Brush Clearance: Castro Valley vs Hayward
How do brush clearance rules compare between Castro Valley, CA and Hayward, CA?
Castro Valley and Hayward have similar restriction levels.
Castro Valley, CA
Alameda County
Public Resources Code 4291 requires 100 feet of defensible space around all structures in VHFHSZ and SRA areas of Alameda County, enforced by CAL FIRE and the Alameda County Fire Department.
View full Castro Valley rules →Hayward, CA
Alameda County
Properties in the Hayward hills Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone must maintain 100 feet of defensible space under California Public Resources Code 4291.
View full Hayward rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Castro Valley | Hayward |
|---|---|---|
| Legal basis | PRC 4291 | - |
| Defensible space | 100 feet | - |
| Zone 0 | 0-5 feet ember-resistant | Ember-resistant, no combustibles |
| Zone 1 | 5-30 feet lean clean green | - |
| Grass height | 4 inches max in Zone 2 | Under 4 inches |
| Requirement | - | 100 ft defensible space |
| Applies to | - | VHFHSZ parcels |
| Inspections | - | Annual, late spring |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Castro Valley FAQ
When do inspections occur?
The Alameda County Fire Department and CAL FIRE typically inspect from May through October, with peak focus in June and July before peak fire season.
What happens if I fail inspection?
You receive a notice to correct with a deadline; failure to correct results in fines and county abatement where contractors perform the work and bill the property owner.
Hayward FAQ
How do I know if I am in the VHFHSZ?
Check the CAL FIRE FHSZ Viewer or call Hayward Fire Prevention at (510) 583-4900.
What happens if I do not clear?
The city issues a notice; failure to comply results in forced abatement billed to the property owner via a lien.
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