Defensible Space

Creating Defensible Space:
Your First Line of Defense Against Wildfire

When it comes to protecting your home from wildfire, creating and maintaining defensible space is one of the most effective actions you can take. Defensible space is the buffer you create between your home and the surrounding vegetation — trees, shrubs, grass, and other wildland areas. This buffer slows or stops the spread of fire and may provide a safe zone for firefighters to defend your home if needed.

Why Defensible Space Is Critical

Wildfires may spread quickly by wind-born embers and dry vegetation, and wind. Without proper clearance, flames can move straight from vegetation to your home.

A well-maintained defensible space can:

  • Reduce the intensity of a wildfire as it approaches your property

  • Minimize the chances of embers igniting your home

  • Improve firefighter access and safety

  • Increase your home’s chances of survival — even if emergency services cannot reach you in time

The Three Defensible Space Zones

To maximize protection, defensible space is divided into three zones.

Zone 0 / Immediate Zone

The Ember-Resistant Zone
(0–5 feet from the home)

This is the most critical area. Even a few flammable items can ignite your home.

    • Remove all dead plants, leaves, and debris from roofs, gutters, decks, and stairs

    • Replace mulch with non-combustible materials like gravel or stone

    • Avoid storing firewood or combustible materials near the home

    • Use hardscaping like concrete, pavers, or bare soil next to structures

    • Ensure vents are covered with 1/8-inch metal mesh or install fire-rated vents to block embers

Zone 1 / Intermediate Zone

The Lean, Clean & Green Zone
(5–30 feet)

This zone slows the fire and keeps flames low.

    • Trim branches at least 10 feet from your home and other trees

    • Remove dead vegetation and weeds regularly

    • Space trees and shrubs to prevent fire from jumping between them

    • Keep lawns mowed to 4 inches or shorter

    • Use fire-resistant plants and landscaping materials

Zone 2 / Extended Zone

The Reduced Fuel Zone
(30–100 feet or to property line)

This area reduces the fire’s ability to climb and spread.

    • Thin trees to create at least 10 feet of space between canopies

    • Remove ladder fuels — vegetation that allows fire to climb from ground to tree tops

    • Create clear separation between plant groupings

    • Keep this zone maintained throughout fire season

Understanding the Law:
California’s Defensible Space Requirements

The following applies to those who live in the State Responsibility Area (SRA) or the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in the Local Responsibility Area (LRA):

In response to the increased frequency and intensity of wildfires in California over the last decade, the California State Legislature passed AB 3074 (2020) and SB 504 (2024), making changes to Public Resource Code 4291.

These changes require the California State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection (Board) to establish an ember-resistant defensible zone (Zone 0) — the first 5 feet around a structure.

Governor Newsom’s Executive Order N-18-25 requires that the Board complete rulemaking for Zone 0 no later than December 31, 2025.

As of this writing:

  • The new Zone 0 regulation is scheduled to go into effect for new construction on January 1, 2026.

  • For existing structures, it will apply starting January 1, 2029.

Maintain Year-Round Vigilance

Defensible space is not a one-time task — it’s an ongoing effort. Fire season is getting longer, and weather patterns are becoming more extreme. Regularly inspect your property and maintain your defensible space throughout the year, especially before summer and fall.

Prepare Now, Protect Tomorrow

Creating defensible space is a proven way to give your home a fighting chance during a wildfire. When combined with home hardening and evacuation planning, it forms a strong foundation for wildfire resilience. Protect your family, your home, and your community — start building your defensible space today.

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Fire Adapted Big Sur is a program of the Community Association of Big Sur