California Brush Clearance Law: Statewide Fire Regulations Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: Public Resources Code 4291
Zone 0: 0-5 feet ember-resistant
Total clearance: 100 feet from structures
Inspector: CAL FIRE and local fire

Source: California Public Resources Code 4291

Full Breakdown

Public Resources Code Section 4291 mandates that any person owning, leasing, or controlling occupied dwellings or structures in State Responsibility Areas (SRA) or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in Local Responsibility Areas (LRA) maintain defensible space to 100 feet from each structure. Zone 0 (0-5 feet) must be ember-resistant under AB 3074. Zone 1 (5-30 feet) requires lean, clean, and green landscaping. Zone 2 (30-100 feet) requires reduced fuels. CAL FIRE inspects compliance. Local jurisdictions may impose stricter requirements but cannot reduce the 100-foot statewide minimum.

Violations & Penalties

Violations are misdemeanors punishable by fines from $100 to $500 for first offense; CAL FIRE may also bill abatement costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the 100-foot rule apply if I am in a city?

Yes, if your property sits in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone within a Local Responsibility Area. CAL FIRE maps designate these zones citywide.

Can a neighbor refuse access if my clearance extends onto their land?

You are only required to clear within property you own or control. Coordinate with neighbors; you cannot enter their property without permission.

California Statewide 100-Foot Defensible Space Requirement

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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