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Protect your property in Pasadena, Altadena, and Alhambra with California Tree Design’s expert brush clearance services. As areas prone to brush fires, these communities fall within Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (VHFHSZ). The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) has updated its brush clearance requirements to combat the growing threat of wildfires, such as the La Tuna, Creek, and Skirball fires. Effective since February 9, 2017, these regulations ensure fire safety and compliance. Let us help you stay safe and compliant year-round.
To reduce fire risks, the Los Angeles City Council has introduced stricter rules for brush fire clearance in VHFHSZ:
• Non-Sparking Tools: Use only non-ferrous, non-sparking metal cutting blades for grass or brush clearance.
• No Clearance on Red Flag Days: Clearance is prohibited during peak fire weather conditions.
• Focused Operations: Individuals must focus solely on clearance tasks, avoiding other activities.
• Fire Suppression Tools: Keep an approved fire extinguisher or pressurized garden hose with nozzle within 10 feet of clearance activities.
• Emergency Access: Have a charged cell phone capable of dialing 9-1-1 readily accessible.
Read the full ordinance on the LAFD website.
Property owners in VHFHSZ must maintain year-round compliance with the Los Angeles Fire Code (L.A.M.C. 57.4906.5.2). Requirements apply to vegetation within 200 feet of structures, 10 feet of combustible fences, or 10 feet of roadways/driveways:
Grass and Native Brush:
– Cut grass to 3 inches in height.
– Reduce native brush to 3 inches, except for individual native shrubs spaced 18 feet apart, trimmed to 1/3 of their height with dead material removed.
Trees and Shrubs:
– For trees over 18 feet, trim branches so no foliage is within 6 feet of the ground; remove dead material.
– For trees/shrubs under 18 feet, remove lower branches to 1/3 of their height; clear dead material.
– Keep tree foliage 10 feet from chimney outlets.
– Maintain 5 feet of vertical clearance between roof surfaces and overhanging branches.
Roof Maintenance:
– Keep roofs free of leaves, needles, twigs, and combustible debris.
Debris Disposal:
– Remove cut vegetation legally. Chipped material may be spread at a depth of 3 inches within 30 feet of structures and 6 inches beyond, but not within 10 feet of usable roadsides.
Native Protected Trees and Shrubs:
– Compliance with LAMC 46.00-46.06 is required to protect native species.
For full details, visit VMS3.lafd.org under “Clearance Requirement.”
California Tree Design specializes in fire-safe vegetation management for Pasadena, Altadena, and Alhambra. Our certified arborists offer:
Compliant Brush Fire Clearance: Using non-sparking tools, we meet LAFD standards to reduce fire risks.
Tree Trimming and Care: We trim trees and remove dead material to ensure safety and health.
Native Species Protection: We balance fire safety with compliance for protected trees and shrubs.
Year-Round Maintenance: Stay prepared with our regular inspections and clearance services.
Vegetation management is a continuous responsibility in fire-prone areas. Clear early, clear often, and trust professionals to avoid risks. Watch LAFD’s Brush Fire Inspection Training and On-Site Inspections videos for more guidance.
Contact California Tree Design today for expert brush clearance and tree care.