zone zero
defensible space
updates
On August 18, 2026, California's Board of Forestry and Fire Protection adopted tough new rules to help protect communities from fires. Homeowners in wildfire-prone areas must limit plants within 5 feet of their house. Local fire departments and state agencies will enforce the new rules through annual home inspections.
zone zero
0-5 FEET FROM STRUCTURES- Immediate safety zone
The first 1 foot from the base of the home (or out to the edge of the roof eaves, whichever is farther) must be completely free of all vegetation, combustible mulch, wood chips, and bark. Outer Zone 0 (1 to 5 feet): Allow low-growth, well-spaced, and maintained non-woody plants (such as succulents or native low ground cover) if neatly grouped and separated. Attachments: Mitigate or upgrade combustible fencing and storage attached to, or within 5 feet of the structure.
zone one
5-30 FEET FROM STRUCTURES
Remove all dead plants, grass, and weeds. Clear dead leaves and pine needles from the yard, roof, and rain gutters. Trim overhanging tree branches so they stay at least 10 feet away from chimneys. Move wood piles and heavy combustible storage out into Zone 2.
zone two
30-100 FEET FROM STRUCTURES
Remove all dead plants, grass, and weeds. Clear dead leaves and pine needles from the yard, roof, and rain gutters. Trim overhanging tree branches so they stay at least 10 feet away from chimneys. Move wood piles and heavy combustible storage out into Zone 2.
recommendation:
Boards and homeowners should request a defensible space inspection to determine whether their properties meet new fire safety requirements.