Does Zone 0 apply in San Diego?
The state Zone 0 rule is not law yet. Each point below says where it comes from.
Yes. The City of San Diego has its own Zone 0 rule for new structures in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, in effect since February 28, 2026. Existing homes in those zones have city guidelines, with enforcement planned from February 28, 2027.
Where this comes from
- Local ruleCity of San Diego Fire-Rescue: Zone 0 applies to structures and additions in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone when the building permit application is made on or after February 28, 2026.
- Local ruleCity of San Diego Fire-Rescue: For existing structures, the city says enforcement begins February 28, 2027. The city says owners should try to reach full compliance by February 28, 2029, and that the timeline can change at the Fire Code Official's discretion.
- Advice onlyCity of San Diego Fire-Rescue: The existing-structure guidelines say owners are not required to act now and that they do not require home hardening retrofits. The city's February 12, 2026 release says it will start with education and help.
- Local ruleCity of San Diego Fire-Rescue: Zone 0 is the area within 5 feet of a building, including outbuildings, attached decks and stairs. Combustible materials are prohibited there unless the guidelines specifically allow them. Combustible mulch is prohibited, and plant pots cannot exceed 5 gallons.
- State ruleThe state Zone 0 rule is not law yet. The Board of Forestry page says the Board and staff are still working with the Office of Administrative Law on a final review. The city's rule is separate from it.
Who to ask
San Diego Fire-Rescue Department, Community Risk Reduction
What to do
Check if your address is in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone using the map link on the city's defensible space page.
If you are building or adding on in a Very High zone, ask Fire-Rescue how Zone 0 applies to your permit. The city says permit applicants must show compliance during plan review.
If you own an existing home in a Very High zone, read the city's Zone 0 guidelines for existing structures. Start with dead plants, leaves, mulch, firewood and stored items within 5 feet.
You can request a Home Risk Assessment from the city. The city's page lists the fee as $163.
For questions on inspection applications and records, call the Community Risk Reduction Division at (619) 533-4388.
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Sources
- Guide to Defensible Space: Property Owners, City of San Diego Fire-Rescue
- Zone 0 Guidelines for Existing Structures, City of San Diego (April 2026)
- Zone 0 for New Structures (D-2), City of San Diego (April 2026)
- State-Mandated Zone Zero Requirements Set to Go into Effect, City of San Diego news release, February 12, 2026
- Defensible Space Zones 0, 1 and 2, California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection
Checked October 12, 2026. Local rules change. Confirm with the agency above.