Brush Clearance: Altadena vs Castaic
How do brush clearance rules compare between Altadena, CA and Castaic, CA?
Altadena and Castaic have similar restriction levels.
Altadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Altadena is largely in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. LA County Fire requires year-round brush clearance within 200 feet of any structure and 10 feet of combustible fences and roadways.
View full Altadena rules →Castaic, CA
Los Angeles County
Brush clearance is critical in unincorporated LA County, which includes extensive wildfire-prone areas. LA County Fire Department requires 200 ft vegetation clearance from structures and 10 ft from combustible fences/roadways. Year-round compliance is mandatory. No brush clearance on red flag days.
View full Castaic rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Castaic |
|---|---|---|
| Defensible Space | 200 ft around structures | - |
| Fence/Driveway Clearance | 10 ft | - |
| Grass Height | ≤ 3 inches | - |
| Tree Limb Up | ≥ 6 ft above ground | - |
| Authority | LA County Fire Code Title 32 + PRC 4291 | - |
| Clearance | - | 200 ft from structures |
| Fences/Roads | - | 10 ft clearance |
| Compliance | - | Year-round required |
| Red Flag Days | - | No brush clearing allowed |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Altadena FAQ
How much brush clearance is required in Altadena?
200 feet of defensible space around any structure if you are in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, per LA County Fire and California PRC 4291.
Castaic FAQ
How much brush clearance is required in LA County?
200 feet around structures in fire hazard areas. The first 100 feet must be cleared or maintained with fire-resistant landscaping under 3 inches. The outer 100 feet requires thinning and dead material removal.
When is the brush clearance deadline?
Work must be completed by June 1 each year. Inspections begin May 1. You'll receive a clearance notice from LA County Fire Department in early spring.
What happens if I don't clear my brush?
LA County Fire will hire contractors to clear your property and bill you (typically $1,500-$5,000+). A lien is placed on the property for unpaid costs. Contact the Forestry Division at (818) 890-5719 with questions.
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