top of page

Landscape Design for Fire Prevention in Southern California

Wildfires are an increasing concern across Southern California, especially in hillside and wildland-urban interface (WUI) communities. As Cal Fire updates fire hazard maps and California strengthens building codes, homeowners are looking for ways to make their landscapes both beautiful and resilient. At Stem and Stone Design, we specialize in creating outdoor spaces that meet the highest design standards while protecting your property from wildfire risk.

609480fa-c3ac-46d8-9e21-f3be43e66ba5.png

Updated Building Codes in Fire Zones

California has adopted strict Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) codes, including Chapter 7A of the California Building Code. These rules require:

  • Fire-resistant construction materials (roofing, siding, decks, vents).

  • Mandatory defensible space zones with vegetation management.

  • Ember-resistant design strategies around homes.

New statewide wildfire-resiliency standards go into effect January 1, 2026. Many properties in Southern California are now reclassified as “high” or “very high” risk zones. If you live in one of these areas, your home and landscape must comply with stricter fire-safe requirements.

Defensible Space: Zones of Protection

We design properties with layered fire safety zones:

  • Zone 1 (0–5 ft from the home): A buffer of non-combustible materials such as gravel, stone, or concrete. No plants or mulch against walls.

  • Zone 2 (5–30 ft): Fire-resistant, low-growing plants placed with spacing to prevent fire spread.

  • Zone 3 (30–100 ft): Larger shrubs and trees, maintained with clearance between canopies and away from structures.

This zoning approach—“low, lean, and green”—reduces fire intensity and provides firefighters with a safer space to defend your property.

Fire-Resistant Plants

Southern California’s native plants and drought-tolerant species can enhance beauty while lowering fire risk. We recommend:

  • Natives: California lilac (Ceanothus), buckwheat (Eriogonum), manzanita (Arctostaphylos), sagebrush (Artemisia californica), coyote brush (Baccharis pilularis).

  • Succulents & water-storing plants: Aloe, agave, yucca, and cactus.

  • Ornamental shrubs: Flannelbush (Fremontodendron), toyon, and other hardy species with high moisture content.

We avoid highly flammable species such as eucalyptus, juniper, and invasive ornamental grasses.

Fire-Smart Materials & Hardscape

  • Preferred materials: Stone, gravel, decomposed granite, concrete, and brick.

  • Avoid: Wood mulch, bark chips, or combustible decking near structures.

  • Integration: Patios, walkways, and stone walls can double as firebreaks, blending safety with outdoor living.

Irrigation & Maintenance

Even the best design requires upkeep. Our fire-wise plans include:

  • Smart irrigation systems (drip and automated scheduling) to keep plants hydrated.

  • Regular maintenance: clearing leaf litter, pruning branches at least 6 ft off the ground and 10 ft away from the roofline, and cleaning gutters.

  • Seasonal reviews to adapt plantings and materials as your landscape matures.

Why Choose Stem and Stone Design

We combine artistry with safety—creating outdoor spaces that celebrate Southern California living while meeting today’s wildfire prevention standards. Our fire-resistant designs:

  • Comply with California’s evolving building codes.

  • Incorporate defensible space and fire-resistant plants.

  • Use beautiful, durable hardscape materials.

  • Protect your property investment while enhancing curb appeal.

Take the Next Step

If you live in a high-risk fire area of Southern California, now is the time to plan your fire-resistant landscape. Contact Stem and Stone Design today to start your custom fire-smart design consultation.

Legal Disclaimer

The information provided by Stem and Stone Design regarding fire-smart and fire-resistant landscaping is intended for general educational and informational purposes only. While every effort is made to provide accurate and up-to-date guidance, we do not guarantee that following these practices will prevent property damage or loss due to wildfire.

Wildfire behavior is unpredictable, and outcomes depend on many factors outside the scope of landscape design, including but not limited to weather conditions, surrounding vegetation, and proximity to wildfire ignition sources.

Compliance with local, state, and federal building codes and fire regulations, including California’s Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) standards, is the sole responsibility of the property owner. Clients should consult with local fire authorities, contractors, and permitting agencies to confirm requirements for their specific property.

Stem and Stone Design shall not be held liable for any loss, damage, or injury resulting from the use of the information or services provided.

Terms of Use

By accessing this webpage or working with Stem and Stone Design, you acknowledge and agree that:

  1. All content provided is “as is” without warranty of any kind.

  2. Landscape plans and recommendations are conceptual and may require review or modification to meet local code and permitting requirements.

  3. Final installation, materials, and maintenance practices are the responsibility of the property owner and/or their chosen contractor.

  4. Stem and Stone Design is not responsible for ongoing property maintenance, inspection, or code enforcement.

  5. Nothing on this site constitutes legal, safety, or engineering advice. Clients should seek independent professional advice where appropriate.

bottom of page