​The Sonoma Valley Fire District (SVFD) enforces comprehensive defensible space regulations to mitigate wildfire risks. These requirements apply to both improved (with structures) and unimproved parcels within the district, encompassing areas under both Local Responsibility Area (LRA) and State Responsibility Area (SRA) jurisdictions. Compliance is mandated year-round, as outlined in Sonoma County Code Chapter 13A and related state laws.

MAINTAIN DEFENSIBLE SPACE

State and Local ordinances that relate to Vegetation Management and Defensible Space are enforceable year round. Property Owners are required to maintain safe and defendable properties year round in compliance with the laws. 

Keep your property lean and green to help protect your family, home, and your community.

Defensible space is essential to improve your home’s chance of surviving a wildfire. It’s the buffer you create between a building on your property and the grass, trees, shrubs, or any wildland area that surround it.  This space is needed to slow or stop the spread of wildfire and it helps protect your home from catching fire—either from direct flame contact,  radiant or convective heat.  Defensible space is also important for the protection of the firefighters defending your home.

We understand that determining what is actually required can be challenging. We put this page together to help you navigate the confusion. The first thing a property owner must do is determine what geographical area they are located in.

The Sonoma Valley Fire District provides service to the City of Sonoma and portions of Unincorporated Sonoma County in both the Local and State Responsibility areas. It is essential to know if you are in the State Responsibility Area (SRA) The Local Responsibility Area (LRA).  IS MY PROPERTY IN THE SRA OR LRA? 

Unincorporated Areas

Sonoma County Code Chapter 13A - DUTY TO MAINTAIN DEFENSIBLE SPACE AND ABATE HAZARDOUS VEGETATION AND COMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL

Info and specifics - Sonoma County Website 

Incorporated - City of Sonoma 

High / Very High Fire Fire Hazard Severity Zones within the City Limits of Sonoma - PRC 4291

Moderate or No Fire Hazard Severity Zones within the City Limits of Sonoma - Municipal Code 

Reference Links

Sonoma County Fire Hazard Severity Zone Viewer / LRA SRA Viewer

Unincorporated Sonoma County LRA / SRA - refined condensed verion

What is required - Photos and examples

CLICK HERE - Improved Parcels in the LRA

CLICK HERE - Improved Parcels in the SRA

CLICK HERE - Unimproved parcels in the LRA/SRA

CLICK HERE - Requirements for properties located in the City of Sonoma

CLICK HERE - Requirements for improved parcels located in the City of Sonoma - High / Very High FHSZ