ZONE 0

Fire-Resistant Fencing

Protect Your Home & Meet Insurance Requirements

Zone 0 is a 5-foot ember-resistant area around a home that's required by some insurance companies and fire safety regulations in high-fire risk areas. The goal of Zone 0 is to reduce the risk of home ignition by removing flammable materials.

Get a free quote

Your First Line of Defense Against Wildfire Starts at Zone 0

What is Zone 0?

Zone 0 is the first 0-5 feet around your home, including the area where your fence may connect to your house. In a wildfire, this zone is at the highest risk for ember ignition.

To reduce fire risk in Zone 0, experts recommend:

✅ Installing non-combustible fencing instead of traditional wooden fences

Why Homeowners (and Insurers) Care About Zone 0

🏡 Your Home’s #1 Wildfire Defense

A properly maintained Zone 0 can reduce your home’s fire risk by 70% or more.
A fire-resistant fence stops flames from spreading directly to your home.

🔥 California Fire Code (AB 3074)
Requires Zone 0

Starting in 2025, California will require homeowners in fire-prone areas to clear Zone 0 of flammable materials.
A wood fence attached to a home may violate fire safety codes, putting your insurance at risk.

💰 Insurance & Compliance Benefits

Many insurance companies require a defensible space plan, including a fire-safe fence.
Some homeowners receive insurance discounts for implementing fire mitigation strategies.
Avoid policy cancellations or premium increases due to non-compliance.

Zone 0 Fire-Safe Fencing Options

California's Zone 0 regulations emphasize using non-combustible or fire-resistant materials to prevent wildfire spread. If your fence is attached to your home or within 5 feet of a structure, it must not be made of combustible materials like untreated wood.

Approved Fire-Resistant Fencing Materials for Zone 0

Metal Fencing (Best for Fire Resistance)
✔ Steel, Aluminum, or Wrought Iron – 100% non-combustible and highly durable.
✔ Chain-link fencing (with metal or fire-resistant privacy screens) is acceptable.
✔ Pros: Completely fireproof, long-lasting, requires minimal maintenance.

Masonry & Concrete Fencing (Best for Maximum Protection)
✔ Concrete Block, Brick, or Stone Walls – These create a fireproof barrier between your home and an approaching wildfire.
✔ Stucco-covered walls offer excellent fire resistance.
✔ Pros: Acts as a firebreak, provides privacy, and reduces noise.

Composite Fencing (Fire-Rated Materials Only)
✔ Some fire-resistant composite fences (made from a mix of wood fibers and plastic) are approved if they have a Class A fire rating.
✔ Look for brands tested to meet ASTM E84 standards (flame spread rating).
✔ Pros: Aesthetic appeal of wood with better fire resistance.

Hybrid Fencing Solutions (Wood + Fire-Resistant Materials)
✔ If you prefer a wood look, consider metal or masonry posts with fire-resistant panels.
✔ Example: A concrete or metal base with composite or ignition-resistant wood panels.
✔ Pros: Offers fire resistance while maintaining a more traditional fence appearance.

Fencing Materials NOT Recommended for Zone 0

❌ Wood fences (untreated or pressure-treated lumber)
❌ Vinyl fences (can melt and burn under extreme heat)
❌ Bamboo or other plant-based fences (highly flammable)

If a wooden fence connects to your home, it should have a metal gate or non-combustible section within 5 feet of the structure.