California Campfire Permits

You can help protect the forest from wildfires by knowing and following rules for the safe use of fire. Please obtain a California Campfire Permit if you plan to build a campfire, use a barbecue, use a lantern or use a stove outside any developed recreation area (campground or picnic area).

Permits are available free of charge at offices of the Forest Service, the Bureau of Land Management and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) or by visiting ReadyForWildfire.org . Remember that regulations governing campfires are specific to each National Forest and change with weather conditions and the seasons.

You are responsible to know the current restrictions for the area you are visiting. Please call 530-233-5811 for current fire-safety restrictions.

Campfire Permit FAQs

How much do they cost? - California Campfire Permits are free. 

Where can I obtain a permit? - Any Forest Service office, California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection office or Bureau of Land Management office.

How long is the permit good for? - Your campfire permit is valid from the date issued until the end of the calendar year (December 31st).

Where can I use it? - The permit may be used in most National Forests in California and on Bureau of Land Management land. For National Forests in Southern California, please call the individual forest for local information and regulations. Campfire permits are not required in developed campgrounds and picnic areas on the Modoc National Forest.

When you obtain a Campfire Permit you agree to:

• Clear all flammable material away from the fire for a minimum of five feet in all directions to prevent escape of the fire. Meadows make poor campsite locations as you will destroy sections of the meadow with the campfire and the clearance.
• Have a shovel and ample water available at the campfire site for preparing and extinguishing campfires.
• Have a responsible person in attendance at all times. Leave the permit with that person and make sure they are aware of the terms of the permit.
• Extinguish the campfire with water every night when going to bed and when breaking camp or leaving for any period of time.
• Know how to safely build and extinguish a campfire.