Did you know that under California’s AB 38, homes located in a High Fire Zone or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone may need a Defensible Space Inspection before an escrow closes? In Ventura County, CA, many buyers and sellers aren’t aware of their high fire zone status until it’s too late—leading to unexpected delays and added costs. Let’s make sure you’re prepared.
Why Understanding Your High Fire Zone Status Matters
🚨 Avoid closing delays: If your property falls in a high fire zone, a clearance inspection may be mandatory.
💰 Insurance implications: Wildfire exposure in Ventura County can drive premiums higher—or even deny coverage for homes in a high fire zone.
✅ Peace of mind: Knowing your property’s high fire zone status early means you can plan defensible space landscaping before the stress sets in.
How to Check if Your Property Is in a High Fire Zone
- Visit the California Fire Hazard Severity Zone map (official state tool)
- Enter the property’s address—your future home, or your current one.
- If it shows High or Very High, it is considered a high fire zone, and you may need to:
- Schedule a Defensible Space Inspection under AB 38
- Formally disclose: “High Fire Area” status to buyers or lenders
What Buyers & Sellers in Ventura County Should Know
Buyers
- Pause escrow timelines—a required inspection for a high fire zone home may add 3–5 extra days.
- Negotiate with sellers on landscaping costs for necessary clearances.
Sellers
- Pre-inspect: Avoid last-minute issues or renegotiations on a high fire zone property.
- Use defensible space measures to enhance safety and property appeal.
Real-Life Scenario
Consider Camarillo Hills in Ventura County: A home under contract turned out to be in a High Fire Zone. The escrow was paused until landscaping cleared vegetation—and listing disclosures were updated. A buyer-friendly seller
Recommended Next Steps for High Fire Zone Homes
✔️ Check your property using the free California AB 38 map tool.
✔️ If flagged as a high fire zone, contact a licensed fire clearance inspector.
✔️ Plan defensible space improvements early in your escrow.
Ready to Check Your High Fire Zone Status?
Send me a message today at Real Estate Magic and I’ll walk you through each step—from map lookup to inspection prep. Don’t leave your home’s safety and closing timeline to chance: let’s get ahead of the wildfire risk together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a High Fire Zone under AB 38
A state‑defined classification for areas at greatest wildfire risk, determined using official hazard maps.
Who schedules the Defensible Space Inspection?
Either the buyer or seller—check your purchase contract and consult your real estate agent.
How much does an inspection cost?
Typically $200–$400, and it may be required by your lender before closing occurs.