Wildfire Zones: Fremont vs Hayward
How do wildfire zones rules compare between Fremont, CA and Hayward, CA?
Fremont and Hayward have similar restriction levels.
Fremont, CA
Alameda County
Fremont east foothills including Mission Peak, Weibel, Vargas Plateau, and Niles Canyon are mapped as Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones by CAL FIRE, triggering stricter building and clearance rules.
View full Fremont rules →Hayward, CA
Alameda County
Hayward's eastern foothills are mapped as a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone by CAL FIRE, triggering defensible space and building code requirements.
View full Hayward rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fremont | Hayward |
|---|---|---|
| VHFHSZ Coverage | About 30 percent of city | - |
| Key Areas | Mission Peak, Weibel, Vargas, Niles | - |
| Build Code | CBC Chapter 7A | - |
| Defensible Space | 100 ft required | - |
| Real Estate | NHD plus AB 38 disclosure | - |
| Zone type | - | VHFHSZ (LRA) |
| Affected areas | - | East foothills |
| Building code | - | Chapter 7A |
| Disclosure | - | AB 38 required |
| Roofing | - | Class A mandatory |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fremont FAQ
How do I check if my Fremont home is in a VHFHSZ?
Use the CAL FIRE Fire Hazard Severity Zone viewer at osfm.fire.ca.gov or contact Fremont Fire Prevention at 510-494-4200 with your address for a written determination.
Does VHFHSZ affect my insurance?
Yes. Many carriers non-renew VHFHSZ policies. The California FAIR Plan is the insurer of last resort. Completing home hardening and defensible space can qualify you for the Safer from Wildfires insurance discount.
Hayward FAQ
Is all of Hayward in the VHFHSZ?
No. Only the eastern hillside neighborhoods. Flatland Hayward west of the hills is not in the VHFHSZ.
Does AB 38 apply to my sale?
Yes if the home is in the VHFHSZ; sellers must disclose and may need to demonstrate defensible space compliance.
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