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Wildfire Risk in Benicia:
Benicia faces unique wildfire risks, especially from wind-driven embers. Use this page to check your home’s risk zone, learn key safety steps, and stay informed about changing regulations and local programs.
Top 6 Things Benicia Homeowners Should Know
Understanding wildfire risk starts at home. These six key steps will help you create defensible space, reduce ember ignition hazards, and keep your property safer year-round.
1️⃣ Know Your Fire Zone
Check the updated 2025 Cal Fire Fire Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ) map to see if your home is in a Moderate, High, or Very High fire-risk area. This determines which rules and recommendations apply to your property.
2️⃣ New in 2026
Homes in moderate and higher fire zones must keep the first 0–5 feet around the home clear of flammable material, such as wood mulch, stored items, or plants touching the structure.
Check with Cal Fire or the Benicia Fire Department for updates.
3️⃣ Defensible Space (0–100 Feet)
Create and maintain defensible space by:
Clearing dry vegetation,
Trimming trees,
Separating shrubs.
This slows fire spread toward your home and is legally required in California.
4️⃣ Roof & Vents
Your roof and vents are prime ember entry points.
Use Class A fire-rated roofing.
Cover attic and soffit vents with ⅛-inch metal mesh to block embers from entering.
5️⃣ Windows & Siding
Install dual-pane windows, ideally with tempered glass, to reduce heat vulnerability.
Maintain non-combustible siding or exterior materials to protect walls from radiant heat and embers.
6️⃣ Ongoing Maintenance
Fire safety isn’t a one-time project — it’s year-round work.
Clear gutters, decks, and roofs of leaves and needles regularly.
Remove dead vegetation and debris to keep ignition risks low.
Quick Links & Resources
Homeowner Fire-Safety Guidance
Check your fire zone first — Find out whether your home is on a Moderate, High, or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone map. Updated in 2025, these maps are your starting point.
Zone 0 (the first 5 feet) matters most — Embers are the top cause of home ignitions. Create a clear, ember-resistant space within 5 feet of your house.
Follow the 0–100 ft defensible-space idea — Think in zones: Zone 0 (0–5 ft), Zone 1 (5–30 ft), Zone 2 (30–100 ft). Regular maintenance slows wildfire spread.
Simple things to do now — Remove combustible mulch near the house, clear gutters and roofs, trim and separate tree branches, screen vents, and store firewood away from structures.
Watch for rule updates and local programs — New rules are expected by late 2025. Check for local programs or grants that may apply.
This is guidance—verify before acting — Always check with Cal Fire, your city fire department, or the State Fire Marshal before making permanent changes.
*Note: The items above are friendly guidance to help you make your home safer. Local rules and state regulations can change — please verify details and compliance timelines with official sources (Cal Fire, your city/county fire department, or the State Fire Marshal) before making permanent changes to your property.*
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