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How far do tree branches need to be from my house?
Can stay, with limitsUnder the August 2026 state draft. Not law yet, though some cities have their own rules.
Trees can stay, but no dead branches, no branches under the eaves, and live branches at least 10 feet from chimneys and stovepipes.
- Where there is no eave, keep live branches at least 1 foot from the wall.
- Keep live branches at least 5 feet above the roof.
- Remove ladder fuels: the lower 6 feet or lower third of the tree, whichever is less.
- The dead branch, chimney and under-eave rules are already in state law.
Timing: Existing homes: dead branches, chimney clearance and under-eave limbs right away, because state law already requires them. Wall and roof clearance and ladder fuels within 3 years.
Source
- Notice of proposed emergency action: Zone 0 defensible space, California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection, August 20, 2026