What is Zone 0?

Zone 0 is defined as the first 0-5 feet around your home, including the area where your fence may connect to your house. In a wildfire or urban firestorm this zone is at the highest risk for ember ignition spreading to the primary structure.

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New regulations in California are being finalized that will apply to all homes and existing structures in high  fire risk zones. All combustible material within 5 feet of the structure will have to be removed or replaced with ignition resistant materials. Homeowners will have 3 years to comply or retrofit and there will be no "grandfathering" provisions included once finalized by the state which is expected some time in 2026 with City of San Diego enforcement anticipated to begin February 2027.

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Why Homeowners (and Insurers) Care About Zone 0

A rapidly changing climate will bring drier winters and hotter summers to the region and the recent fire disasters in Los  Angeles in early 2025 have shown just how vulnerable Southern California neighborhoods will become to the dangers of wildfire in the coming years. The threat is no longer exclusive to the back country or mountain communities.

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When fire strikes, the property damage and financial fall out is significant.  A properly maintained Zone 0 is a critical component of structure defense and can significantly reduce a homes fire exposure. Fire resistant materials in Zone 0 can stop flames from spreading directly to homes, drastically slowing a fires progress in an urban setting.

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What should homeowners do now?

​Review the updated Fire Maps (there are two). One is a state map that applies to county and unincorporated areas. The other is a San Diego City map that applies to the city limits. If your property appears on EITHER map in a high severity area, Zone 0 will apply to your home.

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​Insurance providers are likely to consider Zone 0 compliance in future coverage decisions. So before making any investments or considering changes to you property, contact your  insurance carrier to see how Zone 0 implementation may affect your policy in the coming months.

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Ensure your neighbors and HOA boards are informed. These regulations will influence how you landscape, maintain, and insure your home regardless of preparedness.

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Use the following resources to keep track of Zone 0 and AB 3074 updates.

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