Brush Clearance: Oxnard vs Ventura
How do brush clearance rules compare between Oxnard, CA and Ventura, CA?
Oxnard has fewer restrictions than Ventura.
Oxnard, CA
Ventura County
Oxnard requires property owners to maintain defensible space by clearing brush, weeds, and combustible vegetation. The Oxnard Fire Department enforces clearance requirements under the California Fire Code and local amendments, particularly near hillside and wildland-urban interface areas.
View full Oxnard rules →Ventura, CA
Ventura County
Ventura requires 100-foot defensible space around all buildings in hazardous fire areas. Outbuildings and LPG tanks need 10 feet clearance to bare mineral soil plus 10 additional feet of non-flammable vegetation. All vacant parcels declared a nuisance must be entirely cleared of combustible material.
View full Ventura rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Oxnard | Ventura |
|---|---|---|
| Clearance Zone | 100 feet around structures | - |
| Vacant Lots | Must be free of combustible debris | - |
| Enforcement | Oxnard Fire Dept. (805) 385-7722 | Ventura City Fire (805) 339-4300 |
| Code | CA Fire Code + local amendments | - |
| Defensible Space | - | 100 feet from all building portions |
| Outbuildings/LPG | - | 10 ft bare soil + 10 ft no flammable vegetation |
| Vacant Parcels | - | Must be entirely cleared if declared nuisance |
| Penalty | - | SBMC 1.50 + CA H&S Code 13871 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Oxnard FAQ
Do I need to clear brush around my Oxnard property?
Yes. California Fire Code requires defensible space within 100 feet of structures. Oxnard Fire Department enforces this, especially near open space areas and the Santa Clara River corridor.
Does Oxnard enforce weed clearance on vacant lots?
Yes. Vacant lots with overgrown vegetation or combustible debris are subject to abatement orders. If owners fail to comply, the city will clear the lot and bill the owner plus fees.
When are brush clearance inspections conducted?
Oxnard Fire Department conducts seasonal inspections, typically in spring and summer. Property owners may receive notices requiring clearance within 30 days of inspection.
Ventura FAQ
How much brush clearance do I need around my home in Ventura?
Property owners must clear all combustible material within 100 feet of any building in a hazardous fire area. Outbuildings and propane tanks require 10 feet of bare soil plus 10 additional feet free of flammable vegetation.
What counts as combustible material?
Seasonal and recurrent weeds, stubble, brush, dry leaves, tumbleweeds, rubbish, litter, and any flammable materials of any kind.
What if I have a vacant lot in Ventura?
Vacant parcels declared a public nuisance must be cleared entirely of all combustible material. Failure to comply may result in the City performing the clearance and billing you for costs.
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