Wildfire Zones: Camarillo vs Simi Valley
How do wildfire zones rules compare between Camarillo, CA and Simi Valley, CA?
Camarillo and Simi Valley have similar restriction levels.
Camarillo, CA
Ventura County
Portions of Camarillo, particularly hillside areas near the Santa Monica Mountains and Conejo Grade, are designated as Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (VHFHSZ) by CAL FIRE. Properties in these zones face stricter building standards, enhanced defensible space requirements, and mandatory fire-resistant construction materials under CMC Title 16 and the California Building Code.
View full Camarillo rules →Simi Valley, CA
Ventura County
Significant portions of Simi Valley are designated Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones by CAL FIRE. Properties in these zones face enhanced building standards, defensible space requirements, and vegetation management obligations.
View full Simi Valley rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Camarillo | Simi Valley |
|---|---|---|
| Fire Zone Designation | VHFHSZ in hillside areas | - |
| Roofing Requirement | Class A fire-rated | - |
| Defensible Space | Up to 200 feet in VHFHSZ | 100 feet mandatory |
| Building Code | CBC Chapter 7A applies | Chapter 7A fire-resistant materials |
| Fire Prevention | (805) 389-9710 | - |
| Designation | - | VHFHSZ (CAL FIRE) |
| Key Event | - | 2019 Easy Fire, 1,800+ acres |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Camarillo FAQ
Is my Camarillo property in a wildfire zone?
Check the CAL FIRE FHSZ map or contact the Ventura County Fire Protection District at (805) 389-9710. Hillside areas near the Santa Monica Mountains and Conejo Grade are most likely to be in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones.
What building materials are required in fire zones?
California Building Code Chapter 7A requires Class A roofing, fire-resistant siding, tempered or dual-pane windows, enclosed eaves, ember-resistant vents, and ignition-resistant decking. These requirements apply to new construction and major remodels in VHFHSZ areas.
Do fire zone requirements affect home renovations?
Major remodels and additions in VHFHSZ areas must comply with CBC Chapter 7A fire-resistant construction standards. Minor repairs using like-for-like materials may be exempt. Contact Community Development at (805) 388-5360 for specific project requirements.
Simi Valley FAQ
Is my Simi Valley home in a wildfire zone?
Many areas of Simi Valley are designated VHFHSZ by CAL FIRE, especially hillside neighborhoods. Check the CAL FIRE FHSZ map or contact Community Development at (805) 583-6800.
What building requirements apply in fire zones?
Properties in VHFHSZ must use fire-resistant roofing, ember-resistant vents, and ignition-resistant materials per California Building Code Chapter 7A. New homes require fire sprinklers.
Does wildfire zone designation affect my insurance?
Yes, properties in VHFHSZ may face higher premiums or difficulty obtaining coverage. California's FAIR Plan provides basic fire insurance for properties that cannot obtain coverage through standard markets.
Compare other topics
See how Camarillo and Simi Valley 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