La Jolla residents and firefighters weigh in on San Diego's new fire prevention rules

San Diego's 'Zone Zero' rule bans flammable items within five feet of new homes in very-high fire hazard zones and takes effect in February; most existing homes have until February 2027 to comply. Local reaction in La Jolla is mixed, with firefighters urging compliance and some residents seeking exceptions.

San Diego enacted a new set of fire prevention rules called "Zone Zero" at the end of 2025. The regulations add a restriction on the five-foot area immediately next to homes, where flammable materials and certain landscaping will be prohibited. Zone Zero applies in areas labeled "very high" fire hazard severity and will first apply to new construction starting in February, with most existing homes given until February 2027 to comply. La Jolla residents and local officials discussed the changes at a Jan. 8 town meeting, with mixed reactions. Key facts: - Zone Zero addresses the five feet closest to a home and generally prohibits flammable plants, materials and fixtures in that space, including some fencing, patios and decks. - The rules were approved by the Public Safety Committee on Dec. 12 and by the full City Council four days later, both votes occurring with no discussion; the Planning Commission discussed the rules in a December workshop but did not vote. - Zone Zero initially applies only in "very high" fire hazard zones, which cover roughly two-thirds of San Diego and include parts of La Jolla; several local parks and university lands were identified as very high in a 2025 Cal Fire assessment. - The ordinance takes effect in February for new construction, and most existing homes that are not already conforming have until February 2027 to meet the requirements. - City officials said they intend to emphasize education and outreach rather than aggressive enforcement, and the Fire-Rescue Department offers home risk assessments on request. - Some residents and a landscape architect urged flexibility for fire-retardant plantings or preexisting trees, while a deputy fire chief noted that insurers may require similar measures even without strict enforcement. Summary: The rules are designed to reduce ignition risk by removing combustible materials immediately adjacent to homes and will roll out beginning in February for new builds with a two-year compliance window for most existing properties. City officials say education and outreach will be the primary approach, and discussions about possible exceptions are expected while the city awaits further state guidance.