Los Angeles, CA Fire Regulations: Wildfire Zones (2026)
Key Facts
- Zone map
- Ord. 181,719 (eff. 6/26/11); available at Fire Marshal's Office
- Open burning
- Prohibited throughout VHFHSZ
- Open flames on roads/fire roads
- Prohibited
- Smoking
- Prohibited in VHFHSZ
- Vegetation clearance
- Required within 100 ft of structures; modification within 200 ft
- Red flag day clearance
- Brush/grass clearance prohibited on red flag days
Summary
Los Angeles has established a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHSZ) covering hillside and mountain areas, where open burning, smoking, and open flames are prohibited and strict vegetation clearance rules apply.
SEC. 57.4911.1.1. VERY HIGH FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONE ORDINANCE AND MAP.
The Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones are hereby established and declared to be those districts and areas included within the boundary described and set forth in the most current map (amended by Ord. 181,719 , Eff. 6/26/11) which is incorporated herein and made a part hereof for all purposes and shall be available at the Fire Marshal's Office.
SEC. 57.4911.2. POSTING OF SIGNS PROHIBITING SMOKING AND BURNING.
There shall be no open burning or smoking in the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. The Chief shall cause such districts to be posted at all times by suitable signs giving notice thereof.
SEC. 57.4911.6. SMOKING PROHIBITED.
It shall be unlawful for any person to light, ignite or smoke any cigar, cigarette, tobacco in a pipe or other form of smoldering substance within the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone.
Full Breakdown
LAMC § 57.4911.1.1 establishes the VHFHSZ based on the most current Fire Marshal map (last amended by Ord. 181,719, eff. 6/26/11). Within the zone, no open burning or smoking is allowed at any time (§ 57.4911.2). No open flame or self-contained flame-producing device may be on any road, street, or fire road in the zone (§ 57.4911.5). Smoking of any tobacco or smoldering substance is unlawful within the VHFHSZ (§ 57.4911.6). Vegetation clearance must be maintained within 100 feet of structures, with additional modification required up to 200 feet. Grass and brush clearance is prohibited on red flag days. Entry into restricted VHFHSZ areas away from public roads or open trails constitutes trespassing.
Violations & Fines
First clearance violation: infraction, fine not to exceed $250 (LAMC § 57.4906.5.1.1.10.1). Subsequent violations: misdemeanor, fine up to $1,000 and/or up to six months in County jail. If a fire results, violator may be liable for civil cost recovery for firefighting and emergency services.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my property is in the VHFHSZ?
Can I have a campfire or fire pit in the VHFHSZ?
What vegetation clearance is required around my home in the VHFHSZ?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Los Angeles
California rules heatmap·Compare Los Angeles to another location·View the California fire regulations overview
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Wildfire Zones in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Los Angeles County handle wildfire zones.