Huntington Beach, Calif., July 23, 2013 - After a five month long petition to save the bonfires rings along the coast, The City of Huntington Beach and the Huntington Beach Marketing and Visitors Bureau are pleased to announce that Huntington Beach's beach bonfire rings will stay and will continue to burn on.

The city of Huntington Beach has gained international fame for their fight to save the Southern California beach bonfire pits. On Friday, July 12th, the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) cast their vote and decided to leave the fire pits in Huntington Beach alone. The rally cry "keep your mitts off our pits" was heard throughout the city.

 "These bonfires are a deeply rooted tradition in Huntington Beach," says Huntington Beach Mayor, Connie Boardman. "It was important for us to make a significant effort to save the fire pits in Southern California not only because of the clear demand of the community but also because these bonfire rings are a vital part of the California experience. We were immediately overwhelmed with support and are delighted to announce that the Huntington Beach fire pits are here to stay!"

These fire rings have been an important part of the city's beach culture and an affordable means of entertainment for more than 60 years. This victory will ensure that many generations to come will be able to enjoy the magic of a bonfire in Huntington Beach.

The amendment to the ruling made by SCAQMD stated all beach bonfire rings in their jurisdiction must be 700 feet from all residences. Due to the wide beaches in Huntington Beach, Bolsa Chica State Beach, Huntington City Beach, and Huntington State Beach will keep all 530 of their combined beach bonfire pits.

About the Huntington Beach Marketing and Visitors Bureau

The Huntington Beach Marketing and Visitors Bureau is the official destination marketing organization of Huntington Beach, Surf City USA®. One of Southern California's premier coastal destinations, Huntington Beach is the ideal location for a California family vacation, relaxing weekend getaway, or group conference.

 

With 10 miles of wide-open sandy California beaches, Huntington Beach is a destination of choice for vacationers and business travelers alike. To plan your Surf City USA® vacation, or to learn more about Huntington Beach, visit the Huntington Beach Marketing and Visitors Bureau website at www.SurfCityUSA.com or call 800-729-6232.

###

Surf City USA® is a registered mark of the Huntington Beach Marketing and Visitors Bureau.

Media Contact:

Madison Fisher, Director of Marketing and Communications

Ph: 714-969-3492, ext 208, Madison@surfcityusa.com

Rachel Volbert, Communications and Social Media Coordinator

Ph: 714-969-3492, ext 212, Rachel@surfcityusa.com