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1. Why do I need a Fire Hazard Reduction Inspection?

The intent of the inspections and fuel management is to reduce the risk, severity, and intensity of wildfire.

There are several codes and state statutes that require defensible space in Fire Hazard Severity Zones, including the California Fire Code, California Government Code, California Public Resource Code, and Natural Resources Code that govern defensible space and fuel management in the fire hazard severity zone areas. 

2. Why am I getting a notice? How do I know if I'm in compliance?

The letter is a reminder to maintain vegetation year-round. If you receive a letter, it does not mean that you are not in compliance or that there is a violation on your property. Please follow provided guidelines.

3. Did the FHRP fee get removed? When did this happen?

The City of Ventura has cancelled the billing program associated with the Fire Hazard Reduction Program (FHRP) effective immediately. During a special meeting on Monday, December 19, 2022, the Ventura City Council voted to stop billing charges and refund all fees paid by property owners for the program. Watch a recording of that meeting on the City's YouTube channel, or read the detailed Staff Report.

4. What if I already paid the invoice?

While there is not yet a plan in place for refunding property owners, the City has begun discussions for implementing a process to refund monies already paid.  

It’s important to note that the termination of the FHRP billing program does not limit the Fire Department’s ability to impose fines for non-compliance in maintaining a defensible space. 

5. What if I haven't paid my fee but have a pending invoice?

The termination of the billing associated with the Fire Hazard Reduction Program went into effect on Monday, December 19. If you’ve received an invoice for your inspection, even if you received the invoice prior to December 19, please do not make a payment. The invoice will be voided and no repercussions for lack of payment by the listed deadline will follow. 

It’s important to note that the termination of the FHRP billing program does not limit the Fire Department’s ability to impose fines for non-compliance in maintaining a defensible space.

6. Will this fee be reinstated for the 2023 FHRP season?

The billing program associated with the Fire Hazard Reduction Program has been terminated. The fee billing will not be reinstated next season.

7. Why do I have to clear 100 feet?

You do not have to clear 100 feet. You have to maintain 100 feet of vegetation and clear all dead and dying vegetation in accordance with the adopted standards.

8. What vegetation do I need to maintain?

You must maintain all vegetation within 100 feet of your property or to the property line. View our Fire Hazard Reduction Program guidelines to ensure that your property is maintained to the California Fire Code and City of Ventura requirements. 

9. When will the inspections occur?

Inspections occur annually in mid-May. Ventura Fire Department inspectors will inspect properties in the high and very high Fire Severity Zones. Inspections take approximately one year to conduct.

10. I don’t own 100 feet of land. Do I have to still clear 100 feet?

No, you must maintain 100 feet of vegetation or just that vegetation up to your property line. 

11. How do I schedule an inspection?

We do not schedule inspections. The inspections are conducted based on specific areas within the city and inspectors will cover those areas before moving to another.

12. How do I update my mailing address?

Please email [email protected] with your property address and the new mailing address. We can only update your address in our inspection system. Please permanently change it through the tax assessor’s office.

13. How do a schedule an inspection with the Building and Safety Divison?

To schedule an inspection on an existing permit or confirm a building inspection time, visit the Building and Safety Division webpage or call 805-654-7874. For the latest schedule, view the daily inspection schedule.