Brush Clearance: Martinez vs Richmond
How do brush clearance rules compare between Martinez, CA and Richmond, CA?
Richmond has fewer restrictions than Martinez.
Martinez, CA
Contra Costa County
Properties in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in Martinez must maintain defensible space under CA Public Resources Code §4291. Zone 1 (0–30 ft from structures): remove all dead vegetation and maintain fire-resistant plants. Zone 2 (30–100 ft): reduce density of shrubs and trees. Annual inspections may be conducted by Contra Costa County Fire Protection District.
View full Martinez rules →Richmond, CA
Contra Costa County
California Public Resources Code 4291 requires 100 feet of defensible space around structures in State Responsibility Areas and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones. Portions of Richmond's hillside neighborhoods (El Sobrante hills, Hilltop, Point Richmond ridges) fall within CAL FIRE-mapped VHFHSZ areas and must comply; flatland areas are exempt.
View full Richmond rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Martinez | Richmond |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 (0–30 ft) | Lean/clean/green — remove dead vegetation | - |
| Zone 2 (30–100 ft) | Reduce fuel density — space shrubs and trees | - |
| State Law | CA Public Resources Code §4291 | - |
| Inspection | Contra Costa County FPD annual inspections | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Martinez FAQ
How much clearance do I need?
100 feet of defensible space if in a fire hazard zone. Two zones with different requirements.
Who inspects?
Martinez fire department or CAL FIRE conducts annual inspections in fire hazard areas.
Richmond FAQ
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