Properties in the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone must maintain defensible space per LAMC 57.4906.5.2. Vegetation must be cleared within 200 feet of structures and 10 feet of combustible fences or roadways. Grass and native brush must be cut to 3 inches. LAFD conducts annual inspections April through October with fines for non-compliance.
Under LAMC Section 57.322, property owners must clear native brush, weeds, grass, trees, and hazardous vegetation within 200 feet of any structure and within 10 feet of any combustible fence. Grass, flammable weeds, and hazardous vegetation must be cut to 3 inches or less in height. Dead wood and combustible material must be removed from all trees, shrubs, and ground cover. Properties in the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHSZ) are subject to LAFD inspection during May and June, with a $31 inspection fee under Section 57.4906.5.2. Clearance cannot be performed on red flag days, and only non-ferrous, non-sparking cutting blades may be used.
Non-compliant properties receive a Notice of Noncompliance with a $31 inspection fee. Failure to pay results in a 200% penalty assessment. LAFD may perform clearance and assess costs to the property tax bill.
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