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Fresno County, CA Fire Regulations: Brush Clearance (2026)

Heavy Restrictions

Verified 1 month ago|Source: CA PRC 4291 (Defensible Space) →

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Key Facts

Clearance: 100 ft defensible space
Zones: 0 / 1 / 2 (0-5, 5-30, 30-100 ft)
Authority: CAL FIRE / County Fire
Code: CA PRC §4291
Lien Authority: Yes (abatement cost)

City-specific rules exist: Clovis, Fresno, Sanger, Selma, and Reedley have their own brush clearance rules that differ from Fresno County's county-level regulations. If you live in one of those cities, check the city-specific page instead.

Summary

CA PRC §4291 requires 100 ft of defensible space around structures in State Responsibility Areas (SRA) and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones. Zone 0 (0-5 ft): ember-resistant; Zone 1 (5-30 ft): lean/clean/green; Zone 2 (30-100 ft): reduce.

Full Breakdown

Fresno County's eastern foothills are largely SRA managed by CAL FIRE, with extensive VHFHSZ designations. PRC §4291 mandates 100 ft defensible space (or to the property line). AB 3074 added Zone 0 (0-5 ft) requiring non-combustible materials immediately adjacent to structures. County Fire Protection District conducts inspections, especially May-October. Non-compliance triggers notice, re-inspection fees, and abatement with lien for cost recovery. Weed abatement in non-SRA areas falls under Fresno County Ordinance Code Chapter 12 (nuisance vegetation).

Violations & Fines

PRC §4291 violations: up to $500 first offense, $1,000 subsequent. Re-inspection fees $100-$500. County may abate and lien property for full cost plus administrative charges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does 100 ft clearance apply if my lot is smaller?

Clearance extends to the property line; you don't need to clear onto neighbor property. Coordinate with neighbors for shared boundaries.

What is Zone 0?

The 5 ft ember-resistant zone immediately around your structure: no wood mulch, no combustible fencing touching the home, no flammable plants.

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Fresno County, CA Fire Regulations: Brush Clearance (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

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