Wildfire season in Malibu is not a question of if but when. If you own a home here, you know the beauty and privacy come with responsibility. A simple, steady plan for defensible space protects your property, keeps you sale ready, and lowers stress when winds pick up. In this guide, you will get a clear annual schedule, what the law expects, and the documentation that helps your escrow move smoothly. Let’s dive in.
Why defensible space matters in Malibu
Malibu sits in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, and state law requires homeowners to maintain defensible space. California Public Resources Code 4291 sets a baseline to clear flammable vegetation and dead materials up to 100 feet from structures or to the property line. Local enforcement and inspections are handled through Los Angeles County Fire Department programs, so it is smart to follow their guidance and timing.
This is about safety and also about practicality. Insurers and lenders often check wildfire mitigation during underwriting and sale. Keeping your property in compliance, with clear documentation, reduces surprises, improves insurability, and helps you move quickly when you decide to list.
The three zones around your home
Zone 0: 0–5 feet
This is the most critical area. Keep it lean, clean, and noncombustible.
- Use hardscape, gravel, or well irrigated, low growing plants.
- Keep any mulch thin and away from siding.
- Do not store firewood, cardboard boxes, or outdoor cushions here.
- Sweep leaves and needles off steps, porches, and the base of walls.
Zone 1: 5–30 feet
Reduce fuels and remove anything that can carry fire to your home.
- Trim shrubs, separate plantings, and remove vegetation under tree canopies.
- Keep lawns mowed and irrigated as allowed.
- Clear dead branches, palm fronds, and dry brush.
- Move propane tanks, grills, and patio combustibles away from structures.
Zone 2: 30–100 feet
Thin and create spacing to slow fire and reduce intensity.
- Create separation between shrubs and trees to break up continuity.
- Prune tree canopies up 6 to 10 feet from the ground and about 10 feet between crowns.
- Remove dead trees, limbs, and heavy accumulations of leaves or needles.
- Maintain access paths and driveways so first responders can get in safely.
Top home hardening upgrades
Defensible space reduces fire intensity. Home hardening reduces the chance embers ignite your house. Prioritize these cost effective steps.
Roof and gutters
- Keep the roof and gutters free of leaves and debris.
- Consider Class A roofing when you re roof.
- Install gutter guards and clean gutters at least once a year and again before wind season.
Vents and openings
- Install ember resistant vents with 1/16 inch or 1/8 inch metal mesh as recommended.
- Screen eaves, crawlspace vents, and other openings.
- Seal gaps where embers can enter at roof to wall connections or trim.
Decks and undersides
- Remove all combustibles from on and under decks.
- Use noncombustible materials closest to the structure or screen the underside.
- Sweep out leaf litter that collects between boards and at ledger boards.
Siding and trim
- Maintain noncombustible or fire resistant cladding where practical.
- Repair loose boards, trim gaps, and flashing so embers cannot lodge.
- Keep vegetation from touching siding and fence lines connected to the house.
Windows and glass
- Consider dual pane tempered glass for large windows when you upgrade.
- Keep vegetation low and green around large glazing to reduce radiant heat.
- Close windows and doors on high risk days when possible.
A Malibu seasonal plan
Southern California dries out in late spring and stays dry into fall. Use a simple cadence so you are always a few steps ahead of the weather.
Late winter to early spring (Feb–Apr)
- Do your annual comprehensive defensible space inspection and corrective work.
- Prune trees and shrubs, remove dead plants, and thin ladder fuels.
- Clean roofs and gutters after winter storms.
- Service irrigation and adjust to drought rules, then map any plant replacements.
- Take dated before and after photos and keep contractor receipts.
Late spring to early summer (May–Jun)
- Mow seasonal grasses and re thin areas that grew fast after rain.
- Pull excess mulch away from foundations and siding.
- Inspect grills, move woodpiles, and relocate propane cylinders away from structures.
- Repair or replace damaged ember screens and vents.
Mid summer (Jul–Aug)
- Monitor irrigation and plant health to keep priority zones green.
- Walk the property monthly for new dead growth and clean it out.
- If community chipping or pickup is offered, schedule removal of cut material.
- Test hoses, hose bibs, and any pumps so they work when you need them.
Early fall and pre Santa Ana (Sep–Oct)
Do a pre season sweep. Re check gutters, decks, and the 0–5 foot zone.
Verify tree crown separations and prune for driveway clearance and access.
Remove trash, construction debris, and any temporary combustibles.
Year round habits
- Remove dead vegetation and fallen leaves promptly.
- Keep the 0–5 foot ember resistant zone clear at all times.
- After storms or high winds, walk the site for downed limbs and new hazards.
Documentation that keeps escrows smooth
Wildfire compliance often comes up in insurance underwriting and in escrow. A clean paper trail saves time and keeps negotiations calm.
- Dated before and after photos showing the house perimeter and cleared areas.
- Itemized contractor invoices that describe the scope, distances from structures, and materials removed.
- Any Los Angeles County Fire Department inspection reports or vegetation abatement documentation if obtained.
- Copies of permits if tree removal or protected work required them.
- Invoices for recent home hardening work such as vents, roofing, or ember screens.
- A brief written note disclosing your ongoing maintenance and the date of the last full sweep.
Low drama compliance tips
- Start early in the year and break work into a few small jobs to avoid a rush.
- Use licensed and insured vegetation contractors who know LA County expectations.
- Ask escrow which documentation they will accept and schedule any needed inspection early.
- Keep a defensible space folder with checklists, dates, receipts, photos, and reports.
- Coordinate with neighbors on shared boundaries and property line constraints.
Permits, inspections, and insurance
Rules can vary by parcel and project. Some tree work and larger removals may require permits through Malibu or Los Angeles County. When in doubt, contact local planning or public works before you cut. For proof of clearance, many escrows will accept a county inspection letter, a contractor certificate, or invoices with photos. Insurers may also request mitigation steps or updated documentation. The more you keep on file, the easier your renewal and any future sale become.
Local resources to consult
- CAL FIRE Ready for Wildfire guidance on home hardening and defensible space.
- Los Angeles County Fire Department vegetation management and brush clearance information.
- City of Malibu wildfire preparedness updates and program notices.
- Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety homeowner wildfire resources.
- National Fire Protection Association guidance on structure ignition and WUI best practices.
- Local Fire Safe Councils and community chipping programs when available.
Ready to plan your defensible space?
A steady, seasonal approach protects your home and keeps you sale ready without last minute stress. If you are considering a move in the next year, we can help you time the work, organize documentation for escrow, and prepare a clean listing plan that respects your privacy and goals. Schedule a Confidential Consultation with Michael Bloom Homes to talk through a practical plan that fits your property and timeline.
FAQs
How far must I clear around a Malibu home?
- California’s baseline requires up to 100 feet from structures or to the property line, and local rules may be stricter. Confirm specific expectations with Los Angeles County Fire Department.
How often should I do defensible space work?
- Do a full compliance sweep at least once a year with seasonal touch ups. Re check after storms or high winds for new hazards.
When is the best time to schedule major clearing?
- Late winter to early spring is ideal for the annual sweep. Plan a follow up check in early fall before peak Santa Ana winds.
What documents help during escrow in wildfire areas?
- Dated photos, itemized contractor invoices, and any county inspection or abatement letters are commonly requested. Keep permits and recent home hardening invoices as well.
Do I need a permit to remove trees in Malibu?
- Some removals may require permits depending on species, size, and location. Check with Malibu or Los Angeles County planning or public works before starting work.
Can I use goats, grazing, or herbicides for fuel reduction?
- These methods are sometimes used but often require permits or contractor oversight. Verify requirements with Los Angeles County Fire Department and local land management rules before proceeding.
