Brush Clearance: Martinez vs Walnut Creek
How do brush clearance rules compare between Martinez, CA and Walnut Creek, CA?
Martinez and Walnut Creek have similar restriction levels.
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 →Walnut Creek, CA
Contra Costa County
Properties in Walnut Creek's Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone and State Responsibility Area — including the city's eastern hills near Mount Diablo and along the Shell Ridge Open Space — must maintain 100 feet of defensible space under California Public Resources Code Section 4291, with specific Zone 0 (0–5 ft) ember-resistant clearance required under AB 3074.
View full Walnut Creek rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Martinez | Walnut Creek |
|---|---|---|
| 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.
Walnut Creek FAQ
Compare other topics
See how Martinez and Walnut Creek compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool