Berkeley is poised to implement a new ordinance mandating the creation of a five-foot “ember-resistant zone,” or “Zone 0,” around homes situated in high fire-risk areas, particularly those near Tilden Regional Park. This initiative aims to mitigate the risk of homes igniting from wind-driven embers during wildfires.
What residents need to know
The ordinance would prohibit most plants and combustible materials within five feet of structures. Exceptions include mature trees taller than the structure, provided their lowest branches are at least 10 feet above the roofline. Combustible items such as wooden or vinyl fences, playsets, trellises, pergolas, shade coverings, attached window boxes, privacy walls, boats, RVs, and trash/recycle bins would also be banned within this zone.…