Much of unincorporated San Diego County is designated as a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHSZ) by CAL FIRE. Properties in these zones must meet enhanced building standards, defensible space requirements, and fire-resistant landscaping per the County's Consolidated Fire Code.
CAL FIRE maps designate fire hazard severity zones throughout unincorporated San Diego County. Properties in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones must comply with California Building Code Chapter 7A (Materials and Construction Methods for Exterior Wildfire Exposure), the County's Consolidated Fire Code, and enhanced defensible space requirements. New construction and major remodels must use fire-resistant roofing, exterior walls, windows, and decking materials. Vegetation management plans may be required. Fire access roads must meet minimum width and grade requirements. The County Fire Authority reviews all building permits in fire hazard zones.
Building without required fire-resistant materials or failing to meet wildfire zone requirements may result in permit denial, stop-work orders, and required retrofitting at the owner's expense.
San Diego County, CA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in San Diego County.
See how other cities in San Diego County handle wildfire zones.
See how Elfin Forest's wildfire zones rules stack up against other locations.
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