Brush Clearance: Camarillo vs Ojai
How do brush clearance rules compare between Camarillo, CA and Ojai, CA?
Camarillo and Ojai have similar restriction levels.
Camarillo, CA
Ventura County
Camarillo Municipal Code Chapter 9.24 requires property owners to maintain defensible space by clearing dry brush, weeds, and combustible vegetation. The Ventura County Fire Protection District enforces 100-foot defensible space requirements around structures in fire hazard areas, with annual inspections typically beginning in spring.
View full Camarillo rules →Ojai, CA
Ventura County
Ojai requires 100 feet of defensible space around all structures per VCFPD standards and CA PRC 4291. Properties in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (most of Ojai) must maintain Zone 1 (0-30 feet lean/clean) and Zone 2 (30-100 feet reduced fuel). Annual clearance by June 1.
View full Ojai rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Camarillo | Ojai |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 Clearance | 0-30 feet from structures | - |
| Zone 2 Clearance | 30-100 feet from structures | - |
| Inspection Period | Annual, typically spring | - |
| State Law | PRC 4291 (100-ft defensible space) | - |
| Fire District | (805) 389-9710 | - |
| Zone 1 | - | 0-30 feet: lean/clean zone |
| Zone 2 | - | 30-100 feet: reduced fuel zone |
| Annual Deadline | - | June 1 |
| Steep Slopes | - | Up to 200 feet clearance |
| VCFPD Inspections | - | May-June annually |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Camarillo FAQ
How much brush do I need to clear in Camarillo?
Under California PRC 4291 and local fire codes, you must maintain 100 feet of defensible space around structures (or to the property line). Zone 1 (0-30 feet) requires the most intensive clearing. Zone 2 (30-100 feet) requires fuel reduction and plant spacing.
When are brush clearance inspections in Camarillo?
The Ventura County Fire Protection District typically begins annual inspections in spring. Property owners should complete clearance before inspection season. Contact the Fire District at (805) 389-9710 for current schedules.
What happens if I don't clear my brush?
The city may perform the clearance and charge the property owner for all costs plus administrative fees under CMC Chapter 9.24. Costs can be placed as a lien on the property. State law fines up to $500 per violation may also apply.
Ojai FAQ
How much brush clearance do I need in Ojai?
100 feet of defensible space around all structures. Zone 1 (0-30 feet) must be lean and clean. Zone 2 (30-100 feet) requires reduced vegetation density by 50%.
When must clearance be completed?
By June 1 annually. VCFPD begins inspections in May. Start early as Ojai properties with native chaparral often require significant work.
What happened during the Thomas Fire?
The 2017 Thomas Fire burned through much of the Ojai Valley, destroying homes and demonstrating the critical importance of defensible space. Enhanced enforcement followed.
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