Newport Beach requires property owners to maintain defensible space around structures by clearing dry vegetation per California Fire Code and NBMC Title 9. Annual inspections focus on hillside properties in areas like Newport Coast and San Joaquin Hills.
Under the California Fire Code as adopted in NBMC Title 9 and California PRC 4291, Newport Beach property owners must maintain defensible space around structures. Zone 1 requires removing dead vegetation and maintaining lean, clean, and green landscaping within 30 feet of structures. Zone 2 (30–100 feet) requires reducing fuel loads by thinning vegetation. While Newport Beach is largely a coastal urban city, hillside properties in Newport Coast, San Joaquin Hills, and areas adjacent to Crystal Cove State Park face higher wildfire risk and are subject to annual inspections by Newport Beach Fire. The fire department conducts inspections typically in late spring before fire season. Property owners receive notices if vegetation management is needed. Clearance must be completed by the deadline stated in the notice, typically June 1. Irrigation of ornamental landscaping and use of fire-resistant plants is encouraged.
Failure to comply with brush clearance requirements after notice results in administrative citations. The city may hire contractors to clear vegetation at the property owner's expense. Fines start at approximately $200 and escalate for repeat non-compliance.
Newport Beach, CA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Orange County.
See how other cities in Orange County handle brush clearance.
See how Newport Beach's brush clearance rules stack up against other locations.
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