In the devastating fires of January, fierce winds carried embers across burning hillsides, setting homes, fences, and garden furniture ablaze. These flames quickly spread from one property to another as the winds propelled countless more embers through the air, igniting new fires across neighborhoods. While we could debate whether more ground firefighters, aerial support, or water reserves might have reduced the destruction, fire scientists agree on one crucial point: prevention is key.
Recognizing this, the California Legislature took action in late 2020 with Assembly Bill 3074. This bill demands that homes in areas most vulnerable to fires create a five-foot perimeter of defensible space. While existing laws already require clearing brush and dead leaves within 100 feet of residences, this legislation introduces a more immediate buffer zone — dubbed Zone Zero. It might not make a home fireproof, but it significantly boosts a homeowner’s defense against encroaching embers.
However, there’s a snag: the law hasn’t been implemented yet. The Board of Forestry and Fire Protection was tasked with establishing the rules for Zone Zero by January 2023. Despite having four years, they are now two years past due.
In light of intensifying fires, this delay is not just impractical — it’s negligent. What’s the holdup? Deciding that wooden fences or flammable plants shouldn’t reside within five feet of a home isn’t rocket science. According to Christine McMorrow from Cal Fire, the board is fast-tracking their efforts. They must weigh numerous factors, such as financial implications for homeowners, to determine which precautions are most essential. McMorrow explained, “We prioritize education over penalties to help homeowners understand the need to give up wooden structures.”
The main challenge seems to be nailing down specifics: What should or shouldn’t be allowed on decks? What are suitable materials for decks? Are doormats out of the question? Should window frames be metal? While these questions may present difficulties, four years is excessive for establishing these rules. Regardless of political backlash, these decisions are necessary. Homes in fire-prone areas are already held to standards requiring fire-resistant materials and ember-resistant vents. Zone Zero could further address materials like siding.
Fortunately, Cal Fire already provides guidance on these matters. Homeowners don’t have to wait for formal legislation to create their own Zone Zero. Essentially, anything flammable is discouraged: no mulch, no flammable furniture, no wood chips. Choose pavers, gravel, or concrete instead.
The Board of Forestry and Fire Protection will discuss the rules in their March meeting, but a final decision isn’t expected then. Once rules are set, they’ll still undergo the state’s rulemaking process, including public input.
This delay is glaringly obvious. On February 6, Governor Gavin Newsom issued an executive order, pressing the board to propose rules and present them for public feedback within 45 days, and to finalize them by December 31 of this year. However, such a timeline means that by year’s end, reconstruction in Los Angeles County’s burnt areas will already be well underway.
Once solidified, these regulations will be applicable first to new constructions; existing homes will need to be updated within a few years. The cost of materials will surely be lower than rebuilding a devastated home.
These measures aren’t just about saving individual homes; they bolster the safety of entire neighborhoods. More defensible spaces mean a stronger defense for the community as a whole. “It’s a community ignition and community structure problem,” explains seasoned fire scientist Jack Cohen. Even if an entire neighborhood adheres strictly to Zone Zero, risks remain, but their survival chances improve significantly.
There’s never been a more crucial time to enforce Zone Zero, especially with thousands poised to rebuild or sell their fire-devastated properties. Implementing Zone Zero broadly could markedly enhance fire safety across Los Angeles County.
Yet, even as statewide policymaking lags, local governments can adopt their Zone Zero regulations. Several areas have already done so. Both Los Angeles County and the city could follow suit.
Homeowners rebuilding their homes should seriously consider maintaining a five-foot defensible space, even if state rules are not in effect. Sacrificing combustible materials and plants is a minor trade-off to protect homes and neighborhoods when embers inevitably rain down again on L.A.
