Learn more about Zone 0 in Berkeley

Who
we are

Zone0 Berkeley is a volunteer working group formed after the City rushed through the EMBER ordinance with little public voice. We believe wildfire safety must be science‑led and democratically enacted. Berkeley can safeguard lives and homes and keep the trees and gardens that naturally resist fire while the State develops its Zone 0 rules.

Write to the State Today!

Jul 21

Write to the state at publiccomments@bof.ca.gov

Why your voice matters

The Board of Forestry has already adjusted earlier drafts after receiving strong public feedback—proof that well‑reasoned letters can shape the final Zone 0 rules. Each additional comment signals how many residents are watching, so a higher “volume” of thoughtful opinions will carry real weight.

Letter template below:

(Pick 3‑5 numbered points that resonate with you, delete the rest, and add your own story.)

———————————————————

[Your Name]
[Street Address] • [City, State ZIP] • [Email]
[Date]

Board of Forestry & Fire Protection
Attn: Zone 0 Rulemaking
PO Box 944246 • Sacramento, CA 94244‑2460
Email: publiccomments@bof.ca.gov

Dear Chair and Board Members,

I am a [Berkeley / Alameda County / California] resident writing to comment on the proposed Zone 0 regulations under AB 3074. California’s wildfire policy works best when it pairs solid science with the lived experience of those on the front lines. Please consider the following:

  1. Meaningful public process – The current draft advanced with limited notice. Holding hillside workshops and publishing clear responses to community input would strengthen legitimacy.

  2. Science‑first vegetation guidance – Peer‑reviewed studies show well‑watered plants can slow embers better than bare soil; a blanket “no vegetation within 5 ft” ban ignores this evidence.

  3. Ignition vs. fuel – Regulations should also tackle aging powerlines and unmanaged parkland, the spark points for many East Bay fires.

  4. Environmental review – Large‑scale tree removal raises heat‑island and erosion risks; a CEQA‑level study is warranted.

  5. Equity & cost – Vegetation removal can cost $1 000–$30 000. Seniors and fixed‑income families need phased timelines or financial aid.

  6. Parcel diversity – The 5‑ft rule fits large lots but is unworkable on Berkeley’s narrow, sloped properties.

  7. Align with local ordinances – Consistency with city rules like EMBER will prevent conflicting mandates.

  8. Education + phased rollout – Coupling delayed enforcement with statewide outreach will boost compliance and safety.

[Optional 1–2‑sentence personal story about your property, neighborhood, or fire experience.]

I appreciate the Board’s openness to community feedback and urge you to refine the draft Zone 0 rules with the points above before final adoption.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Typed Name]