Los Angeles County, CA Fire Regulations: Brush Clearance (2026)
Key Facts
- Required defensible space
- 100 feet from all sides of structure
- Maximum required clearance
- Up to 200 feet in extra-hazardous areas
- Ember-resistant zone
- 5 feet around the structure
- 1st violation fine
- $0
- 2nd violation fine
- $500
- Firewood storage distance
- Minimum 30 feet from any structure
Summary
Property owners in unincorporated LA County must maintain 100 feet of defensible space around any structure located on or adjacent to brush- or forest-covered land. The fire department can require clearance up to 200 feet in extra-hazardous situations.
Any person owning, leasing, controlling, operating, or maintaining any building, structure, or apiary upon or adjoining any mountainous, or forest- or brush-covered land or land covered with flammable growth, and any person owning, leasing, or controlling any land adjacent to such structures, shall at all times maintain defensible space of 100 feet (30.48 m) from each side and from the front and rear of the structure in accordance with Sections 325.2.1.1 through 325.2.1.6. The intensity of fuels management may vary within the 100-foot perimeter of the structure, with more intense fuel reductions being used between 5 and 30 feet (1524 and 9144 mm) around the structure, and an ember-resistant zone being required within 5 feet (1524 mm) of the structure, based on regulations promulgated by the State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection, in consultation with the Office of the State Fire Marshal, to consider the elimination of materials in the ember-resistant zone that would likely be ignited by embers.
Full Breakdown
The 100-foot defensible space perimeter requires graduated fuel management: the first 5 feet around the structure must be an ember-resistant zone; from 5 to 30 feet, intensive fuel reduction applies; and the outer zone extends to 100 feet. Dead vegetation, leaves, pine needles, and overhanging branches must be removed continuously. Ornamental plants including acacia, cedar, cypress, eucalyptus, juniper, pine, and pampas grass are not exempt. Firewood and compost must be stored at least 30 feet from any structure.
Violations & Fines
First infraction: $0 administrative fine. Second violation: $500 administrative fine. Repeat noncompliance can result in the County performing the clearance at the owner's expense, with costs becoming a lien on the property. Failure to comply is also punishable as a misdemeanor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to remove ornamental plants like cypress or eucalyptus from around my house?
What happens if my neighbor's vegetation threatens my property?
Is the 100-foot rule always the maximum?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Los Angeles County
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