New Fire Hazard Zones & What It Means for Homeowners

Earlier this year, California released updated Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZ), which may affect your fire insurance rates depending on your property location. These revised designations help insurers accurately assess risk—and homeowners should take note.

Check your home’s updated zone here to understand your potential exposure. ArcGIS Experience

What You Can Do About It: Defensible Space Basics

Creating defensible space around your home is critical—and could help demonstrate to insurers that your property is well-prepared.

Zone 0 (0–5 feet from your home):

• Use non-combustible surfaces like gravel or concrete.
• Keep dead leaves, debris, and combustible materials (e.g., firewood, planters) clear.
• Maintain a safe clearance (≥10 feet) from chimneys, vents, and wooden structures.
  Ready for Wildfire

Zone 1 (5–30 feet):

• Remove dead vegetation, trim overhanging branches, and keep this area lean, clean, and green.
• Clear under decks, balconies, and stairs.
  Ready for Wildfire

Zone 2 (30–100 feet):

• Keep grasses trimmed low (under 4 inches), space shrubs and trees to reduce fuel, and clean up fallen debris.
• Move flammable items like wood piles away from structures.
  Ready for Wildfire

Fire-Smart Landscaping: Beauty + Safety Combined

Strategic plant selection and maintenance can create a lush, fire-resistant landscape. Key practices include:

• Choosing plants that retain moisture and resist ignition.
• Keeping vegetation well-watered and free of dead material.
• Using non-combustible mulch (e.g., rock) and incorporating proper spacing to reduce ember risk.
  Ready for Wildfire

What This Means for You

1. Check your FHSZ designation to see the new fire risk level for your home.
2. Update or create defensible space to protect your property and potentially lower insurance costs.
3. Implement fire-smart landscaping to strengthen your home’s resilience and beauty.

Want Help Evaluating Your Home?

I offer consultations to help you review your property’s fire safety status and understand how it could impact your insurance and resale value.
Schedule a complimentary consultation here: Book Now

Let’s ensure your home is safe, compliant, and positioned for long-term peace of mind.