Wildfire Zones: Hayward vs Sunol
How do wildfire zones rules compare between Hayward, CA and Sunol, CA?
Hayward and Sunol have similar restriction levels.
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 →Sunol, CA
Alameda County
Much of east Alameda County including the Oakland Hills, Castro Valley, and Sunol foothills is designated Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone by CAL FIRE, triggering strict defensible space rules.
View full Sunol rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Hayward | Sunol |
|---|---|---|
| Zone type | VHFHSZ (LRA) | - |
| Affected areas | East foothills | - |
| Building code | Chapter 7A | - |
| Disclosure | AB 38 required | CA Civil Code 1103 |
| Roofing | Class A mandatory | - |
| Zone designation | - | CAL FIRE VHFHSZ |
| Defensible space | - | PRC 4291, 100 feet |
| Building standard | - | CBC Chapter 7A |
| Historic fire | - | 1991 Oakland Hills Firestorm |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Sunol FAQ
How do I find out if my property is in a VHFHSZ?
Use the CAL FIRE Fire Hazard Severity Zone Viewer online or contact the Alameda County Fire Department to confirm your parcel status.
What are the insurance implications?
VHFHSZ properties face higher premiums, non-renewals, and may need the California FAIR Plan; completing home hardening can help qualify for the Safer From Wildfires program discounts.
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