Brush Clearance: Altadena vs Downey
How do brush clearance rules compare between Altadena, CA and Downey, CA?
Downey has fewer restrictions than Altadena.
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 →Downey, CA
Los Angeles County
Downey requires property owners to maintain vegetation to prevent fire hazards. Dead, decayed, or hazardous vegetation is classified as a public nuisance under the municipal code. State law (PRC 4291) requires 100 ft defensible space in fire hazard zones.
View full Downey rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Downey |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Local Code | - | Nuisance abatement for hazardous vegetation |
| State Law | - | PRC 4291 - 100 ft defensible space |
| Zone 1 | - | 0-30 ft lean/clean/green |
| Enforcement | - | Code Enforcement |
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.
Downey FAQ
Do I need to clear brush on my Downey property?
Yes. Property owners must maintain vegetation and prevent fire hazards. The Fire Code requires 10-foot clearance along roadways.
Who enforces vegetation clearance in Downey?
The Code Enforcement Division at (562) 904-2392 handles property maintenance violations including overgrown vegetation.
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