Zone 0

What is Zone 0?

Zone 0 is the area within five feet of a building or structure and is the most critical defensible space for wildfire protection. In California, Zone 0 is being incorporated into defensible space requirements for homes in designated wildfire-prone areas to reduce likelihood of homes igniting during a wildfire.

Zone 0 (Noncombustible Zone)

Extends 0 to 5 feet from buildings, structures, decks, etc

Due to the nature of how most homes ignite through embers and small surface fires, this area is critical
Has greatest impact on reducing fire risk
Remove dry leaves, mulch, dead plants, and other fire hazards
Instead of plants, use hardscape like gravel, or concrete
Should be free of combustible materials
Store firewood, lumber, and combustible outdoor furniture outside of Zone 0 whenever possible
Regularly inspect and clean roofs, gutters, and the base of exterior walls to prevent ember accumulation

Zone 1 (Immediate Zone)

Extends from Zone 5 to 30 feet (or to property line if less than 30 feet)

Designed to lower wildfire risk by reducing combustible materials and maintaining vegetation to help slow the spread of fire
Remove any dry leaves, pine needles, and debris from yard, roof, or gutters
Trees should be pruned and spaced at least 10 feet apart to reduce wildfire spread
Keep lawns green and well-maintained during fire season, if water restrictions allow
Vegetation and combustible items should be cleared from under decks, balconies, and stairs
Trim tree branches at least 6 feet above the ground (or up to one-third of the tree height) to reduce ladder fuels

Zone 2 (Extended Zone)

Extends 30 to 100 feet around structure (or property line if less than 100 feet)

Designed to slow the spread of wildfire by reducing vegetation that could act as a fuel
Grass should be maintained at at maximum height of 4 inches
Shrubs and trees should be properly spaced using horizontal and vertical separation guidelines
Wood piles should have at 10 feet of clearance in all directions
Propane tanks should have 10 feet of clearance to bare mineral soil and no flammable vegetation nearby
Remove dead trees, fallen branches, and accumulated brush regularly
Break up continuous vegetation with driveways, walkways, rock features, or irrigated landscaping to reduce fire spread