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Verify locally. This page reflects publicly available information as of May 2025. Always confirm requirements with your local building department.
25 ft
Open fire setback
Required
Masonry permits
Nov–Feb
Curtailment season
SMAQMD
Air quality authority

Overview

Sacramento falls within the Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District (SMAQMD) Spare the Air program. Sacramento's valley location creates frequent winter temperature inversions, making curtailment days common November through February. The city has a permissive outdoor living climate (warm summers, mild winters) that drives demand for fire features — but the curtailment program means wood-burning features sit unused many winter evenings.

Building Permits

City of Sacramento Community Development — 916-808-8300, cityofsacramento.org/community-development. Sacramento County Building Inspection for unincorporated areas. Permanent features require permits; portable features do not. Gas work requires a licensed California C-36 or B contractor.

SMAQMD Spare the Air

Check airquality.org for curtailment status November through February. Sign up for Spare the Air alerts at SMAQMD's website. Fines for violations. Gas fire features are not restricted.

Department Contacts

DepartmentContactPurpose
Sacramento Community Developmentcityofsacramento.org/cd / 916-808-8300Building permits
SMAQMD Spare the Airairquality.org / 916-874-4800Curtailment days
Disclaimer: This page is for general informational purposes only. Always verify with local authorities before constructing or operating any fire feature.