As wildfire risks continue to rise in California, state officials are introducing new defensible space laws aimed at better protecting homes from fire. One of the most significant changes on the horizon is the introduction of Zone 0 regulations, which will soon be required in areas identified as the highest fire hazard severity zones. At Trident Inspection Group in Westminster, CA, we want to help homeowners understand what these changes mean and how to prepare.
Zone 0 is the five-foot area immediately surrounding your home or any attached structures, such as decks or garages. This area is the most vulnerable to ignition from wind-driven embers during a wildfire. The goal of Zone 0 is to create an ember-resistant buffer zone that helps prevent fires from reaching your structure.
Wildfires often spread by embers carried through the air, which can land close to a home and ignite flammable materials. Many homes are lost because of what’s sitting right next to the house—things like dry mulch, dead plants, or firewood. By keeping Zone 0 clear of combustibles, homeowners significantly reduce the risk of fire igniting near the home.
The California State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection is currently developing the official rules. Once finalized, they will require property owners to remove or modify combustible items near their homes. This may include replacing flammable mulch with non-combustible ground cover, relocating wood piles or propane tanks, and removing dead vegetation or flammable outdoor furniture. These steps will help ensure the five-foot perimeter around each structure is far less likely to ignite.
The Zone 0 regulations are expected to be finalized by the end of 2025. For new construction, the requirements will likely be effective immediately upon adoption. For existing homes, a grace period—possibly up to three years—will likely be implemented to allow homeowners time to bring their properties into compliance with the new standards.
Although the regulations aren’t yet in effect, it’s a good idea to start evaluating your home’s exterior now. If you live in a high-risk area, take a walk around your property and look closely at what sits within five feet of your home. Even small changes, such as switching out mulch or trimming back shrubs, can make a significant difference. A home inspection from Trident Inspection Group can also help identify potential risks and offer expert recommendations for improvements.
Questions about fire safety or how your home stacks up under Zone 0 guidelines? Contact Trident Inspection Group today at (714) 332-6689. As a top-rated inspection company in California, we’re here to help you protect your property and prepare for upcoming regulations.
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