State Lawmakers: Keep the Fire Rings

The California Legislature adopted a resolution Monday strengthening the support for beachside fire rings in California, according to the office of Assemblyman Travis Allen (R-Huntington Beach.)
 
Assembly Concurrent Resolution 52, which was authored by Allen and approved by the Assembly's Committee on Natural Resources last month, is a testament to the legislature's opinion on the fire rings throughout California. It passed in the Senate on Monday. In a news release, Allen, who is a surfer, said beach bonfires are a "safe and inexpensive recreational activity" which should be enjoyed by the community.

"I am honored to join my fellow legislators in honoring our beaches and the timeless community pastimes that our beaches provide,” Allen said. 

The battle over the beachside fire rings has resulted in heated debates in various communities. Orange County has more than 600 fire rings scattered across local beaches. The city of Newport Beach has requested removal of its 60 fire rings citing air quality health concerns, while other cities like Huntington Beach prefer to keep them in place to preserve the California beach lifestyle and traditions.

According to the news release, the fire rings in Huntington Beach bring in more than $1 million each year in revenue to the city and the California State Parks of Orange County receives more than 11.9 million visitors annually, which equates to more than $19 million dollars in revenue. 

Last week the South Coast Air Quality Management District announced possible changes to its proposed ban on the fire rings. If approved by the AQMD board in July, the proposed amendment will allow each city to make its own decision on the matter. 
 
“California has a wonderful history and beach culture that is deeply woven into our communities, especially in Southern California," Allen said. "Beach bonfires positively contribute to communities culturally and economically. ACR 52 further highlights a lifestyle that has brought people together for generations."  

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