FHSZ Designation
The City must adopt Fire Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ) Designations as recommended by the State Fire Marshal in accordance with state law. The City may increase designated areas or increase the fire hazard designations of properties, but may not reduce areas or decrease the designations. Once designated, property owners making major remodels and/or new construction of homes, must adhere to specific Residential and Building Code standards for construction and Fire Code standards for vegetation management. The City Council adopted the minimum State Fire Marshal recommendations in June 2025. This webpage is to assist homeowners to determine their FHSZ Designation and learn about the requirements associated with their designations.
What is my FHSZ Designation?
Building Code Requirements
Applicable Building Code Requirements can be found online:
Non-residential:
Residential:
Fire Code Requirements
Applicable Fire Code Requirements can be found online: Cupertino Fire Code.
Ready to apply for a Permit?
If your project is ready for submittal, please contact our Building Division staff by visiting the Building Permit Center during our weekly hours at 10300 Torre Avenue, call 408.777.3228 or email staff at permitcenter@cupertino.gov for assistance. We’re happy to help confirm if your permit application is complete and ready for review. For detailed instructions and requirements on how to apply for a building permit, please visit our website at cupertino.gov/building/permits.
Below are some websites that might be useful.
Look up property information: Property Information
Search past records: Agency Counter
Apply for minor residential permits | pay permit fees | check permit status | schedule for inspection: Online Portal