San Diego faces a significant budget shortfall of $258 million, prompting Mayor Todd Gloria to propose cuts that included the removal of beach fire rings, a popular amenity for residents and visitors alike.
In a response aimed at preserving these cherished public spaces, the county has intervened with a $135,000 grant to fund their maintenance for the fiscal year 2026, which spans from July 1 to June 30.
The San Diego City Council approved its budget on June 10, including the proposed cuts, leading to the county’s decision to step in and keep the fire rings operational.
This grant will serve as a financial backstop, enabling the city to maintain responsibility for the operation of the fire rings while ensuring they remain accessible to the community.
Beach fire rings are designated areas where San Diego residents can enjoy fires, provided they follow specific regulations; open beach fires outside these containers are prohibited, and there are restrictions on using fire pits during certain hours.
Supervisor Terra Lawson-Remer, vice chair of the Board of Supervisors, emphasized the importance of preserving these fire rings as part of San Diego’s community fabric.
“I believe in protecting the places that bring us together,” she stated. “These fire pits are part of our shared story as San Diegans, places where people connect across generations and backgrounds. Over the years, hundreds of individuals have shared their cherished memories of enjoying the fire pits.
“In a time when life has gotten so expensive for so many people, having somewhere free to go and enjoy the beautiful outdoors is invaluable, allowing families, neighbors, and children to come together. This effort provides the community with time to collaborate on a long-term solution while safeguarding an asset that is integral to our region.
I’m grateful to Council President Joe LaCava for his partnership in this initiative.”
During discussions surrounding the city’s budget for fiscal year 2026, LaCava noted the overwhelming public sentiment against the elimination of beach fire rings.
“The public spoke up about the elimination of the fire rings,” LaCava remarked. “Supervisor Terra Lawson-Remer listened and offered a one-time grant to fund the rings for another year. This will give us the necessary time to find sustainable funding options.
The rings will be placed strategically to minimize any negative impacts while ensuring maximum enjoyment for residents and visitors.
LaCava also commended Lawson-Remer’s proactive approach in addressing the budget shortfall while restoring valued community assets.
“I want to thank her for stepping up and for her leadership in this matter,” he said. “We will ensure that when we restore those fire rings, it is done thoughtfully and safely, allowing everyone to enjoy this feature without harming our environment.
The initial proposal to remove the beach fire rings drew sharp criticism from the local community and officials alike. Even the California Coastal Commission entered the discussion, asserting in a recent letter to Mayor Gloria that beach fire rings are among the region’s most beloved amenities.
The commission warned that eliminating them would restrict lower-cost public access to coastal areas, which is safeguarded under the California Coastal Act.
The California Coastal Act, adopted in 1976, aims to protect the state’s coastline while balancing development, environmental preservation, public accessibility, and recreational opportunities.
The act also established the California Coastal Commission, a regulatory body tasked with implementing and enforcing its provisions to protect public interests along the coast.
As regulations regarding beach fires vary across California, it remains crucial for San Diegans to understand specific rules in their area.
To secure a fire ring on San Diego beaches, it’s recommended to arrive early, as many rings operate on a first-come, first-served basis. With limited quantities available, demand can be high.
San Diego’s designated beach fire regulations include prohibitions against open beach fires outside of designated containers, as well as restrictions on fires between midnight and 5 a.m.
Additionally, residents and visitors are not permitted to burn trash, which ensures a more pleasant environment and protects coastal ecosystems.
Currently, allowed fuel types for the fire pits include wood, charcoal, or paper products, with restrictions dictating that flames must not exceed a height of 12 inches above the upper edge of the fire container.
Furthermore, users are reminded to fully extinguish their fires before leaving the area, with coals needing to be either removed or deposited in designated hot coal containers.
In San Diego, approximately 180 beach fire rings can be found across popular locations such as Pacific Beach, Mission Beach, and Ocean Beach.
Many of these fire rings are seasonal, available primarily during summer months. Specific locations include La Jolla Shores, Mission Bay Park, and various areas within the Mission Bay region, providing ample opportunities for families to gather and enjoy warm evenings by the beach.
The recent grant from the county serves as a vital lifeline for these public amenities until a long-term funding solution can be secured, ensuring the community continues to enjoy bonfires by the ocean for years to come.
image source from：https://timesofsandiego.com/politics/2025/06/17/countys-135000-grant-saves-beach-fire-rings-for-summer/
