Burbank vs Palmdale
How do brush clearance rules compare between Burbank, CA and Palmdale, CA?
Palmdale has fewer restrictions than Burbank.
Burbank, CA
Los Angeles County
Properties in fire hazard zones must maintain 100 ft of defensible space per CA PRC 4291. Burbank Fire Department enforces brush clearance in hillside areas near the Verdugo Mountains. Zone 1 (0-30 ft) requires lean/clean/green landscaping; Zone 2 (30-100 ft) requires fuel reduction.
View full Burbank rules →Palmdale, CA
Los Angeles County
California PRC §4291 requires 100-foot defensible space in fire hazard zones. Palmdale may impose additional clearance requirements.
View full Palmdale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Burbank | Palmdale |
|---|---|---|
| Defensible Space | 100 ft from structures | - |
| Zone 1 | 0-30 ft: lean, clean, green | 0 to 30 ft: lean, clean, green |
| Zone 2 | 30-100 ft: reduce fuel load | 30 to 100 ft: reduced fuel |
| State Law | CA PRC 4291 | CA PRC §4291 |
| Local Risk | Verdugo Mountain hillside areas | - |
| Inspections | - | Annual |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Burbank FAQ
How short must weeds be in Burbank fire zones?
Weeds and grasses must be cut to 3 inches or less throughout the entire clearance area per the Fire Hazard Reduction Program.
How far must trees be from my roof?
All foliage and branches on trees over 18 feet must be at least 5 feet above the roof and 10 feet from chimneys.
Palmdale 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?
Palmdale fire department or CAL FIRE conducts annual inspections in fire hazard areas.
Compare other topics
See how Burbank and Palmdale 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