Three laws passed between 2020 and 2025 created Zone Zero, a mandatory ember-resistant zone within 5 feet of every structure in a High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. Here's what each law does, what it requires, and when it takes effect.
FAQ
Zone Zero applies to all structures in a High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (HFHSZ) or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHSZ) in California. Use the zone checker on our homepage to confirm your property's status using the CAL FIRE database.
Final regulations are expected from the Board of Forestry in late 2026. The April 2026 draft is the most current published version. Phase 1 deadlines are estimated 3 years after adoption, roughly 2027–2028 depending on the final adoption date.
Defensible space covers 0–100 feet around your home and focuses primarily on vegetation management. Zone Zero is specifically the 0–5 foot zone immediately adjacent to structures, and it adds requirements for non-combustible materials, not just vegetation clearance.
AB 1455 established a penalty framework, but the April 2026 draft confirmed an education-first enforcement approach for the initial period. Early enforcement will focus on outreach and warnings rather than immediate citations.
It depends on the work. Vegetation clearing (Phase 1) can often be DIY or done by a C-27 landscaper. Structural work like replacing fences, decks, or roofing typically requires a licensed contractor (C-13 for fencing, C-39 for roofing, B-General for decks).
Your Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) is typically your county or city building department. AHJs set Phase 2 deadlines, may adopt stricter local requirements, and handle inspections and permits. Phase 2 timelines can vary significantly from county to county.
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Compliance Timeline
Zone Zero compliance rolls out in two phases. Your deadline depends on when the Board of Forestry finalizes regulations and what your local AHJ sets for Phase 2.
Est. 2027–2028, 3 years after adoption
Set by local AHJ, up to 5 years after adoption
Key Requirements
Most Zone Zero rules have grace periods, but not all. These apply the moment final regulations are adopted, regardless of phase.
Effective immediately upon adoption. No new wood, vinyl, or other combustible fences may be installed within Zone Zero. This applies even before Phase 2 retrofit deadlines arrive.
ImmediateAny new structure built in an HFHSZ after adoption must meet full Zone Zero requirements from day one. No Phase 1 or Phase 2 timeline applies to new builds.
Phase 1The April 2026 Board of Forestry draft confirmed an education-first approach for the initial compliance period. Inspectors will prioritize outreach over citations during the early rollout.
EnforcementEstablished the enforcement timeline and penalty framework for Zone Zero compliance. Confirmed Phase 1 deadlines approximately 3 years after final regulation adoption and Phase 2 deadlines set by local AHJs up to 5 years. Introduced an education-first enforcement approach for the initial compliance period.
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