San Diego requires 100 feet of defensible space around all structures in Very High Fire Severity Zones under SDMC 142.0412. Three fuel modification zones apply. Properties must be cleared by June 1 annually. New AB 3074 Zone 0 requirements (0-5 ft ember-resistant zone) effective 2027.
SDMC Section 142.0412 and the California Fire Code require property owners in Very High Fire Severity Zones (VHFSZ) to maintain 100 feet of defensible space around all habitable structures. The requirement is divided into three fuel modification zones: Zone 1 (0-35 ft) requires removal of all dead vegetation, maintenance of lean, clean, and green landscape; Zone 2 (35-65 ft) requires thinning of vegetation to reduce fire spread; Zone 3 (65-100 ft) requires removal of dead material and maintenance of spacing between plants. California AB 3074 adds Zone 0 (0-5 ft) requiring an ember-resistant zone around structures; new construction must comply as of February 12, 2026, existing homes by February 12, 2027. Annual inspections of vacant parcels conducted by Fire Prevention Services Inc. (FPSI). Vegetation must be cut to approximately 2 inches on flat parcels. Brush clearance must be completed by June 1 each year.
Notice of Violation issued after inspection. If not cleared within the compliance period, city abates the property and places a lien for costs. Administrative abatement fees under SDMC 54.0206.
San Diego, CA
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San Diego, CA
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San Diego, CA
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San Diego, CA
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San Diego, CA
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San Diego, CA
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