FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 6, 2026
Glendale Fire Department Contact: Cheryl Getuiza
Email: CGetuiza@GlendaleCA.gov
Phone: (818) 550-5625
City Media Contact: Communications and Community Relations
Email: Communications@GlendaleCA.gov
Phone: (818) 548-4844
Zone Zero Wildfire Rules Delayed:
What Glendale Homeowners Need to Know
Glendale, CA - California officials have announced a delay in finalizing the state’s proposed “Zone Zero” wildfire safety regulations. While the rules are not yet in effect, the Glendale Fire Department is encouraging residents to act now to better protect their homes from wildfire.
What Is Zone Zero?
Zone Zero is the first five feet around a home or building. This area is critical because most homes lost during wildfires are not destroyed by flames, but by flying embers that land near structures and ignite flammable materials. Zone Zero rules would require homeowners in high wildfire-risk areas to keep this five-foot zone free of combustible materials.
What’s Changing and What’s Not:
The California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection has delayed finalizing the Zone Zero regulations. Here’s what residents should know:
- The state now expects to finalize Zone Zero rules in early 2026
- Requirements for existing homes are estimated to take effect around 2029
- The delay is not a step back from wildfire safety
- State officials are working to ensure the rules are fair, affordable, and practical
- When implemented, enforcement is expected to focus on education first, not fines
Why the Delay?
State officials are still discussing:
- How much vegetation should be cleared
- What is reasonable and affordable for homeowners
- How to balance wildfire safety with environmental concerns
- What Homeowners Should Do Now
Even though the rules are delayed, wildfire science is clear: creating a safer area around your home now can greatly improve its chance of surviving a wildfire.
The Glendale Fire Department recommends the following simple steps:
- Clear the first 5 feet: Remove all combustible items near your home, including leaves, dry plants, wood piles, and decorations.
- Remove dead vegetation: Regularly clear dead or dying plants and weeds.
- Move flammable items away: Store mulch, firewood, and flammable décor away from walls, windows, and vents.
- Use fire-resistant landscaping: Choose well-maintained plants and materials that are less likely to ignite.
“Zone Zero is one of the most effective ways to protect a home from wildfire,” said Fire Chief Jeff Brooks. “Even without a formal mandate, residents can take these steps today to significantly reduce risk. Preparing early can make a real difference.”
The Glendale Fire Department and the City of Glendale will continue to share updates as state regulations move forward and will provide residents with education and resources to help them prepare well ahead of any future deadlines.
For more information on wildfire preparedness and how to protect your home, visit GlendaleCA.gov/Fire.
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About the Glendale Fire Department: The Class 1-rated Glendale Fire Department protects nearly 200,000 residents with nine fire stations, over 240 personnel, and advanced life support on every engine. In 2024, GFD responded to more than 22,000 calls. Its Verdugo Fire Communications Center also serves 14 partner agencies, handling over 175,000 calls with industry-leading response times.
About Glendale: Known as the “Jewel City,” Glendale is the fourth largest city of Los Angeles County. With a population of almost 200,000, Glendale is a thriving cosmopolitan city that is rich in history, culturally diverse, and offers nearly 50 public parks & facilities, with easy access to a municipal airport. It is the home to a vibrant business community, with major companies in healthcare, entertainment, manufacturing, retail, and banking. Visit GlendaleCA.gov for more information and follow us on social media @MyGlendale.
