Defensible Space Zones in California, Explained

Updated 2026-11-07 · CA Fire Map editors

Defensible space is the buffer between your home and the vegetation around it. It slows a fire, protects your home from embers and gives firefighters room to work. California Public Resources Code 4291 requires up to 100 feet of defensible space around buildings in State Responsibility Areas, and many local rules require the same.

Zone 0: the ember-resistant zone (0-5 feet)

The area right next to your home, including under decks. Embers cause most home ignitions, so this zone should have nothing that can burn: no bark mulch, no dead leaves in gutters, and no wood piles or flammable furniture against the walls. California's Board of Forestry is phasing in formal Zone 0 rules; check Ready for Wildfire for the current status.

Zone 1: lean, clean and green (5-30 feet)

• Remove dead plants, grass and weeds.
• Keep tree branches at least 10 feet from your chimney and other trees.
• Trim branches that hang over your roof.
• Move wood piles to Zone 2.

Zone 2: reduce fuel (30-100 feet)

• Cut grass to a maximum of about 4 inches.
• Create horizontal space between shrubs and trees, and vertical space between low plants and tree branches.
• Remove fallen leaves, needles and twigs, but you may leave a thin layer if it's not near the house.

Hardening the home itself

Defensible space works best together with home hardening: ember-resistant vents, Class A roofing, enclosed eaves, dual-pane windows and non-combustible gutters and fencing near the house. The Wildfire Prepared Home program sets a standard some insurers recognize.

Check your fire hazard zone

The State Fire Marshal's Fire Hazard Severity Zone maps show whether your property is in a moderate, high or very high zone, which affects building and defensible-space requirements.

Get help

Many local Fire Safe Councils offer chipping programs and grants. If you'd rather hire it out, request quotes from fire-safe contractors.