Brush Clearance: Altadena vs Lakewood
How do brush clearance rules compare between Altadena, CA and Lakewood, CA?
Lakewood 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 →Lakewood, CA
Los Angeles County
California PRC §4291 requires 100-foot defensible space in fire hazard zones. Lakewood may impose additional clearance requirements.
View full Lakewood rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Lakewood |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Zone 1 | - | 0 to 30 ft: lean, clean, green |
| Zone 2 | - | 30 to 100 ft: reduced fuel |
| State Law | - | CA PRC §4291 |
| Inspections | - | Annual |
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.
Lakewood FAQ
How much clearance do I need?
100 feet of defensible space if in a fire hazard zone. Two zones with different requirements.
Who inspects?
Lakewood fire department or CAL FIRE conducts annual inspections in fire hazard areas.
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