California passes toughest wildfire rules in the U.S. for home landscaping
California has implemented strict new landscaping regulations for homes in wildfire-prone areas, known as 'Zone Zero.' The rules limit vegetation and tree proximity to structures to reduce fire ignition risks, affecting nearly 2 million existing homes.
Why it matters
As climate change increases the frequency and severity of wildfires, these regulations represent a significant shift in urban planning and property management to protect communities.
As severe wildfires burn across the Western U.S., California has adopted the toughest rules in the country to help protect communities from burning. Homeowners in wildfire-prone areas will be required to limit plants within five feet of their house, a protective measure that wildfire experts say can help prevent homes from igniting.
Research shows that dry, dense vegetation around buildings can cause wildfires to spread . In extreme conditions, high winds carry a deluge of tiny, burning embers far beyond the fire itself. When those embers get caught in vegetation, they can ignite, spreading flames to nearby buildings and homes.
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