CA AB1516

Expands defensible space requirements around structures in fire hazard zones to include more intense fuel reductions between 5-30 feet from structures and an ember-resistant zone within 5 feet, with new regulations to be promulgated by January 1, 2023.

Requires local agencies and the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection to provide notice to residents about new defensible space requirements before imposing penalties for violations.

Establishes a statewide program allowing qualified entities (counties, fire safe councils, conservation corps, resource conservation districts, and others) to conduct defensible space and home hardening assessments, with training and certification through the department; program repeals January 1, 2025.

Authorizes the department to make local fire prevention grants available for defensible space assessment and inspection programs in very high fire hazard severity zones.

Requires the department to develop an online guidebook by July 1, 2021 identifying vegetation species safe to plant near electrical transmission and distribution lines, to be made available on utility websites.