Approximately one-third of LA city land is mapped as Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. Properties in VHFHSZ face mandatory brush clearance, enhanced building standards (fire-resistant roofing, ignition-resistant materials), and restrictions on ADU construction in hillside areas. LAFD enforces compliance through annual inspections and abatement programs.
The City of Los Angeles has significant Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones throughout the Santa Monica Mountains, Hollywood Hills, Pacific Palisades, Bel Air, Brentwood, Griffith Park, and hillside communities. The catastrophic Palisades Fire in January 2025 burned over 23,000 acres and destroyed more than 12,000 structures in Pacific Palisades and surrounding areas, making it the most destructive fire in Los Angeles history. Previous major fires include the 2017 Skirball Fire in Bel Air and the 2019 Getty Fire. The city has responded with expanded brush clearance requirements up to 200 feet, stricter building codes in VHFHSZ, enhanced evacuation planning, and significant investment in fire prevention infrastructure.
VHFHSZ building violations: stop-work order. Brush clearance non-compliance: abatement plus fines up to $500/day. Habitual offenders face liens on property.
Los Angeles, CA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Los Angeles County.
See how other cities in Los Angeles County handle wildfire zones.
See how Los Angeles's wildfire zones rules stack up against other locations.
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