New State Rules Ban Plants, Mulch and Wood Fences Within Five Feet of Your House
CLIMATE & ENVIRONMENT
California’s Board of Forestry and Fire Protection recently approved "Zone Zero" rules to limit wildfire ignition from wind-blown embers.
The proposed new restrictions on combustible materials near homes -- including mulch, wood chips, firewood, wooden fencing, and some landscaping -- are expected to go to the state Office of Administrative Law in early next month and could take effect by the end of September.
The rules would apply to properties in designated "High Fire Hazard Severity Zones and State Responsibility Areas." Existing homes will have up to five years to comply, while new builds must follow them immediately.
Banned items include wood mulch, wood chips, stacked firewood, and wooden fences that attach directly to the home. These would be prohibited within five feet of the residential structure.
The proposal also bans ALL plants within an immediate one-foot buffer. Beyond that first foot (up to 5 feet), established trees can remain if trimmed, and specific low-growing, well-irrigated, fire-resistant plants (like succulents) or non-combustible potted plants are allowed.
Organic mulch must be replaced with hardscaping like gravel, stone, or concrete.
East County Advocate | August 27, 2026
EDITOR'S NOTE: I found more information about Zone 0 on a website called Fire Safe Marin.
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