Santa Clarita, CA Environmental Rules: Defensible Space (2026)
Key Facts
- State Law
- California PRC Sec. 4291
- Clearance Distance
- 100 feet from structures
- Zone 1
- 0-30 ft lean/clean/green
- Zone 2
- 30-100 ft reduced fuel
- Non-Compliance Fine
- $500 + $1,199 tax assessment
Summary
Santa Clarita parcels in LA County Fire Hazard Severity Zones must maintain 100 feet of defensible space under California PRC 4291; LA County Fire Department's Brush Clearance Unit inspects annually and assesses a $500 fine plus $1,199 tax-bill charge for non-compliance.
4291. (a) A person who owns, leases, controls, operates, or maintains a building or structure in the state responsibility area shall at all times do all of the following: (1) (A) Maintain defensible space of 100 feet from each side and from the front and rear of the structure, but not beyond the property line, except as provided in subparagraph (B). The amount of fuel modification necessary shall consider the flammability of the structure as affected by building material, building standards, location, and type of vegetation. Fuels shall be maintained and spaced in a condition so that a wildfire would be unlikely to ignite the structure.
Full Breakdown
Santa Clarita is served by the Los Angeles County Fire Department, which enforces California Public Resources Code Sec. 4291 and the LA County Fire Code defensible space standards. Property owners in mapped Fire Hazard Severity Zones must maintain 100 feet of defensible space, including a 30-foot Zone 1 lean/clean/green area and a 70-foot Zone 2 reduced-fuel area, with tree branches at least 6 feet above the ground. The Defensible Space Unit conducts annual inspections; brush clearance information meetings and Referee Hearings are held at Santa Clarita City Hall (23920 Valencia Blvd).
Violations & Fines
Failure to comply within 30 days of an Official Inspection Report triggers a $500 administrative fine plus an additional $1,199 direct assessment on the annual property tax bill; LA County Fire may also abate the hazard at the owner's expense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who inspects defensible space in Santa Clarita?
How much clearance is required?
What if I don't comply?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Santa Clarita
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