Zone Zero
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[This page and information are being provided by Just Fences as a way to help you understand and navigate this topic. Just Fences does not claim to be an expert in interpreting the legislation and laws. This is only a tool to help you assess its impact on your home and to prompt more investigation by using your local authorities.]
Defensible Space: Zones O, 1 and 2
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Clear zones. Safer homes. Defensible space saves lives.
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The CA Legistature has passed Assembly Bill 3074 [AB307 in 2020] and State Bill 504 [SB504 in 2024]. These bills require the Board of Forestry and Fire Protection [CAL FIRE} to establish an ember-resistant defensible zone the first 5 feet around a structure, referred to as Zone Zero. In addition, Zone 1 (5-30 ft) and Zone 2 (30-100 ft) have also been identifed.
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If you live in the State Responsibility Area (SRA) or the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in the Local Responsibility Area (LRA), you are responsible for ensuring that your property complies with defensible space requirements that call for owners to take proactive steps to protect structures from wildfire.
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Dept of Forestry & Fire Protection | CAL FIRE
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Just Fences recommends that you review this information and others available online to better understand how this impacts your home and where you live. Contacting your local fire department can be a sure way to have an assessment done of your home, ensure that you take the necessary steps to be compliant and assist with filing for local grants.
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While these bills are specific to designated areas, Just Fences recommends that you consider these precautions irrespective of where you live to protect your home and loved ones. While we don't have any definitive proof, it's our opinion that following these guidelines will do nothing but enhance your protection and alleviate any possible issues that may arise with home insurance. We offer materials that comply with these regulations (SaferWood Thermex-FR) [link this line to Fire Retardant tab] and will gladly assist you with understanding how we can install them at your home and bring you peace of mind.
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According to recent publications, the Dept of Forestry & Fire Protection is currently conducting public information sessions before making a ruling.
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The excerpt below is from the LA Times [April 18, 2026] and is intended only to provide perspective on the implementation timeline.
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"Once the state adopts a final version of the rules, homeowners would have three years to get their landscaping in order and up to five years for the bigger tasks, including removal of all vegatation from the Safety Zone and updating combustible fencing and sheds within five feet of the home. New construction would have to comply immediately.
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The rules only apply to areas with notable fire hazards, including urban areas that Cal Fire has determined have "very high" fire hazard and rural wildlands."
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The excerpt below is from Inside San Diego Zone Zero [Feb 12, 2026] and is intended only to provide perspective on the implementation timeline.
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"Existing home and property owners in Very High Fire Severity Zones must take proactive steps to meet Zone Zero guidelines by February 2027, in order to be in compliance with the state’s requirements."
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The links below are provided as a resource only - explore as you and your needs dictate
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Fire Safe Marin Zone Zero April 2026 Draft
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CAL Fire Defensible Space & Zone Zero [with video]
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County of Marin Defensible Space
Marin Wildfire Prevention Authority - Grants
County of Marin Fire Hazard Severity Zone Maps - Local Responsibility Area (LRA)
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Marin Specific Map
