Shasta County's updated vacant lot and defensible space ordinances (2025-2026) focus heavily on wildfire prevention in unincorporated areas, requiring weeds/grasses to be cut below 4 inches and stumps to 8 inches or less. Fully clearing parcels under two acres and maintaining a 30-foot firebreak perimeter for larger lots is required.
Key Regulations and Requirements
Defensible Space: Vegetation must be managed to reduce fire hazards. Chipped vegetation cannot exceed 6 inches in depth.
Abatement Standards: Minimum standards include clearing 30-foot firebreaks around structures and 15-foot breaks along fence lines, ditches, and creeks.
Parcel Size Rules: Parcels under 2 acres must be fully cleared; 2 to 10-acre parcels require a 30-foot perimeter clearance.
Zoning & Development: Vacant lots are subject to specific zoning density (e.g., Rural Residential A allows 1 unit per 2 acres).
Fire Safety: Development on vacant land must consider slopes (>30% requires strict analysis) and high wildland fire safety concerns.
For specific zoning or to report a violation, contact the Shasta County Planning Division or Department of Resource Management.
Go to https://www.shastacounty.gov/clerk-board/page/public-notices to download a pdf copy of the ordinance.