Fire History
Santa Clara County's fire risk is concentrated in its western hills, Santa Cruz Mountains, and Diablo Range foothills. The 2020 SCU Lightning Complex burned extensively through the Diablo Range east of the Bay. The CZU Lightning Complex simultaneously threatened communities in the Santa Cruz Mountains on the county's western edge. The Almaden Valley, Los Altos Hills, Saratoga, and Monte Sereno hillside communities have faced recurring fire risk from wind-driven events in the surrounding ranges.
Local Compliance Notes
Santa Clara County Fire Department and CAL FIRE SCU Unit share jurisdiction depending on location. Silicon Valley hillside communities including Los Altos Hills, Saratoga, Los Gatos hills, Monte Sereno, and Almaden Valley foothills face the most significant Zone Zero obligations. Given high property values and dense landscaping in these communities, Zone Zero compliance planning should begin early.
Neighborhoods in Zone Zero
High-FHSZ communities in Santa Clara County include Los Altos Hills, Saratoga hills, Los Gatos hills, Monte Sereno, Almaden Valley foothills, Evergreen foothills, Morgan Hill foothills, Gilroy foothills, and unincorporated communities in the Santa Cruz Mountains and Diablo Range.
Local FAQs
Do hillside communities in Silicon Valley like Los Altos Hills and Saratoga need to comply? Yes — these communities are in FHSZ areas and Zone Zero requirements apply. High-value landscaping within Zone Zero will need to be assessed for compliance. Contact Santa Clara County Fire or your city fire department for jurisdiction-specific guidance.