AB-38 Defensible Space Inspections and Compliance Reports for Real Estate Transactions in High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone.
What is required by AB-38:
Starting July 1, 2021, the seller of any real property that is in a High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ), will need documentation of a compliant Defensible Space Inspection (DSI) if the home was constructed before January 1, 2020. Please note that the AB-38 provisions are for real estate transaction disclosure and documentation only.
How do I determine in which Fire Hazard Severity Zone my property is located?
Fire Hazard Severity Zones can be found on the CAL FIRE Fire Hazard Severity Zone Viewer: https://egis.fire.ca.gov/FHSZ
If you live in State Responsibility Area (SRA), you are responsible for ensuring that your property is in compliance with California’s building and fire codes that call for homeowners to take proactive steps to protect their property from a wildfire.
California law requires that homeowners in SRA clear out flammable materials such as brush or vegetation around their buildings to 100 feet (or the property line) to create a defensible space buffer. This helps halt the progress of an approaching wildfire and keeps firefighters safe while they defend your home.
The law also requires new homes to be constructed with fire-resistant materials. By building your home with materials like fire-resistant roofing, enclosed eaves and dual-paned windows, you are hardening your home and giving it a fighting chance to survive a wildfire.
Make sure to check with your local fire station about laws in your area, as many local jurisdictions may have more stringent requirements.