter. Dry piles ignite faster, burn cleaner, and create far less smoke.

4. Always Monitor Your Burn

• Keep a shovel, hose, and water source ready.

• Stay present the entire time the pile is burning.

• Stir and soak ashes when done—cold to the touch before leaving the site.

5. Notify Your Neighbors

Inform nearby residents and your local fire department before burning. It helps prevent false alarms and demonstrates your commitment to responsible fire use.

6. Work with a Certified Burn Boss (CARX)

Hiring or consulting with a California Certified Burn Boss (CARX) can make the process significantly safer and more defensible under the law.

A CARX professional:

• Ensures compliance with Cal Fire and air district regulations.

• Creates a site-specific burn plan that includes weather, safety, and contingency procedures.

• Can make your project eligible for coverage under the California Prescribed Fire Claims Fund, which helps pay for suppression costs or damages if an approved burn escapes.

• Operates under the gross negligence liability standard rather than strict liability, providing greater legal protection for the landowner.

In short — partnering with a Certified Burn Boss makes your pile burn safer, smarter, and legally protected.

❌ The Don’ts of Pile Burning

1. Don’t Burn Without a Permit
During fire season (typically May–October), burn suspensions are common. Burning without a valid permit can result in citations and full financial liability for suppression costs.

2. Don’t Burn on Windy or Hot Days
Even a small ember can travel hundreds of feet in dry conditions and start a wildfire.

3. Don’t Burn Wet Material or Trash
Wet fuel creates heavy smoke, while prohibited items like plastic, lumber, and garbage release toxic pollutants and violate state air quality laws.

4. Don’t Leave Smoldering Piles
Reignite risk is high in California’s dry climate. Always stir, soak, and check with your hand before leaving the site.

5. Don’t Ignore Smoke Impacts
Be mindful of sensitive neighbors, schools, or hospitals nearby. Poor smoke management can lead to complaints or violations under Title 17 Smoke Management Guidelines.

6. Don’t Assume You’re Automatically Covered
If a pile burn escapes and causes damage, you may be held liable unless your project was approved and led by a CARX or done under an official burn plan coordinated with Cal Fire.

🌲 Better Together: Safe Burning Through Partnerships

The Healthy Forest Alliance encourages landowners to work with local Fire Safe Councils, Resource Conservation Districts, and Prescribed Burn Associations (PBAs) to learn and apply safe pile burning techniques.

Our team can help you:

• Obtain permits and coordinate with local agencies

• Develop a compliant burn plan

• Connect with Certified Burn Bosses (CARX) for professional oversight

• Access equipment, training, and cost-share programs

💧 Good Fire Is Planned Fire

Pile burning is a valuable tool for fuel reduction and community protection — but only when done responsibly.

By following these Do’s and Don’ts, keeping your piles dry, and working with a Certified Burn Boss, you can safely reduce wildfire risk while protecting your property and community.

Learn More:

Visit our Prescribed Fire Planning page to learn about permits, CARX services, and community training opportunities:
👉 www.healthyforestalliance.org