Santa Clarita Backyard Fire Regulations Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

Given Santa Clarita's location at the wildland-urban interface in northern LA County, backyard fire safety is a critical concern. California Public Resources Code Section 4291 requires property owners in fire hazard zones to maintain 100 feet of defensible space around all structures. This applies to many properties in Santa Clarita, particularly those in communities near Sand Canyon, Placerita Canyon, and areas bordering the Angeles National Forest.

The defensible space requirement is divided into zones. Zone 0 (0-5 feet from structure) must be completely free of combustible materials including dry vegetation, mulch, and stored items. Zone 1 (5-30 feet) requires removal of most vegetation and debris with limited, well-maintained landscaping. Zone 2 (30-100 feet) requires reduction of vegetation to prevent fire spread, with grass cut to a maximum of 4 inches and horizontal spacing between shrubs and trees. Trees should be trimmed from the ground to at least one-third of their total height.

The LA County Fire Department's Defensible Space Program conducts annual inspections of improved parcels in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones. Property owners who fail to comply receive a Notice of Violation with a specific deadline. If work is not completed by the deadline, the County will perform the clearance and charge the owner. New construction, remodeling of 50% or greater, and certain accessory structures over 120 square feet within fire hazard zones require an approved Fuel Modification Plan before building permits are issued.