Fires are finally allowed on these SLO County beaches — but there’s a catch
San Luis Obispo County beachgoers can finally turn up the heat on a pair of Central Coast beaches this summer.
According to a news release from the Port San Luis Harbor District, beachgoers can participate in the district’s first-ever propane fire pits pilot program at Olde Port Beach and Avila Beach this summer through Sept. 15.
Previously, the district explored continuing its bonfire ring program in 2019, but decided to prohibit use of fire rings in 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic started, citing an elevated risk of fires during peak season and an increase in debris left by bonfires on the beaches.
Launched July 15, the propane fire pit pilot program offers the first chance in four years to have fires on the beach, though traditional wood-burning fires are still prohibited, according to the release.
Only hand-carried, made-for purpose propane fire pits are allowed, as wood-burning fires cause more air quality issues and pose fire hazards compared to propane, according to the release.
Propane fires are permitted on Avila Beach between San Francisco and San Juan streets and on Olde Port Beach from the base of the launch ramp as far west as the rocky outcrop, according to the release.
The Harbor Patrol and Condor Security will monitor the beaches to ensure compliance with the new rules, and signs have been posted to inform the public of where the fires are allowed, according to the release.
This story was originally published August 7, 2024 at 9:48 AM.
