Morgan Hill, CA – With recent increase in fire activity, higher temperatures, lower fuel moisters, and minimal precipitation in the forecast, the extreme threat of wildfire impacting life, property, or natural resources is observable. Due to the increasing fire danger. CalFire is suspending all burn permits for outdoor residential burning within the State Responsibility area of Santa Clara, Contra Costa and the western portions of Stanislaus and San Joaquin counties.
The suspension takes effect June 29, 2026 and suspends all residential outdoor burning of landscape debris such as branches and leaves.
While outdoor burning of landscape debris by homeowners is no longer allowed, Calfire is asking residents to take that extra time to ensure that they are prepared for wildfires by maintaining a minimum of 100 feet of Defensible Space around every home and building on their property and being prepared to evacuate if the time comes.
Here are some tips to help prepare homes and property:
- Clear all dead and or dying vegetation 100 feet from around all structures.
- Landscape with fire resistant plants and non-flammable ground cover
- Find alternative ways to dispose of landscape debris like chipping or hauling it to a biomass energy or green waste facility.
Campfires within organized campgrounds or on private property that are otherwise permitted will be allowed if the campfire is maintained in such a manner as to prevent its spread to the wildland and other private property. In accordance with Section 4423.2 of the Public Resources Code, state rangers or other authorized agents of the Director of Forestry and Fire Protection may issue restricted temporary burning permits whenever it can be shown that burning or use of open fire is essential for reasons of public health, safety, or welfare. A campfire permit can be obtained at local fire stations or online at PreventWildfireCA.org.
“On behalf of CALFIRE, thank you for making fire safety a top priority,” says Santa Clara Unit Chief Marcus Herndnez. “By establishing and utilizing safe practices, we can all stay one step ahead of wildfires this year and ensure the safety of you and your community.”
For additional information on how to create Defensible Space, be prepared for wildfires, as well as tips to prevent wildfires, visit www.ReadyForWildfire.org
