OC Line: Flare up over Newport Beach’s fire pits

Generations of Southern Californians have warmed themselves by the flickering light of the fire pits at the public beaches of Newport Beach. But now the city wants to eliminate them, calling the iconic devices a health hazard—and the South Coast Air Quality Management District might agree.

Standing in the city’s way, though, are beachgoers and the California Coastal Commission, who say the pits are an integral part of California coastal life.

Who’ll win this battle of the bonfires?

KCRW’s Eric Roy speaks with Gustavo Arellano of the OC Weeklyabout the fight over fire light.