Branch clearance around the chimney outlet in Berkeley's very high fire hazard severity zone
Within Berkeley's locally designated Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, the City's WUI Code requires owners to remove all branches within 10 feet of any chimney or stovepipe outlet. The source is City of Berkeley Ordinance 7,991-N.S. (BMC Chapter 19.49), Council item 41, Dec 2, 2025.
The rule falls on the property owner, not on the person who inspects the chimney. If your home is inside that zone, any branch within 10 feet of the outlet has to go. The outlet is where smoke leaves the chimney or stovepipe, usually at the cap. Because the outlet sits up on the roof, it's easy to miss branches that have grown toward it since the last time anyone looked.
During the inspection we look at the chimney top: the cap, the crown and the outlet. While we're up there, we note any branches close to the outlet so you know what needs trimming. We don't trim trees, so arranging the trimming is up to you. If you aren't sure whether your property is in the zone, check with the City of Berkeley before you schedule trimming.
Before the inspection visit
- Confirm with the City whether your property is inside the locally designated Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone.
- From the ground, note any branches that reach toward the chimney or a stovepipe.
- Let us know if you have more than one chimney or a separate stovepipe outlet, so each one gets checked.
- Hold off on using the fireplace or stove until the visit if you've noticed smoke, odors or debris falling into the firebox.
Chimney inspection in brief
An inspection checks the parts of the system you can't easily see yourself. We look at the flue for creosote, blockages and nest material. We check the liner and the inside walls for cracks or gaps. On top, we check the crown, cap and flashing for damage that lets water in, and in the fireplace we check the firebox, damper and smoke chamber. We inspect gas fireplaces and gas appliances as well as wood-burning ones, on all major brands. You get a clear account of what we found and what, if anything, needs attention. The full scope is laid out on our chimney inspection service page.
When a closer look makes sense
A visual check covers most routine visits. A more detailed inspection, often called a Level 2 inspection, adds a camera run through the flue. It suits a home being bought or sold, a fireplace that hasn't been used in years, or a chimney after strong shaking or a storm. Cracks in the flue tiles or a crown that has shifted are often invisible from the firebox. If you're worried about chimney damage after an earthquake, a camera inspection is the way to find out.
When a different visit fits better
If you already know something is wrong, such as a leak around the chimney, loose or crumbling bricks, or a missing cap, you may be ready for chimney repair in Berkeley rather than another inspection. If you aren't sure which job you need, tell us what you're seeing. We'll suggest the visit that fits, and estimates are free.
Booking an inspection
To see what a visit involves step by step, read how chimney inspection works. Everything else we handle for homeowners in the city is listed on our Berkeley area page. To book, call or request an estimate.
Free estimates.
Get in touch to schedule a chimney inspection for your Berkeley home. We also inspect for property managers and commercial buildings.
Sources (1)
The sources of the Berkeley facts on this page.
- 1City of Berkeley - Ordinance 7,991-N.S. (BMC Chapter 19.49), Council item 41, Dec 2, 2025
