Zone 0 refers to the 0–5 feet surrounding any structure (apartments, homes, garages, sheds). The proposed regulations would mandate the removal of all combustible materials in this zone — including all plants, combustible mulch like bark or wood chips, wood fences, furniture, and decorations.

Use the link below to see the latest draft rules and the details about this new legislation.

Widespread removal of vegetation from 17% of all of California’s structures (per CNRA) would have a profound and negative environmental impact. Homeowners would be forced to remove long-standing landscaping — even well-maintained, irrigated plants. Iconic places like UCLA’s Sculpture Garden, Chinatown, and Hollywood Blvd would be stripped of greenery, with little benefit.  These mandates surpass existing clearance requirements, which most homeowners already satisfy.

Research shows that home hardening and strategic vegetation management are critical for wildfire safety. However, one-size-fits-all clearance mandates ignore local conditions and create unintended harm.  The recent fires in Southern California reveal that well-maintained green plants can slow fire spread and block embers and that complete removal could accelerate fire by channeling the embers toward the home—contrary to insurance studies.

• All homeowners in current and future VHFSHZs MUST COMPLY.
• Most who comply with current brush clearance requirements would not comply with the new mandates.
• Compliance is expensive.
• Removal of vegetation will eliminate privacy in densely developed areas.
• Loss of tree canopy will increase temperatures and associated cooling costs.
• Massive vegetation removal could heighten fire risk.
• One size fits all approach to rural and urban settings overlooks important ecological and safety factors.
• The regulations will greatly reduce wildlife habitat, especially in higher density neighborhoods.
• Property owners can get fined and a lien put on the house with no process to appeal.