New rules for Carmel Beach bonfires

The City of Carmel has launched a new pilot program to allow as many as 12 wood-burning fires on the beach, but don’t start striking matches just yet.

The program will allow bonfires between 4 p.m. and 10 p.m. seven days a week, with certain restrictions: a city permit is required, and the fire must be built in city-owned wood-fueled containers. Twelve of the containers will be provided along the beach between 8th Avenue and Martin Way.

Propane-fueled fires will also be allowed, but they must be at least 25 feet from the beach bluff.

The new rules won’t take effect for at least 10 days, meaning the current ban on beach fires will still be in effect this Fourth of July holiday weekend.