Zone 0 update for Scripps Ranch

By Dave Mason
Scripps Ranch Fire Safe Council

We recently wrapped up a very successful Open House at Fire Station 37 in Scripps Ranch, and we were glad to hear that many of the residents who stopped by had already heard about Zone 0 and the role it may play in wildfire safety here in our community.

Because there was so much interest, we wanted to share the latest guidance we’ve learned.

This issue matters in Scripps Ranch because nearly all of our community is in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. Scripps Ranch community information says about 98 percent of Scripps Ranch falls within that designation.

Zone 0 refers to the first five feet around a home. Fire officials are focusing on that area because it is one of the places where wind-blown embers can most easily ignite a structure during a wildfire. In the City of San Diego, defensible space guidance identifies Zone 0 as 0 to 5 feet, followed by Zone 1 from 5 to 30 feet and Zone 2 from 30 to 100 feet. The City also says new structures in these zones built after Feb. 28, 2026 must meet Zone 0 requirements, and existing homeowners should work toward the guidelines by February 2027.

In simple terms, Zone 0 means taking a close look at what is right next to our homes. Leaves, mulch, stacked firewood and other flammable materials near walls, windows, fences and decks can increase risk. Safer choices in that first five feet include materials like gravel, pavers, or concrete.

For us in Scripps Ranch, this is not just another regulation. It is a reminder that small, practical steps around our homes can make a real difference.

For more information, visit srfiresafe.org or email srfiresafe@gmail.com.