Brush Clearance: Irvine vs Santa Ana
How do brush clearance rules compare between Irvine, CA and Santa Ana, CA?
Irvine and Santa Ana have similar restriction levels.
Irvine, CA
Orange County
Irvine enforces vegetation management under IMC Title 4, Division 4 (Fire) and the California Fire Code. Properties in Fire Hazard Severity Zones must maintain 100 feet of defensible space per California PRC Section 4291.
View full Irvine rules →Santa Ana, CA
Orange County
Santa Ana enforces vegetation management under SAMC Chapter 14 (Fire Prevention, Protection, and Emergency Services) and the California Fire Code adopted by reference. Property owners must maintain defensible space and clear combustible vegetation to reduce fire hazards.
View full Santa Ana rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Irvine | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Defensible Space | 100 ft in FHSZ areas | - |
| Zone 1 | 0-30 ft: remove dead vegetation | - |
| Zone 2 | 30-100 ft: reduce density | - |
| FHSZ Map Updated | 2025 (expanded areas) | - |
| Enforcement | OCFA | Abatement + lien if non-compliant |
| Vegetation Clearance | - | Required on all properties |
| Fire Authority | - | Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) |
| Vacant Lots | - | Must be kept clear of weeds/brush |
| Code Section | - | SAMC Chapter 14 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Irvine FAQ
Is my Irvine property in a fire hazard zone?
Irvine updated its FHSZ maps in 2025. Check the city's Fire Hazard Severity Zone Map to see if your property is in a Moderate, High, or Very High zone.
How much brush clearance is required?
Properties in FHSZ areas must maintain 100 feet of defensible space, with stricter requirements in the first 30 feet from structures.
Santa Ana FAQ
Do I need to clear brush on my property in Santa Ana?
Yes. Property owners must maintain their lots free of combustible vegetation and fire hazards under SAMC Chapter 14 and the California Fire Code.
Who enforces fire prevention in Santa Ana?
The Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) provides fire prevention and inspection services for Santa Ana.
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