Key Facts Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources

San Bernardino County, CA Environmental Rules: Defensible Space (2026)

Heavy Restrictions

Verified 1 week ago|Source: California Public Resources Code →

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Key Facts

Clearance distance: 100 feet from structures
Inspection authority: SBCFPD fire marshal
State law: PRC section 4291
Lien: Costs added to taxes

These county ordinances apply to of San Bernardino County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

Summary

Properties in San Bernardino Mountain WUI zones must clear 100 feet of defensible space around structures. SBCFPD inspects annually before fire season; failure to comply triggers abatement orders, contractor cleanup at owner cost, and potential criminal citations.

Full Breakdown

California Public Resources Code section 4291 mandates 100-foot defensible space in State Responsibility Areas, which covers most of the San Bernardino Mountains, Cajon Pass slopes, and high-desert chaparral. Zone 1 (0 to 30 feet) requires lean, clean, green landscaping with no dead vegetation. Zone 2 (30 to 100 feet) allows reduced fuel loads and spacing between shrubs. SBCFPD conducts annual inspections in Crestline, Lake Arrowhead, Big Bear, Wrightwood, and other mountain communities. Defensible space is required for fire insurance under California FAIR Plan rules.

Violations & Fines

Inspection failure triggers a 30-day correction notice. Uncorrected parcels are abated by county contractors with costs assessed as a property tax lien plus administrative fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does defensible space apply to desert lots?

Yes for parcels inside State Responsibility Areas, but creosote and Joshua trees should not be removed; thinning rather than clearing is preferred to protect desert ecology and meet PRC 4291.

Who inspects mountain properties?

SBCFPD fire prevention officers conduct annual pre-season inspections, often coordinated with CAL FIRE in mountain communities and contract cities under the SBCFPD service area.

How does San Bernardino County compare?

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San Bernardino County, CA Environmental Rules: Defensible Space (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

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