Defensible Space: Elfin Forest vs San Diego
How do defensible space rules compare between Elfin Forest, CA and San Diego, CA?
Elfin Forest, CA
San Diego County
No data available yet for Elfin Forest.
San Diego, CA
San Diego County
California Public Resources Code §4291 requires 100 feet of defensible space around structures in wildland fire areas. San Diego enforces this in Tierrasanta, Mira Mesa hillsides, Rancho Penasquitos, and other very-high fire hazard zones.
View full San Diego rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Elfin Forest | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| State law | - | PRC §4291 |
| Distance | - | 100 feet around structures |
| Zones | - | 0, 1, and 2 graded fuel |
| SD inspector | - | SDFD Brush Management |
| Hot zones | - | Tierrasanta, Mira Mesa hills |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Elfin Forest FAQ
No FAQs available.
San Diego FAQ
What is Zone 0 ember-resistant clearance?
Zone 0 is the five-foot non-combustible buffer immediately surrounding a structure. It must remain free of bark mulch, plants, fences, and stored items so wind-driven embers cannot ignite materials touching the building.
Who pays if the city abates the brush?
The property owner. SDFD or its contractor performs the work and bills costs to the parcel, becoming a tax lien if unpaid. Repeat non-compliance may also trigger misdemeanor citation.
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