Protecting your home in a Very High Fire Severity Zone (VHFHSZ) starts with the first five feet.  As of February 2026, the City of San Diego has implemented "Zone Zero" (0-5 feet) regulations, requiring all new structures in VHFHSZ’s to keep the immediate 5-foot perimeter free of combustible materials, such as plants, mulch, and wood items. Zone 0 extends 5 feet horizontally from the exterior walls, decks, or attachments of a structure.

 

This state-mandated rule applies to new building permits now, with existing structures required to comply by February 2027.  Zone Zero is the first of three defensible space zones. While the 5-foot perimeter is the most critical for preventing ignition, remember when applicable to maintain your 30-foot (Zone 1) and 100-foot (Zone 2) buffers as well.

Reference resources - select here

The city encourages residents to use non-combustible materials like gravel or concrete in this zone to prevent wind-driven embers from igniting homes during wildfires. Property owners are required to keep roofs and rain gutters clear of leaves and needles. No ignition-prone materials are allowed, including ornamental plants, weeds, bark/woodchips, firewood, and combustible furniture.

Reference resources -select here  for more information from the City of San Diego.

 

Although there is a lot of information out there on Zone Zero and below are a few items used by local municipalities and fire departments to aid in homeowner education. This page serves as an informative directory for property owners to navigate these new requirements, access documentation and find fire-safe landscaping alternatives.

 

Check if your property falls within the "Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone". 

• San Diego: Select here

• Cal Fire: Select here