Brush Clearance: Hayward vs Oakland
How do brush clearance rules compare between Hayward, CA and Oakland, CA?
Hayward and Oakland have similar restriction levels.
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 →Oakland, CA
Alameda County
Properties in Oakland's Wildfire Prevention Assessment District and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone must maintain 100 feet of defensible space under California Public Resources Code §4291, including a 0–5 foot ember-resistant zone, 5–30 foot lean/clean/green zone, and 30–100 foot reduced-fuel zone. Oakland Fire Department conducts annual inspections of Hills parcels and issues correction notices with abatement deadlines.
View full Oakland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Hayward | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Requirement | 100 ft defensible space | - |
| Applies to | VHFHSZ parcels | - |
| Zone 0 | Ember-resistant, no combustibles | - |
| Grass height | Under 4 inches | - |
| Inspections | Annual, late spring | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Oakland FAQ
Do I need to clear 100 feet if my lot is smaller than that?
You only need to clear to your property line. You are not required (or allowed) to clear vegetation on neighboring parcels. If a neighbor's vegetation threatens your structure, coordinate with them or contact OFD's Vegetation Management Unit.
Can I keep a wood fence attached to my house in the Hills?
Zone 0 rules under AB 3074 are phasing out combustible materials within 5 feet of structures. Wood fences directly attached to homes are discouraged and may be cited. Replacing the section within 5 feet of the house with non-combustible material is recommended.
What if I don't clear by the deadline?
Oakland will perform forced abatement through a contractor and bill the owner, typically at rates higher than private clearance. Administrative fines and a lien against the property can also be imposed.
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