Overview

• California’s State Board of Forestry is finalizing draft Zone 0 regulations that would ban nearly all vegetation within five feet of homes in high-risk fire areas.
• Scientists argue well-watered, well-pruned plants can absorb heat and intercept embers, slowing fire spread and shielding structures.
• Critics warn the one-size-fits-all removal approach oversimplifies plant flammability, which depends on species and moisture content.
• The proposal does not include mandatory home hardening measures—such as gutter covers and ember-resistant vents—raising concerns about incomplete protection.
• If enacted, California’s standards are likely to influence wildfire policies in other fire-prone regions across the United States.