Home / Is it allowed? / Plants against the house
How far from the house do plants have to be?
Would have to goUnder the August 2026 state draft. Not law yet, though some cities have their own rules.
Nothing can grow under the eaves, within 1 foot of the walls, within 2 feet of windows, doors, posts and vents, or within 5 feet of attached decks, stairs and pergolas.
- These are the plant-free strips. Allowed low plants can only go outside them.
What to do instead
Use gravel or pavers in these strips.
Timing: Existing homes: within 3 years, or up to 5 on a local fire agency's schedule.
Source
- Notice of proposed emergency action: Zone 0 defensible space, California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection, August 20, 2026