Ban on backyard barbecues on certain days in California floated as others push back hard
A mayoral candidate in Los Angeles proposed restricting backyard barbecues on high wildfire risk days, sparking backlash over its potential impact on community traditions. The proposal, which also targeted fire pits and open-flame cooking at restaurants, was blocked by another council member. Critics argued the measure was tone-deaf and failed to address larger causes of wildfires.
- ▪Nithya Raman, a Los Angeles City Council member, proposed banning backyard barbecues on Red Flag Warning days as part of a public safety measure.
- ▪The proposal would have also applied to fire pits and restaurants using open flames for cooking.
- ▪Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez introduced a motion to block the ban, calling it misdirected and insensitive to community practices.
- ▪Red Flag Warning days in Los Angeles are characterized by wind speeds of 25 mph or more and humidity at 15% or less.
- ▪The Democratic Socialists of America supported Raman's prior council campaigns but did not endorse her mayoral run.
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Grilling Ban on backyard barbecues on certain days in California floated as others push back hard LA grilling ban would 'unfairly target neighborhood gatherings and long-standing community traditions' By Teresa Mull Fox News Published May 16, 2026 3:56pm EDT Facebook Twitter Threads Flipboard Comments Print Email Add Fox News on Google close Video Barbecue pitmaster shares his 5 favorite and 'simple' Memorial Day side dishes Josh Cooper, owner of Cooper's Next Level BBQ in Tallahassee, Florida, showed Fox News Digital some of his favorite and easy-to-make side dishes to go with this year's Memorial Day cookout.
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