Berkeley adopts its own Zone 0 rules
In June 2025, Berkeley adopted its EMBER rules, which ban plants within 5 feet of homes in two hillside areas. Fire department inspections started in May 2026.
The rules cover about 1,200 homes in the Grizzly Peak and Panoramic Hill areas, next to open space.
Gravel, rock or bare soil can replace plants. Plants in noncombustible pots are allowed with height limits. Wood fences need 5 feet of space or noncombustible material where they meet the house.
Other Berkeley homes in very high fire zones would follow the state's timeline.
What it means for you
- If you live in those Berkeley areas, your 5 feet can be inspected now.
Added to this site on October 10, 2026.
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Sources
- Final Berkeley vote on strict new wildfire plan expected tonight, The Berkeley Scanner, June 17, 2025 (not an official source)
- EMBER implementation plan (City Council item, June 17, 2025), City of Berkeley, June 17, 2025
More updates
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Still no statewide Zone 0 rule
As of October 10, 2026, the state's list of emergency rules under review has nothing from the Board of Forestry. The statewide rule is not law. Some cities, like San Diego and Berkeley, have their own.
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State pulls Zone 0 rules back before a ruling
The Board of Forestry withdrew its Zone 0 rules from final state review on September 8, 2026, before the Office of Administrative Law ruled on them. The rules never took effect.
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Board of Forestry adopts Zone 0 rules
On August 19, 2026, the Board of Forestry adopted emergency rules for the 5 feet around homes in fire zones. They still needed state approval to take effect.