The 0–5 Foot Zone and Common Trip-Ups
IBHS calls the 0–5 foot zone one of the most effective actions a homeowner can take. It is also where most of the surprises are. The zone is a continuous area around the home that contains only noncombustible materials, such as gravel, concrete, pavers, or bare mineral soil.
The rules
- No exceptions for plants
- Grass, artificial turf, roses, succulents, and cacti are all out, even if irrigated or labeled fire resistant.
- Also out
- Wood mulch, wood or vinyl fencing, stored items, and outdoor furniture, including fire-retardant furniture. Move combustible items at least 5 feet away.
- Overhanging branches
- Must be removed. The zone extends vertically to the sky.
- How it is measured
- 5 feet horizontally from the exterior wall. For an attached deck or projection, measure from the outermost posts if combustible, or from the wall if the structure is fully noncombustible.
- Trees and setbacks
- Protected trees in the zone that cannot legally be removed may make a home ineligible. If your setback is less than 5 feet, you may need to coordinate with your neighbor. If the zone cannot be achieved, the property may not qualify.
Other items that trip people up
- Firewood
- Store at least 30 feet from the home unless it is in an approved accessory structure. Fire-retardant tarps are not permitted.
- Propane and fuel tanks
- At least 30 feet from the home, or at least 10 feet away with specified noncombustible clearance and vegetation control around the tank.
- Hot tubs
- At least 10 feet from exterior walls and other large combustibles, with noncombustible material extending 2 feet around them if they sit on wood or composite decking.
- Sheds, pergolas, playsets, and ADUs
- Anything within 30 feet counts. Homes with a detached structure within 30 feet can qualify only for Essential.
See the full requirements table for everything else.