The 100-foot defensible-space rule can stop at a property line, but not always

First, check the property’s fire area. It may be in a State Responsibility Area or a very high hazard Local Responsibility Area. Then confirm that the defensible-space law applies there.

Public Resources Code section 4291 can cover a person who owns, leases, controls, operates, or maintains a building. That person generally must manage fire fuel for 100 feet on each side of a covered building. The work does not go past the property line.

But the property line is not always the limit. A state or local law, rule, regulation, or ordinance may require more distance. Work on adjacent land needs the neighboring owner’s written consent. Do not clear a neighbor’s land on your own.

The law also calls for at least 10 feet between tree branches and a chimney or stovepipe outlet. Remove leaves, needles, and dead plants from roofs and gutters. Fuel work does not mean cutting down every living plant. Follow the local inspector or fire agency on spacing and allowed plants. Also follow environmental limits and any stricter local rule.