There are a lot of American voters who regret living under Newsom’s leadership right now.
A long-delayed California regulation backed by Gov. Gavin Newsom is moving forward—and critics warn it could force millions of homeowners to tear out gardens, flowers, and landscaping near their homes in the name of wildfire prevention.
The plan, referred to as “Zone Zero,” would force homeowners to clear all vegetation and flammable materials within five feet of their houses, regardless of whether the landscaping is carefully maintained or considered low risk. For many Californians—particularly retirees and long-time residents—this could mean removing gardens they’ve nurtured for years.
State estimates suggest the rule would apply to roughly two million homeowners statewide.
A Policy Years in the Making—and Years Delayed
The controversial requirement stems from a 2020 state law authored by former Assemblymember Laura Friedman and signed by Newsom. The law ordered the creation of a vegetation-free buffer zone around homes and instructed the California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection to finalize enforcement rules by January 1, 2023.
That deadline passed long ago.
State officials have repeatedly delayed the rollout amid widespread criticism from homeowners, city officials, and environmental advocates who argue the policy goes too far and unfairly targets private property owners.
Homeowners Push Back
In communities like Berkeley, residents voiced strong opposition to what many called an anti-garden mandate. While local officials ultimately approved rules aimed at complying with the state directive, frustration among residents remains high.
“It’s deeply upsetting for people who value the natural environment,” East Bay resident Rhonda Gruska told the San Francisco Chronicle. “Many of us take pride in our plants and don’t want to be forced to remove them in favor of concrete.”
Similar resistance has surfaced across Southern California, including neighborhoods that have already suffered devastating wildfire losses.
Some homeowners who lost property during the Eaton and Palisades fires argue that well-maintained landscaping can actually help protect homes, reduce erosion, and support wildlife—contrary to what state regulators suggest.
Supporters vs. Critics
Supporters of the rule claim the five-foot clearance zone could help reduce the risk of homes igniting during wildfires. However, critics say the policy ignores common-sense fire mitigation strategies, such as improved forest management, clearing overgrown wildlands, and strengthening infrastructure.
Many conservatives argue the regulation represents government overreach, placing the burden on homeowners instead of addressing systemic failures at the state level.
What Happens Next?
The Board of Forestry says it plans to complete the long-delayed regulations next year.
“We’ve received a wide range of responses, including criticism, feedback, and support,” executive director Tony Andersen said.
If the plan moves forward in its current form, the Zone Zero requirement would not be implemented until 2029, and state officials say the schedule remains subject to revision.
For now, millions of Californians—especially older homeowners living on fixed incomes—are left waiting, uncertain whether Sacramento will soon dictate what they can plant in their own backyards.
