Question 1

Is Zone 0 in effect yet?

Accepted Answer

No. The Zone 0 regulations are not yet in effect. The rulemaking has been submitted to the California Office of Administrative Law for review.Once the regulations take effect, requirements for existing homes will be phased in over several years.

Question 2

Can I keep existing trees and plants in Zone 0?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Existing trees may remain in Zone 0 if they are properly maintained. Dead wood and ladder fuels would need to be removed, with required clearance from roofs, eaves and chimneys. New trees would not be allowed within Zone 0 once the regulations take effect.Some well-maintained, low-growing vegetation would also be allowed in portions of Zone 0, including certain non-woody plants, groundcovers, maintained lawn and small plants in noncombustible pots.The areas immediately next to the structure and around vulnerable features would have stricter vegetation-clearance requirements.

Question 3

What does the first five feet include?

Accepted Answer

Zone 0 extends five feet from the structure and includes areas next to exterior walls, under eaves, and around windows, doors, vents, decks, fences and gates.Under the August 2026 draft, the area immediately next to the structure would have the strictest requirements. Additional low-combustibility standards would apply through the rest of the five-foot zone.

Question 4

Can I keep mulch, firewood and other combustible materials in Zone 0?

Accepted Answer

The August 2026 draft would restrict combustible materials throughout Zone 0.Firewood, wood mulch, dead vegetation and other easily ignitable materials would need to be removed or relocated from the first five feet. Noncombustible materials such as gravel or stone are better choices closest to the home.

Question 5

What about fences, gates, decks and sheds in Zone 0?

Accepted Answer

The August 2026 draft would limit combustible fences, gates and accessory structures within Zone 0.Where a fence attaches to a home, the draft calls for a noncombustible section next to the structure. New combustible fences and gates would not be allowed within Zone 0, and sheds or similar structures within the five-foot area would need noncombustible exterior materials.Attached decks also receive special treatment because embers and flames can collect beneath and around them. Some requirements for existing homes would have a longer phase-in period.

Question 6

When would existing homes need to comply?

Accepted Answer

The August 2026 draft would phase in Zone 0 requirements for existing homes over several years.Some requirements, including removal of combustible materials, dead vegetation and certain vegetation-management changes, would generally have about three years.Other changes, including the under-eave safety zone and some fencing, gate and shed requirements, could have up to five years.

Question 7

What can I do now to prepare for Zone 0?

Accepted Answer

Homeowners can take practical steps now that also reduce wildfire risk.Remove dead vegetation and debris next to the home, move firewood and other combustible materials away from structures, keep roofs and gutters clean, and review combustible mulch, fencing, gates and items stored beneath decks or eaves.For larger or permanent changes, such as replacing fencing, removing established trees or modifying structures, check the final requirements and local guidance before proceeding.

Del Mar Fire Safe Council

ZONE 0

The First Five Feet Around Your Home

CURRENT STATUS

OFFICIAL SOURCES

What is Zone 0?

Zone 0 FAQ