Brush Clearance: Santa Paula vs Simi Valley
How do brush clearance rules compare between Santa Paula, CA and Simi Valley, CA?
Santa Paula and Simi Valley have similar restriction levels.
Santa Paula, CA
Ventura County
Santa Paula properties in or adjacent to wildland areas must maintain 100 feet of defensible space per VCFPD and California PRC §4291. The first 30 feet (Zone 1) requires lean, clean, and green landscaping. Zone 2 (30–100 feet) requires reduced fuel loads. Clearance must be completed by June 1 annually.
View full Santa Paula rules →Simi Valley, CA
Ventura County
Simi Valley requires property owners to maintain defensible space and clear brush within prescribed distances from structures. The Ventura County Fire Protection District enforces vegetation management standards critical to the city's wildfire-prone landscape.
View full Simi Valley rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Santa Paula | Simi Valley |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 | 0–30 feet — lean, clean, green | 0-30 feet, aggressive clearance |
| Zone 2 | 30–100 feet — reduced fuel | - |
| Deadline | June 1 annually | - |
| Grass Height | 4 inches max in Zone 1 | - |
| Fire Context | 2017 Thomas Fire — high WUI risk | - |
| Defensible Space | - | 100 feet from structures |
| Grass Height Limit | - | Under 4 inches in Zone 1 |
| Annual Inspections | - | Spring, compliance by June |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Santa Paula FAQ
How far must I clear brush around my Santa Paula home?
100 feet of defensible space is required. Zone 1 (0–30 feet) must be lean, clean, and green. Zone 2 (30–100 feet) requires reduced fuel loads. Steep slopes may require more.
When is the brush clearance deadline in Santa Paula?
All defensible space work must be completed by June 1 annually. VCFPD begins inspections on that date.
Who enforces brush clearance in Santa Paula?
Ventura County Fire Protection District (VCFPD) conducts inspections and enforcement. Contact them at (805) 389-9710.
Simi Valley FAQ
How much brush clearance is required in Simi Valley?
Property owners must maintain 100 feet of defensible space around structures. Zone 1 (0-30 feet) requires aggressive vegetation removal, and Zone 2 (30-100 feet) requires 50% fuel reduction.
When are brush clearance inspections in Simi Valley?
Ventura County Fire conducts annual inspections beginning in spring. Property owners typically must achieve compliance by early June before peak fire season.
What happens if I do not clear my brush?
After notice, the fire district may clear the vegetation and bill you for the work plus administrative fees. Fines and property liens may also be imposed for non-compliance.
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