Legislation could go into effect by the end of this year, changing the way Californians landscape their homes.
In 2020, California enacted Assembly Bill 3074, mandating property owners to create an “ember-resistant zone” — referred to as “Zone 0” — within five feet of homes in designated high fire hazard areas. The legislation aims to reduce the risk of homes igniting from wind-driven embers during wildfires, a leading cause of structural fires.
However, many homeowners across the state — like Oakland Resident Tina Sanders — have not yet heard about the pending rules and have not begun making plans or saving money to be able to comply with it should the new safety rules go into effect soon
“I don’t know much about the Zone 0 law, but I think that the state should provide more information about it and help people prepare for this sudden change,” Sanders told CBM.
“I understand why it needs to happen, but people who aren’t aware or can’t afford to make these changes deserve assistance,” she added.
Other homeowners are worried that following Zone 0 rules could negatively impact the curb appeal of their homes, affecting their property values.
When Gov. Gavin Newsom issued Executive Order N-18-25 in February, he directed the State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection to expedite the adoption of Zone 0 regulations.
“We are living in a new reality of extremes. Believe the science – and your own damn eyes: Mother Nature is changing the way we live, and we must continue adapting to those changes,” Newsom continued, “California’s resilience means we will keep updating our standards in the most fire-prone areas.”
Despite the law’s passage in 2020, implementation has faced delays. Originally set to take effect in 2023, the regulations have not been finalized, leaving many homeowners uncertain about compliance requirements.
While compliance with the Zone 0 regulations is currently recommended but not mandatory, the fire department has already completed nearly 6,000 inspections, identifying over 1,900 violations of existing fire safety regulations.
In some cities like Berkeley, for example, the local government is already providing guidance to homeowners on how they can fireproof their homes.
“You are responsible for keeping your property safe,” Berkeley’s website reminds residents.
“The first 5 feet around your home is the most important area to clear of vegetation and combustible materials since it is closest to buildings, structures, and decks,” the messaging on the website goes on. “In the Ember-Resistant Zone, dead vegetation creates the highest risk for ignition, but even living vegetation can pose a threat in Ignition Zone 0, especially for properties in the hills.”
CAL FIRE has also provided prevention information on their website regarding “fire smart landscaping.”
When the California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection met in Sacramento from June 16 to 18, implementation of Zone Zero was high on different agendas for meeting attendees. However, the board has said it is still in the “pre-rulemaking phase.”
In addition to Zone 0 for homes, the State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection has defined Zone 1 and Zone 2, covering up to 100 feet around structures that would require “varying levels of vegetation management.”
The board says its goal is to have these regulations in place by the end of 2025.