Brush Clearance: Altadena vs Torrance
How do brush clearance rules compare between Altadena, CA and Torrance, CA?
Torrance 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 →Torrance, CA
Los Angeles County
Properties in fire hazard areas must maintain defensible space per CA PRC 4291. Torrance has limited wildfire zones but brush clearance is enforced where applicable.
View full Torrance rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Torrance |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| State Law | - | CA PRC 4291 — 100 ft clearance |
| Zone 1 | - | 0-30 ft lean/clean/green |
| Zone 2 | - | 30-100 ft reduce/remove |
| Enforcement | - | Torrance Fire Department |
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.
Torrance FAQ
Do I need to clear brush in Torrance?
Yes. The adopted California Fire Code requires proper vegetation management and removal of dead vegetation for fire safety.
Who enforces brush clearance in Torrance?
The Fire Department's Community Risk Reduction Division enforces fire code vegetation requirements.
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