REVIEWED NOVEMBER 2, 2026This is a general overview, not a parcel-specific clearance plan. The issuing authority’s notice, approved fuel-modification plan, and current requirements govern your property. Honest Way Property Services provides private clearing services, not inspections, certification, or guaranteed approval.
LA County Fire service areas
For properties under LA County Fire’s jurisdiction, the County’s 2026 notice calls for:
- Vegetation management around structures extending 100 feet; up to 200 feet in extra-hazard areas.
- Cured annual grass maintained at three inches or less.
- Removal of deadwood and litter, with vegetation thinned and separated.
- At least 10 feet of brush clearance on each side of fire access roads and three feet around hydrants.
Obtain inspection guidance before removing trees or ornamental shrubs. The official report specifies corrections and a deadline. Different inspection start dates apply to desert, inland, and coastal communities.
Read LA County’s 2026 notice →City of Los Angeles / LAFD
Within the City’s Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, LAFD requires year-round vegetation management within 200 feet of structures and 10 feet of combustible fences or vehicle roadways/driveways.
- Grass and regulated brush clearance generally target three inches; qualifying spaced shrubs have exceptions.
- Tree pruning, chimney and roof clearances, and removal of roof debris are also part of the requirements.
- Cuttings must be legally removed or processed and spread within the permitted limits.
- Protected trees and shrubs remain subject to protection rules.
Clearing is prohibited on Red Flag days. LAFD also specifies equipment and fire-suppression precautions.
Read LAFD’s full requirements and safety rules →Ventura-area properties
Confirm the fire authority for the address before using another jurisdiction’s checklist. Ventura County Fire Department’s 2026 program notice gave participating properties a June 1, 2026 clearance deadline. That is a past program date, not a universal deadline for every city, property, or year.
Use the current parcel notice for the required work and timing. For VCFD program questions, its published contact is (805) 389-9759.
Read VCFD’s 2026 program update →Before we review your project
- Identify the property city, issuing agency, and notice due date.
- List the specific corrections requested by the inspector.
- Describe the approximate clearing area, slope, vegetation, and access.
- Identify property boundaries, protected vegetation, and any access restrictions.
- Agree on debris handling and any work that requires another qualified provider.
Do not assume clearing means stripping the land bare. Confirm pruning, erosion protection, and vegetation-retention requirements before work begins. A completed cleanup does not replace an official inspection.