General Questions
Why did I receive this notice?
The City of Anaheim is required to inspect your property as part of its ongoing annual Wildland Urban Interface area brush clearance and defensible space requirements. Your property has been identified as being in a Very High or High Hazard Severity Zone in Anaheim. All properties in these zones are subject to a Defensible Space Inspection per City of Anaheim Municipal Code, Title 16, Chapter 16.40. To avoid an inspection fee, please complete the Wildfire Defensible Space Self-Inspection.
Why am I receiving this notice now?
You may be receiving this notice for one of the following reasons:
- Your property was newly identified or added to the Fire Hazard Severity Zone map based on updated state or local fire hazard mapping.
- Anaheim Fire & Rescue is expanding its ongoing notification and enforcement efforts related to Wildfire Defensible Space requirements.
This effort is intended to help reduce wildfire risk and improve community resilience in response to recent wildfires throughout California.
If you have questions about which reason applies to your property, please contact the Wildland Inspector at (714) 765-4000 or wildlandinspector@anaheim.net.
What if I answer “No” to any of these questions?
If your answer to any of these questions is “No,” we ask that you correct these items within the next 30 days before submitting your questionnaire. Alternatively, you may correct the items and resubmit the questionnaire with a “Yes” answer within 30 days.
If you need additional time to complete the required work, you may request an extension by contacting (714) 765-4000 or wildlandinspector@anaheim.net.
What is defensible space and why does it matter?
Defensible space is the buffer of cleared vegetation around your home that slows the spread of wildfire and gives firefighters room to work. It is one of the most effective ways to protect your home and community.
Do I have to do anything, or is this optional?
Completing the online self-inspection is required. If you do not submit the questionnaire within 30 days of the mailer date, your property may be subject to a $136 in-person inspection fee.
How to Complete the Self-Inspection
How do I complete the self-inspection?
Visit www.anaheim.net/5629/Preparing-for-Wildfire or scan the QR code on your mailer. The form is digital-only; paper forms are not accepted in 2026.
I don’t have internet access. Can I mail or hand in a paper form?
No. Starting in 2026, submissions are digital only. Handwritten or mailed copies are no longer accepted. Anaheim Fire & Rescue staff can assist with filling out the questionnaire for you.
The QR code didn’t work. What should I do?
Anaheim Fire & Rescue staff can assist by filling out the questionnaire for you.
Deadlines & Fees
How long do I have to complete the form?
You have 30 days from the date printed on your mailer to submit your self-inspection online.
What happens if I miss the 30-day deadline?
Your property may be scheduled for an in-person inspection by a Wildland Inspector, and you may be billed a $136 inspection fee.
However, please proceed to complete the questionnaire even if you are past the due date, as you will only be billed if the in-person inspection is conducted.
I already completed my inspection last year. Do I need to do it again?
Yes. Self-inspection is required annually. Each year’s mailer initiates a new submission cycle.
HOA & Rental Properties
My property is managed by an HOA. What do I do?
If your HOA is responsible for coordinating defensible space clearance on your property or a portion of your property, please contact them directly.
However, if the parcel is directly owned by you, you are still required to complete the questionnaire.
Am I responsible for HOA-owned areas next to my property?
No. You are only responsible for your legal parcel or property. All common areas or parcels owned or maintained by the HOA remain the responsibility of the HOA.
I’m a renter or tenant. Is this my responsibility?
The mailer is addressed to the property owner of record. Renters should notify their landlord or property manager immediately so they can complete the required submission.
Property & Address Issues
The address on the mailer is wrong, or I no longer own this property.
Contact the Wildland Inspector at (714) 765-4000 or wildlandinspector@anaheim.net to update ownership or address records.
My property is vacant land or under construction. Do I still need to complete this?
Yes. All properties in the designated fire hazard zones must complete the process regardless of current use.
Call (714) 765-4000 for guidance specific to your situation.
Home Assessment & Further Help
Can someone come out and help me figure out what I need to clear?
Yes. You can request a free Wildfire Home Assessment through the link on the Preparing for Wildfire webpage or by calling (714) 765-4000.
Who do I contact if I have more questions?
Contact the Wildland Inspector at (714) 765-4000 or wildlandinspector@anaheim.net.
The Preparing for Wildfire page also contains additional resources and self-inspection links.