In areas served by OCFA, builders and owners of developments in fire hazard areas need OCFA approval of a Fuel Modification Plan and its installation. Many cities in the county (for example Laguna Beach and Newport Beach) run their own fire departments and publish similar guidelines, so check who serves your address.
OCFA zones
| Zone | Minimum width | Character |
|---|---|---|
| A | 20 ft | Flat, level ground; no combustible construction; no grouping of shrubs |
| B | 50 ft | Permanently irrigated, approved plants only; non-approved vegetation removed |
| C and D | 50 ft each | Thinning zones, non-irrigated native vegetation |
The standard Fuel Modification Zone is 170 ft wide, measured horizontally from the structure in all directions, under OCFA Guideline C-05 (revised January 1, 2026). Some projects use different widths.
Plant lists
OCFA publishes an Undesirable Plant List (Attachment 7 of Guideline C-05) and plant palettes. Check every species against them before planting in Zones A and B.
Contact
OCFA Community Risk Reduction, 1 Fire Authority Road, Building A, Irvine, CA 92602 · 714-573-6100 · ocfa.org.
Sources: OCFA Guideline C-05 (2026) · Laguna Beach Fire Dept.. Details change; confirm with the agency before you design or submit.
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