California’s New 5-Foot Ember-Resistant Rule: What Homeowners Need to Know

California Governor Gavin Newsom has introduced an executive order requiring homeowners to create a 5-foot "ember-resistant" zone around their homes. This move follows intense scrutiny after devastating fires in Los Angeles, aiming to improve wildfire defense and reduce the risk of homes catching fire from wind-driven embers.

The order directs state officials to draft the rule within 45 days, hold public workshops, and finalize it by the end of the year.

Why the 5-Foot Zone is Important

Experts have warned that embers from wildfires can travel long distances and ignite homes. With climate change increasing the frequency and severity of wildfires, creating defensible space around homes has become a major focus for state authorities.

What Homeowners Need to Do

The goal is to ensure that the 5-foot zone around the house, also called “Zone 0,” is resistant to embers. This involves using materials like gravel, concrete, or pavers instead of flammable substances like mulch. Dead plants, weeds, leaves, and any other combustible debris should be cleared away. Homeowners should also move items like trash bins, vehicles, and boats outside of the zone.

What About Fences and Other Structures?

Fences, gates, and arbors within the 5-foot zone should be replaced with non-combustible materials. Vinyl fences, while resistant to embers, can still catch fire from direct flames, so they need to be replaced with fire-resistant alternatives.

Why Is This Rule Necessary?

Cal Fire has emphasized that the first 5 feet of defensible space are crucial for preventing embers from igniting homes. Research shows that these initial steps can significantly reduce the chance of wildfires spreading to structures.

The Legal Backing for the Rule

In 2020, California’s legislature passed Assembly Bill 3074, which included the 5-foot ember-resistant zone. However, it wasn’t fully developed into regulation until Newsom’s recent executive order. This order now requires the State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection to create the necessary regulations.

Is This Rule Statewide?

The rule applies to all structures within areas managed by Cal Fire, including regions outside cities. Additionally, homes in areas of “very high fire hazard severity” must also comply. Local jurisdictions are responsible for enforcing the rule within their own areas.

How Can I Tell if My Home Is in a High-Risk Area?

Governor Newsom’s order directs the state Fire Marshal to release updated fire-hazard maps, starting with Southern California on February 10. These maps will help homeowners determine if they live in a high-risk area.

Enforcement and Penalties

Cal Fire will oversee enforcement in its jurisdiction, while local agencies will manage enforcement within their own regions. The details about penalties for non-compliance are still unclear, but Assembly Bill 3074 mentioned possible fines.

This new rule is designed to help Californians prepare for the growing wildfire threat, ensuring homes are safer by creating fire-resistant zones around them.