San Luis Obispo County, CA Fire Regulations: Brush Clearance (2026)
Key Facts
- Authority
- PRC 4291, AB-38
- Defensible Space
- 100 feet required
- Zone 0
- 0-5 ft, no combustibles
- Sale Inspection
- Required pre-2020 homes
- First Violation
- Up to $500
Summary
Properties in SLO County State Responsibility Areas and High/Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones must maintain 100 feet of defensible space under California PRC 4291. Real-estate transfers of pre-2020 homes in these zones require a passing Defensible Space Inspection before sale (AB-38).
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
Most of unincorporated San Luis Obispo County lies within State Responsibility Area (SRA) for wildfire, and large portions are designated High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. California Public Resources Code Section 4291 requires 100 feet of defensible space (or to the property line) around every structure. Zone 0 (0-5 feet) must be free of all combustibles including wood mulch, plants, and stored items. Zone 1 (5-30 feet) requires lean, clean, and green landscaping. Zone 2 (30-100 feet) requires reduced fuels with mowed grass and trimmed trees. SLO County Fire conducts annual defensible space inspections, particularly in coastal canyons and inland chaparral areas. Under AB-38, sellers of pre-2020 homes in High/Very High FHSZ must provide documentation of a compliant Defensible Space Inspection at sale.
Violations & Fines
Failure to maintain defensible space is a misdemeanor under PRC 4291 with fines up to $500 for first violation and up to $1,500 for repeated violations. Property owners are liable for suppression costs if their non-compliance contributes to a wildfire.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much defensible space do I need in SLO County?
Do I need an inspection to sell my home?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Luis Obispo County
California rules heatmap·Compare San Luis Obispo County to another location·View the California fire regulations overview
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