Agency Approves Fire Pits In Some Of Newport Beach

NEWPORT BEACH (AP) — A state agency has approved a plan for fire rings in some of Newport Beach after years of heated debate over the summertime tradition.

The Orange County Register reports that the California Coastal Commission voted Thursday to approve plans for a mix of wood- and charcoal-burning rings on two of the city's beaches.

A proposal for another 24 rings at Corona del Mar State Beach was not approved after state parks officials argued the Commission didn't have the authority to issue permits for a state-owned beach.

Some residents living near the rings had complained about the smoke, but supporters fought to keep them.

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