Berkeley vs Oakland
How do defensible space rules compare between Berkeley, CA and Oakland, CA?
Berkeley, CA
Alameda County
No data available yet for Berkeley.
Oakland, CA
Alameda County
Properties in Oakland Hills Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone must maintain 100 feet of defensible space, clearing brush, trimming trees, and removing combustible debris under PRC 4291 and Oakland Fire Code amendments after the 1991 firestorm.
View full Oakland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Berkeley | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 clearance | - | 0-30 feet |
| Zone 2 reduction | - | 30-100 feet |
| Authority | - | PRC 4291; Oakland Fire Code |
| Funding | - | Measure Q assessment district |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Berkeley FAQ
No FAQs available.
Oakland FAQ
Does this apply to my flatlands home?
Only properties mapped in the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (mostly hills above 580 freeway) face the 100-foot defensible-space requirement; flatlands have lighter rules.
Can I keep my eucalyptus trees?
Eucalyptus is allowed if limbed up, spaced, and maintained, but Oakland encourages removal of flammable non-natives near homes; permits may apply for large trees.
Compare other topics
See how Berkeley and Oakland compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool