Community Engagement
The Neighborhoods We Serve
The Manor
Lakeridge Estates
Even if your neighborhood is not part of the council, we are all connected. For better or worse, our neighborhoods are all woven into the same wildland around us all, and each of us has a responsibility to the other when it comes to fire readiness.
Our Partners in Government
Your local fire inspector is Daniel Liberto
Governance and fire requirements for your home
In Los Angeles County, properties in a High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ) are subject to annual defensible space inspections, requiring a 100-foot clearance around structures. An inspection is triggered when the Board of Supervisors declares properties as potential hazards. While the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) inspects improved properties, the Los Angeles County Agricultural Commissioner inspects unimproved ones. For real estate transactions, California Assembly Bill 38 (AB 38) mandates that sellers in FHSZs provide proof of compliance or a buyer agreement to obtain compliance within one year of closing escrow, according to the LAFD.
Who Performs Inspections?
-
LA County Fire Department (LAFD): Inspects improved properties.
-
LA County Agricultural Commissioner, Weights and Measures (ACWM): Inspects unimproved properties.
When Are Inspections Required?
-
Annual Program:
LA County conducts an annual defensible space inspection program for properties in identified fire hazard areas.
-
Real Estate Transactions (AB 38):
If the property is located in a High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, an inspection is required before a sale closes.
What Do The Inspections Cover?
The inspection assesses your property for fire hazards, which includes:
-
Flammable Vegetation: Hazardous brush, dry grass, and flammable plants.
-
Combustible Materials: Woodpiles, fallen leaves, needles, and other debris on the ground, roof, and gutters.
-
Structural Fire Hazards: Items under decks, around outbuildings, and within 10 feet of chimneys.
What Are the Requirements for Defensible Space?
The goal is to create 100 feet of defensible space. The specific requirements vary, but generally include:
-
Zone 0 (0-5 feet from the home): Keep this area clear of all flammable materials.
-
Zone 1 (5-30 feet from the home): Trim vegetation, remove dead material, and create horizontal and vertical space between plants.
-
Zone 2 (30-100 feet from the home): Thin natural growth, mow grass to 4 inches or less, and store combustibles away from the home.
What to Do if Your Property is In a Fire Hazard Zone
-
Use the Cal FIRE website to see if your property is in a High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone.
-
Contact Your Local Fire Department:
For properties within LA County's jurisdiction, visit the LA County Fire Department website to learn about the process.
-
For real estate transactions, you can find information on scheduling an AB 38 inspection through your local fire department or Cal FIRE.
Events
Wildfire Preparedness Fair 2025
A Wildfire Preparedness Fair hosted by the Hollywood Hills Fire Safe Council presented important public safety information, HHFSC has uploaded videos for those who were unable to attend, as it was an important event to showcase ways to get ready for future wildfire events.
The 2025 Wildfire Preparedness Fair focused on delivering up-to-date information on preparing for the next wildfire event. Numerous city, county and state officials attended and gave meaningful updates on fire safety protocols and efforts.The City of Los Angeles (CD4,CD5 and CD 11) recognized the Hollywood Hills Fire Safe Council for the work it did in helping educate the public on wildfire preparedness issues and safety tips.
As its mission statement notes, the HHFSC is committed to safeguarding the Hollywood Hills, including its residents, homes, visitors, wildlife, and iconic landmarks— the Hollywood Sign, Lake Hollywood Park, Lake Hollywood Reservoir, and Griffith Park—through robust fire prevention and safety strategies. This mission looks to reduce wildfire risks, enhance infrastructure, and secure funding for education, prevention, and enforcement initiatives.
The Wildfire Preparedness Fair was part of HHFSC efforts to offer educational resources and understand about the perils surrounding potential fire hazards in hillside areas which are significantly at risk for wildfires.
Amongst its many efforts, the HHFSC advocates for enforcement of fire safety laws, promotes capacity control, and works collaboratively with the Fire Department and other agencies to implement effective infrastructure improvements. HHFSC prioritizes the safety of people, animals, and the environment and strives to build a resilient community, prepared to face fire hazards, while preserving the unique character of the Hollywood Hills.
Prepare & Preserve
The HHFSC aims to assist hillside stakeholders understand the dangers of potential wildfires and recognize the threats and approaches to mitigate those threats.
Resources & Education
People in the Hollywood Hills need access to information and effective techniques that ensure the safety of the area from fire danger.
Resiliency & Safety
Robust fire prevention and safety strategies can reduce wildfire risks, enhance infrastructure, and secure funding for education, prevention, and enforcement.
