Ojai, CA Fire Regulations: Brush Clearance (2026)
Key Facts
- Zone 1
- 0-30 feet: lean/clean zone
- Zone 2
- 30-100 feet: reduced fuel zone
- Annual Deadline
- June 1
- Steep Slopes
- Up to 200 feet clearance
- VCFPD Inspections
- May-June annually
Summary
Ojai requires 100 feet of defensible space around all structures per VCFPD standards and CA PRC 4291. Properties in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (most of Ojai) must maintain Zone 1 (0-30 feet lean/clean) and Zone 2 (30-100 feet reduced fuel). Annual clearance by June 1.
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. Fuels shall be maintained and spaced in a condition so that a wildfire would be unlikely to ignite the structure.
Full Breakdown
California PRC 4291 and VCFPD regulations require defensible space of 100 feet around all buildings. Zone 1 (0-30 feet): remove all dead vegetation, trim tree limbs to 6 feet above ground, maintain minimal ground fuel. Zone 2 (30-100 feet): reduce vegetation density by 50%, remove dead material, create spacing between shrubs. Ojai was devastated by the 2017 Thomas Fire, resulting in enhanced enforcement. VCFPD conducts annual inspections starting in May. Properties with steep slopes may require additional clearance up to 200 feet. The city offers community chipping days for vegetation disposal.
Violations & Fines
First notice: 30-day compliance deadline. Failure to comply: VCFPD may clear the property and bill the owner ($500-$5,000+). Fines of $100-$500 per violation. Criminal charges possible if neglect contributes to fire spread.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much brush clearance do I need in Ojai?
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What happened during the Thomas Fire?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Ojai
California rules heatmap·Compare Ojai to another location·View the California fire regulations overview
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Brush Clearance in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Ventura County handle brush clearance.