Wildfire Zones: Simi Valley vs Ventura
How do wildfire zones rules compare between Simi Valley, CA and Ventura, CA?
Simi Valley and Ventura have similar restriction levels.
Simi Valley, CA
Ventura County
Significant portions of Simi Valley are designated Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones by CAL FIRE. Properties in these zones face enhanced building standards, defensible space requirements, and vegetation management obligations.
View full Simi Valley rules →Ventura, CA
Ventura County
Significant portions of the City of Ventura — particularly the hillsides north and east of downtown — are mapped as High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (VHFHSZ) by CAL FIRE under Government Code §51178 and Public Resources Code §4202. Parcels in these zones must comply with PRC §4291 100-ft defensible space, California Building Code Chapter 7A wildfire-resistant construction (CBC §701A et seq.) for new construction and substantial remodels, and the City's Fire Hazard Reduction Program. The City publishes an interactive Wildfire Hazard Zone map (cityofventura.maps.arcgis.com). The 2017 Thomas Fire — California's then-largest recorded wildfire — burned just east of city limits, underscoring the WUI risk along Ventura's foothills.
View full Ventura rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Simi Valley | Ventura |
|---|---|---|
| Designation | VHFHSZ (CAL FIRE) | - |
| Key Event | 2019 Easy Fire, 1,800+ acres | - |
| Building Code | Chapter 7A fire-resistant materials | - |
| Defensible Space | 100 feet mandatory | - |
| Authority | - | CAL FIRE under Gov. Code §51178 (LRA) / PRC §4202 (SRA) |
| Zone classes in Ventura | - | Moderate, High, Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones |
| Defensible space requirement | - | 100 ft (PRC §4291) |
| New construction standard | - | CBC Chapter 7A / CRC R337 (ignition-resistant) |
| Disclosure law | - | Civ. Code §1103.2; AB 38 retrofit disclosure (pre-2010 homes) |
| Map | - | cityofventura.maps.arcgis.com Wildfire Hazard Zone Lookup |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Simi Valley FAQ
Is my Simi Valley home in a wildfire zone?
Many areas of Simi Valley are designated VHFHSZ by CAL FIRE, especially hillside neighborhoods. Check the CAL FIRE FHSZ map or contact Community Development at (805) 583-6800.
What building requirements apply in fire zones?
Properties in VHFHSZ must use fire-resistant roofing, ember-resistant vents, and ignition-resistant materials per California Building Code Chapter 7A. New homes require fire sprinklers.
Does wildfire zone designation affect my insurance?
Yes, properties in VHFHSZ may face higher premiums or difficulty obtaining coverage. California's FAIR Plan provides basic fire insurance for properties that cannot obtain coverage through standard markets.
Ventura FAQ
How do I check if my property is in a Fire Hazard Severity Zone?
Use the City's interactive hazard zone lookup map at cityofventura.maps.arcgis.com (linked from the City's Fire Hazard Reduction Program page). Enter your address to see your zone class.
Do I have to retrofit my older home?
AB 38 does not require retrofit. It requires DISCLOSURE at sale of homes built before 2010 in High/VHFHSZ regarding the status of seven hardening features (roof, vents, eaves, decking, windows, exterior siding, rain gutters).
Does Chapter 7A apply to a remodel?
Yes, when the remodel is a 'substantial remodel' or any addition under CRC R337 / CBC Chapter 7A — exterior components added or replaced in a designated FHSZ must meet ignition-resistant standards. Confirm with the Ventura Building & Safety Division.
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