Nearly all of Ojai is designated Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHSZ) by CAL FIRE. This triggers enhanced building standards, defensible space requirements, and restrictions on development. New construction must meet Chapter 7A fire-resistant building standards.
CAL FIRE maps designate most of the Ojai Valley as VHFHSZ. This requires: fire-resistant roofing (Class A), ember-resistant vents, non-combustible exterior walls or ignition-resistant materials, tempered glass or dual-pane windows, and enclosed eaves. All new construction and substantial remodels must comply with CBC Chapter 7A. Existing homes must maintain defensible space. The Thomas Fire (2017) was the largest fire in California history at the time, burning 281,893 acres and directly impacting Ojai. VCFPD conducts plan review for all new construction in VHFHSZ areas.
Building without fire-resistant materials in VHFHSZ: stop-work order, mandatory correction. Failure to maintain defensible space: fines and potential forced abatement.
Ojai, CA
Ojai enforces strict decibel limits to protect the peaceful valley environment. Residential noise standards are among the more restrictive in Ventura County.
Ojai, CA
Ojai's noise ordinance prohibits racing engines, unnecessary idling for more than 10 minutes, and intentional tire screeching. CA Vehicle Code §27007 (95 dBA...
Ojai, CA
Ojai regulates noise under OMC Chapter 7-6, incorporating Ventura County noise standards. Residential nighttime noise must not exceed 45 dBA at the property ...
Ojai, CA
Amplified music in Ojai is governed by the general noise ordinance (OMC Chapter 7-6). Outdoor amplified music requires a special event permit if audible beyo...
Ojai, CA
Nuisance barking violates Ojai's noise ordinance (OMC Title 5, Chapter 11). Police may charge property owners for law enforcement costs after the first respo...
Ojai, CA
CVC §22651 limits vehicles to 72 hours on public streets. Ojai enforces parking through the Ventura County Sheriff's Department. The small downtown area has ...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Ventura County.
See how other cities in Ventura County handle wildfire zones.
See how Ojai's wildfire zones rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.