Federal and California Regulations on
Defensible space FOR ALL PROPERTY TYPES

California Fire Safety Regulations

Protecting your home from wildfire isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s one of the best ways to keep your family safe and your property secure. Creating defensible space is the first step, and when done right, it helps you pass inspections and gives you peace of mind.


The rules can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry—we’re here to make it simple.


What Is Defensible Space?


Defensible space is the buffer between your home and the grass, trees, shrubs, or wildland area that surround it. This space slows the spread of wildfire and gives firefighters a safer area to defend your home.


California law requires every property owner in a wildfire-prone area to maintain defensible space. Here’s what you need to know...


California State Laws


Public Resources Code (PRC) Sections 4290 & 4291


These laws require property owners to create and maintain defensible space around structures—up to 100 feet. That means clearing flammable vegetation, spacing trees properly, and managing fuel sources.


When You Sell Your Property


California Assembly Bill 38


If your home is in a High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, sellers must provide proof of defensible space compliance during escrow.


If the documentation isn’t available before closing, the buyer must agree (in writing) to bring the property into compliance within one year of purchase.


Ongoing Maintenance Rules


California Code of Regulations (14 CCR Section 1299)


Defensible space isn’t a “one and done” task—it must be maintained year-round whenever flammable conditions exist.


State Board of Forestry Guidelines


  • Remove vegetation according to state-recommended spacing rules.
  • Keep woodpiles at least 10 feet from any structure, with bare mineral soil underneath.


Inspections and Enforcement


Cal Fire or local fire officials can inspect your property to ensure compliance—inside of homes is exempt, but all outdoor spaces are subject to review.


have questions about your property?


We’re here to help you understand the rules and create a defensible space that protects what matters most.


✅ Call us today or send us a message—we’ll walk you through every step.


By Lori Templeton July 29, 2025
I Just Got a CAL FIRE Notice—What Now? A CAL FIRE Prevention Officer just paid you a visit. Maybe they left a notice on your door, or maybe you had a quick conversation in the driveway. Finding out your property didn’t pass its defensible space inspection can feel like a lot to take in. Take a breath. You’re not alone—and you’re not in trouble. CAL FIRE isn’t out to fine you or penalize you. Their mission is to help reduce wildfire risk across California’s communities, and part of that includes annual inspections to make sure properties meet minimum fire safety standards. Think of this notice as an opportunity to get your property dialed in before the peak of fire season—not as a warning letter. At Grind Fire Defense , we work alongside CAL FIRE and homeowners like you to make the path to compliance as smooth, safe, and straightforward as possible. Why Did I Get a Notice? CAL FIRE issues LE-100 notices when a property is out of compliance with California’s Public Resources Code 4291 . This state law lays out the basics of defensible space, requiring all structures in wildfire-prone zones to maintain clear, safe zones that reduce the risk of ignition and slow the spread of fire. This includes: Clearing dead or dry grass, leaves, and debris Creating spacing between trees and shrubs Trimming tree limbs away from roofs and chimneys Keeping the first 5 feet around structures free of flammable materials If your property didn’t meet one or more of these standards, you may have been given a notice requesting corrective action by a certain date.
A wooden house is sitting on top of a piece of paper that says insurance.
By Lori Templeton July 15, 2025
The number of non-renewals in high fire-risk areas has more than doubled in the last decade. Here's what you can do if your insurance is cancelled...
3 men clearing brush and trees with chain saws
By Grind Fire Defense April 22, 2025
Grind Fire Defense can clear brush away from your home to give your home defensible space and harden your home against the threat of wildfire.
A house in the woods with good defensible space
By Grind Fire Defense January 2, 2022
A video on Defensible space

LeARN THE DEFENSIBLE SPACE ZONES

Grind Fire Defense provides defensible space services. There are 4 areas or zones to consider when creating a defensible space.

beautiful house with good defensible space

Zone 0

Ember Resistant

The immediate surroundings of your buildings and structures range from about 5' out.

nice frontyard

Zone 1

Lean, Clean & Green

Extends 30 feet from buildings, structures, decks, etc., or to your property line, whichever is closer.

good defensible space

Zone 2

Reduce Fuel

Zone 2 extends 30 to 100 feet from your buildings, structures, decks, etc., or your property line.

men cutting trees

Zone 3

Egress and Extend

Zone 3 is an access zone adjacent to roads and driveways, called ingress and egress.

We have collected resources for anyone interested in learning more about wildfires and their impact on homes and property. You can find information on wildfires, including where they have occurred recently and what caused them to start. You'll also find tips on how to protect your home from wildfire damage.


California Wildfire Preparedness Resources


California Wildfire Disaster Resources