Brush Clearance: El Cerrito vs Martinez
How do brush clearance rules compare between El Cerrito, CA and Martinez, CA?
El Cerrito and Martinez have similar restriction levels.
El Cerrito, CA
Contra Costa County
Properties in State Responsibility Areas and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones across unincorporated Contra Costa must maintain 100 feet of defensible space under Public Resources Code 4291. ConFire conducts annual inspections in the WUI, and non-compliance can trigger abatement, liens, and fines starting at $100 and escalating to misdemeanor charges.
View full El Cerrito rules →Martinez, CA
Contra Costa County
Properties in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in Martinez must maintain defensible space under CA Public Resources Code §4291. Zone 1 (0–30 ft from structures): remove all dead vegetation and maintain fire-resistant plants. Zone 2 (30–100 ft): reduce density of shrubs and trees. Annual inspections may be conducted by Contra Costa County Fire Protection District.
View full Martinez rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Cerrito | Martinez |
|---|---|---|
| Clearance distance | 100 feet (PRC 4291) | - |
| Zone 0 ember zone | 0 to 5 ft non-combustible (AB 3074) | - |
| Grass height in Zone 2 | Max 4 inches | - |
| Inspection | Annual by ConFire in WUI/VHFHSZ | Contra Costa County FPD annual inspections |
| Non-compliance | Abatement, lien, $100 to $500 penalties | - |
| Zone 1 (0–30 ft) | - | Lean/clean/green — remove dead vegetation |
| Zone 2 (30–100 ft) | - | Reduce fuel density — space shrubs and trees |
| State Law | - | CA Public Resources Code §4291 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
El Cerrito FAQ
Does PRC 4291 apply to renters?
Yes. The statute applies to any person who owns, leases, controls, operates, or maintains the property. Owner and tenant share responsibility, though the owner is ultimately liable for the lien.
Are oak trees protected when I clear defensible space?
Native oaks and other protected trees may require a tree-removal permit for whole-tree removal, but routine limbing to 6 feet and removing dead wood for fire safety is allowed without a permit.
Martinez 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?
Martinez fire department or CAL FIRE conducts annual inspections in fire hazard areas.
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