California is nearing the finish line on regulating what items can be stored and what plants can be grown within 5 feet of your home, the area known as “zone zero.”

The state Board of Forestry and Fire Protection advisory committee heard public comment and discussed the rules Thursday at one of its final meetings of 2025 before it presents its proposals to the full board.

Debate has swirled for years over how the state should regulate zone zero, which often includes wooden fences, firewood piles and trees overhanging homes, all of which can combust and spread flames to structures during wildfires.

What’s the latest?

The most recent draft rule language is subject to change, but some of the proposed regulations are as follows:

“Keeping roofs, gutters and the area within 5 [feet] of

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