Brush Clearance: Downey vs Lancaster
How do brush clearance rules compare between Downey, CA and Lancaster, CA?
Downey and Lancaster have similar restriction levels.
Downey, CA
Los Angeles County
Downey requires property owners to maintain vegetation to prevent fire hazards. Dead, decayed, or hazardous vegetation is classified as a public nuisance under the municipal code. State law (PRC 4291) requires 100 ft defensible space in fire hazard zones.
View full Downey rules →Lancaster, CA
Los Angeles County
California PRC §4291 requires 100-foot defensible space in fire hazard zones. Lancaster may impose additional clearance requirements.
View full Lancaster rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Downey | Lancaster |
|---|---|---|
| Local Code | Nuisance abatement for hazardous vegetation | - |
| State Law | PRC 4291 - 100 ft defensible space | CA PRC §4291 |
| Zone 1 | 0-30 ft lean/clean/green | 0 to 30 ft: lean, clean, green |
| Enforcement | Code Enforcement | - |
| Zone 2 | - | 30 to 100 ft: reduced fuel |
| Inspections | - | Annual |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Downey FAQ
Do I need to clear brush on my Downey property?
Yes. Property owners must maintain vegetation and prevent fire hazards. The Fire Code requires 10-foot clearance along roadways.
Who enforces vegetation clearance in Downey?
The Code Enforcement Division at (562) 904-2392 handles property maintenance violations including overgrown vegetation.
Lancaster 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?
Lancaster fire department or CAL FIRE conducts annual inspections in fire hazard areas.
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