Marin County, CA Fire Regulations: Brush Clearance (2026)
Key Facts
- Defensible Space
- 100 feet from structures
- Zone 1
- 0–30 ft lean & green
- Zone 2
- 30–100 ft reduced fuel
- Driveway Clearance
- 10 ft horiz, 15 ft vert
- Max Fine
- Up to $500
Summary
Marin County requires 100 feet of defensible space around all structures in Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) areas. State law (PRC §4291) and the Marin County Fire Code mandate two zones: Zone 1 (0–30 ft, lean and green) and Zone 2 (30–100 ft, reduced fuel).
1965, Ch. 1144. ) 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.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
Defensible space is required by state law (Public Resources Code §4291) and adopted into Marin County Code Title 16 (Fire Code). The standard 100-foot defensible space requirement applies to all WUI properties in unincorporated Marin and within the cities, with two zones. Zone 1 (0–30 feet) requires removal of dead vegetation, regular pruning, and removal of brush piles. Zone 2 (30–100 feet) requires reduced and spaced fuels. Additional vegetation clearance is required within 10 feet horizontally of driveways and 15 feet vertically. The Marin Wildfire Prevention Authority (MWPA) conducts annual inspections May through October.
Violations & Fines
Failure to maintain defensible space after inspection is an infraction enforced by Marin County Fire and partner agencies. Fines reach up to $500 per violation under MWPA authority. Repeat violations may trigger abatement billed to the owner.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much defensible space is required in Marin County?
When does Marin inspect for defensible space?
What is the fine for failing a Marin defensible space inspection?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Marin County
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