How to Pass a Fire Inspection in San Bernardino County: Brush Clearance Checklist

Why Brush Clearance Matters in San Bernardino County

In a high-risk wildfire zone like San Bernardino County, brush clearance isn’t optional—it’s required by law. Each year, fire inspectors visit properties to ensure that vegetation is properly managed to reduce the risk of wildfire spread.

Failing a fire inspection can lead to citations, forced abatement, and hefty clean-up fees—sometimes added to your property taxes. Fortunately, you can avoid all of that with proper preparation and consistent maintenance.

When Do Fire Inspections Happen?

Fire hazard inspections typically occur between spring and early fall, depending on your location:

• Valley and desert areas: 2 inspections per year
  
• Mountain communities (Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead, etc.): 1 inspection per year during summer
  

Inspections are conducted by San Bernardino County’s Fire Hazard Abatement (FHA) Division under County Code §§ 23.0301–23.0319.

Brush Clearance Requirements by Area

The county’s requirements vary slightly by terrain, but the general principles are the same: cut, clear, remove, and maintain. Here's a breakdown:

Brush Clearance Checklist

1. Grasses & Weeds

• Cut all grass and weeds to 4 inches or less across the entire property
  
• Clear 10 feet from roadways and driveways
  
• Remove grass from around propane tanks, sheds, fences, and other structures
  

2. Pine Needles, Leaves & Debris

• Remove all pine needles, leaves, and plant debris from:
  
  • Roofs
    
  • Rain gutters
    
  • Porches and decks
    
• Keep a 2-inch maximum depth for ground cover mulch or leaf litter
  

3. Trees & Shrubs

• Trim tree branches 6 feet off the ground
  
• Maintain 10 feet spacing between tree canopies
  
• Remove all dead or dry branches, especially those touching structures
  
• Keep shrubs at least 15 feet from structures and 10 feet from roadways
  

4. Firewood & Storage

• Store firewood at least 30 feet from any structure
  
• Keep stacked wood covered and away from brush or dry vegetation
  
• Remove old lumber, scrap wood, and flammable debris piles
  

5. Other Vegetation

• Remove dead bushes, tumbleweeds, brush piles, and overgrowth
  
• Thin out dense vegetation to improve visibility and reduce fire spread
  
• Remove invasive or highly flammable plant species if noted
  

6. Structures & Fencing

• Keep vegetation trimmed away from:
  
• • Fences
    
  • Detached garages and sheds
    
  • Decks, stairs, and outdoor furniture
    

• Do not allow vines or shrubs to grow against walls or roofs

Pro Tips for Passing Inspection

• Start early: Don’t wait until inspection notices arrive—get ahead in late winter or early spring
  
• Hire professionals: For large properties or steep terrain, hire licensed brush clearing or fire abatement services
  
• Document your work: Take date-stamped photos of your cleared property in case of disputes
  
• Keep it ongoing: Fire safety is not a one-time task—schedule monthly checkups during fire season

What Happens If You Fail?

1. Notice to Abate: You’ll have 30 days to fix violations
   
2. Citation: If you don’t comply, you may receive a $100+ fine
   
3. Forced Abatement: The County may send a contractor to clear your property—and you’ll foot the bill
   
4. Billing & Liens: Unpaid charges may be added to your property taxes or result in a lien

Final Thoughts

Staying fire-safe in San Bernardino County isn’t just about following the rules—it’s about protecting your home, your neighbors, and your community. Use this brush clearance checklist each season to pass inspections confidently and reduce your wildfire risk.

Need help with brush clearance or debris hauling? Contact a local fire abatement or junk removal service to make the process easier and compliant.