Thousand Oaks Backyard Fire Regulations Rules (2026): What You Need to Know
Heavy RestrictionsKey Facts
- Open Burning (Disposal)
- Prohibited
- Zone Zero
- 5 ft non-combustible buffer around structures
- Defensible Space
- 100 ft required from structures
- Fire Hazard Zone
- High/Very High for much of city
- Sale Inspection
- Required (AB 38)
- Ordinance Update
- December 2025
The Short Version
Open burning for vegetation disposal is prohibited in Thousand Oaks. The city adopted new fire ordinances in December 2025 requiring a Zone Zero 5-foot non-combustible buffer around structures. Property owners must maintain 100 feet of defensible space in Wildland-Urban Interface areas. VCFD standards are more restrictive than state law.
Full Breakdown
Open burning of vegetation for disposal is prohibited in Thousand Oaks under Ventura County Fire Department standards. In December 2025, the Thousand Oaks City Council adopted new fire ordinances aligning with the 2025 California Fire Code. Zone Zero requires a 5-foot non-combustible buffer around structures in High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones — no plants, mulch, or combustible materials within 5 feet. Beyond that, Zone 1 (5-30 feet) requires lean, clean, green landscaping, and Zone 2 (30-100 feet) requires reduced vegetation. Properties in fire hazard zones require a fire department inspection for defensible space compliance at time of sale under AB 38.
What Happens If You Violate This?
Violations of defensible space requirements are enforced by VCFD and can result in citations, fines, and abatement at the property owner's expense. Non-compliance at time of sale can delay real estate transactions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I burn yard waste in my backyard?
What is Zone Zero?
Sources & Official References
Related Ordinances in Thousand Oaks
How does Thousand Oaks compare?
See how Thousand Oaks's backyard fire regulations rules stack up against other locations.