Zone Zero Gutters, Eaves & Roof Requirements

Phase 1 of California's Zone Zero regulations requires clearing all combustible debris from gutters, eaves, and roof surfaces. Ember accumulation in these areas is one of the leading causes of structure ignition during wildfires.

Clear gutters and roof surfaces

All leaf litter, pine needles, dead branches, and combustible debris must be removed from gutters, valleys, and flat roof areas. This includes debris accumulated on top of gutters and in any roof penetrations.

Eave and soffit clearance required

Combustible material stored or hanging under eaves must be removed. Open eaves (unenclosed soffits) present a significant ember entry risk and should be enclosed or covered with ember-resistant material.

Phase 1 deadline est. 2027–2028

Gutter and roof clearing is a Phase 1 requirement, due within 3 years of final rule adoption. With adoption expected late 2026, the deadline is estimated 2027–2028. Ongoing maintenance is required, not a one-time task.

[background image] image of suburban neighborhood

What Zone Zero requires for gutters and eaves

Gutters and eaves are primary ember collection points. The April 2026 Board of Forestry draft requires all combustible material to be cleared from these areas and recommends ongoing maintenance as a compliance obligation.

Embers from wildfires can travel miles ahead of the fire front and accumulate in gutters, roof valleys, and eave areas. A small accumulation of dry debris in a gutter can ignite from a single ember and burn through the soffit into the attic, causing total structure loss even when the fire front never reached the home.

Ember-resistant gutter guards with openings no larger than 1/8 inch can significantly reduce debris accumulation and are strongly recommended. While not explicitly required under the April 2026 draft, they may be required by local AHJs and are the most cost-effective long-term compliance strategy.

Open eaves present a direct ember entry pathway into the attic and wall cavities. Enclosing open eaves with ignition-resistant materials like fiber cement, metal, or fire-rated wood eliminates one of the most common ignition pathways. This may be addressed under Phase 2 requirements depending on your local AHJ.

Gutters, Eaves, and Roof: Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Zone Zero gutter and roof compliance, answered clearly.

How often do I need to clean my gutters under Zone Zero?

The April 2026 draft frames gutter clearing as an ongoing compliance obligation, not a one-time event. In fire-prone areas, industry best practice is to clean gutters at minimum twice per year: once in late spring after pollen season and once in late fall after leaf drop. During high-wind events, inspect immediately after.

Do gutter guards satisfy the Zone Zero requirement?

Ember-resistant gutter guards with openings no larger than 1/8 inch can significantly reduce debris accumulation and are strongly recommended. They are not explicitly listed as a requirement in the April 2026 draft, but local AHJs may require them. They remain the most cost-effective long-term solution.

What about a metal roof? Am I still required to clear debris?

Yes. Even with a non-combustible metal roof, debris accumulation in valleys, around skylights, and at roof-wall junctions creates ignition risk. Zone Zero requires clearing regardless of roofing material. The roof surface itself may comply, but accumulated debris does not.

Are open eaves (exposed rafter tails) a violation?

Open eaves are a significant ember entry risk. The April 2026 draft addresses the under-eave safety zone in Phase 2 requirements. Some local AHJs may require enclosure of open eaves as a Phase 2 compliance action. Enclosing open eaves with ignition-resistant materials is strongly recommended regardless of specific requirements.

Can I do gutter cleaning myself or do I need a contractor?

Gutter cleaning can be done by homeowners. For two-story or steep-roof homes, a licensed gutter cleaning service is recommended for safety. For gutter guard installation or eave enclosure, a licensed contractor is required. A Zone Zero contractor can assess your entire roof perimeter and identify all compliance gaps.

When is the Phase 1 deadline for gutter and roof compliance?

Phase 1 is required within 3 years of final rule adoption. With adoption expected late 2026, the Phase 1 deadline is estimated 2027–2028. New construction must comply immediately upon adoption. Because gutter clearing is an ongoing obligation, starting now simply means maintaining good practice going forward.

Get a professional gutter and roof Zone Zero assessment

Get a free assessment
Phase 1: Gutters, Eaves, and Roof

Get a free gutter and roof compliance assessment

Phase 1 deadlines are approaching. A licensed local contractor can inspect your gutters, eaves, and roof perimeter, identify all Zone Zero compliance gaps, and recommend the most cost-effective solutions.

Get my free assessment