Malibu may require Zone Zero inspections when homes are sold Play

Malibu homes might have to pass a test for fire-safe landscaping when they're sold, under one proposal being kicked around by the Malibu Public Safety Commission. But the commissioners Tuesday night said they want the City Council to make a decision on this soon.

The issue is Zone Zero — the new state law taking effect this fall or winter in all very high fire risk areas in California, including all of Malibu. The state rules require the removal of all combustible materials from within five feet of any structure or attached deck.

Zone Zero also bans dense or woody plants directly under eaves or near building walls. Mature trees would have to be trimmed back to prevent potential fire ladders, and Zone Zero prohibits wooden decks and wooden fences that are attached to houses.

Enforcement of Zone Zero, when it takes full effect, will be up to the L.A. County Fire Department, but the city Public Safety Department may move faster. The city is considering requiring houses to pass a Zone Zero enforcement inspection as they're being sold, and the city is considering how to handle complaints about Zone Zero violations coming from one neighbor against another.

The Public Safety Commission agreed that the City Council will have to make a decision on this, and they're hoping the City Council does that as soon as possible.