Mission Viejo requires 100 feet of defensible space around structures in fire hazard areas, enforced by OCFA. Annual brush clearance inspections occur in spring, and non-compliance results in abatement at the property owner's expense.
The Orange County Fire Authority enforces California Public Resources Code Section 4291 and local fire code requirements for defensible space in Mission Viejo. Properties in or adjacent to wildland areas must maintain 100 feet of defensible space from structures. Zone 1 (0-30 feet from structures) requires removal of all dead vegetation, maintenance of trees limbed up 6 feet from ground, and separation of tree canopies by 10 feet. Zone 2 (30-100 feet) requires reduction of vegetation height to 18 inches and removal of dead material. Mission Viejo has significant wildland-urban interface areas along its hillsides and canyon edges, particularly in neighborhoods adjacent to O'Neill Regional Park and Oso Creek corridor. OCFA conducts annual brush clearance inspections typically beginning in April. Property owners receive notices identifying required clearance. Failure to comply by the deadline results in OCFA abatement crews performing the work and billing the property owner. HOAs with common area slopes must maintain their own vegetation management programs. OCFA Vegetation Management at (714) 573-6000.
Failure to maintain defensible space violates PRC 4291 and local fire code. OCFA issues correction notices with a compliance deadline. Non-compliance results in abatement at owner expense (typically $500-$2,000+) plus administrative fees. Criminal liability applies if non-compliance contributes to fire spread.
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