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Jun 05, 2025

County supervisor considers saving San Diego beach fire pits | cbs8.com

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SAN DIEGO — San Diego's beloved beach fire pits are at risk of being extinguished due to the city's budget deficit, but a county official is considering stepping in to save them.

The city's 184 fire pits are set to be phased out starting this summer as San Diego grapples with a $300+ million budget shortfall. However, County Supervisor Chair Terra Lawson-Remer is exploring the possibility of county intervention to preserve these popular coastal fixtures. In a recent newsletter to constituents, Lawson-Remer asked if the county should step in on a one-time basis to save the fire pits.

The response was overwhelming, with hundreds of replies in less than a week. An impressive 82% of respondents supported the move.

"It's clear these fire pits are more than just concrete rings in the sand. They're a source of connection, tradition, and joy for families across San Diego," Lawson-Remer told CBS 8.

Many residents expressed their attachment to the fire pits.

"It's not just fun and unique, but a great way for us parents to keep the kids off their devices and enjoying the great outdoors. We must preserve the fire pits," one respondent wrote.

Another shared, "We celebrated many birthdays with our kids and had great Girl Scout outings around these pits over the past 35 years."

Some residents highlighted the broader impact of the fire pits, with one noting, "They are a great source of fellowship for folks in the recovery community. I believe they're also a countywide tourism asset, just like our campgrounds."

Beach-goers like Jonathan Ranon are disappointed by the potential loss of the fire pits. "It's a great experience with the bonfire and then just unwinding for the day," Ranon said.

Chris Nguyen, another fire pit enthusiast, added, "Obviously, it's a great way to socialize. Have groups come out. You don't always have to go out and spend money on the town."

While the majority of feedback was positive, Lawson-Remer's office did receive some negative comments, primarily concerning pollution and alternative uses for the funds. If the county decides to intervene, saving the fire pits would likely fall under a community enhancement grant, which is designed to improve quality of life.

Ranon emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, "Once the city removes them - that's it... It's going to be a lot more effort to get them back, for sure." As the debate continues, many San Diegans hope the city's financial situation will improve, allowing the fire pits to remain a permanent fixture in the budget and on the beaches.