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Data-Backed Comparison

Fire-Resistant Fence Comparison

A comprehensive guide to fire-aware fencing materials. Always confirm local requirements and product test documentation with your AHJ.

Wildfire risk influences how many homeowners think about property boundaries. Choosing the right fencing material is both an aesthetic and safety consideration.

This guide compares fire-resistant fencing materials using published test standards and documentation where available. Always confirm local requirements with your AHJ.

Data sources: Fire ratings based on ASTM E84 (Surface Burning Characteristics) and ASTM E136 (Non-Combustibility). ASTM E84 class ranges (FSI: A=0-25, B=26-75, C=76-200) per source. Local requirements vary by jurisdiction.

Material Comparison

Side-by-Side Analysis

Fire performance, documentation, and practical considerations

Material Fire Rating Zone 0 (near-structure) Maintenance Lifespan Cost Range
Aluminum
6063-T6 Alloy
 ASTM E136 (test standard) Review with AHJ
Minimal
By product
By quote
Steel
Powder Coated
 ASTM E136 (test standard) Review with AHJ
Low
By product
By quote
Composite
Wood-Plastic (WPC)
 ASTM E84 class (A/B/C) Test report required
Minimal
By product
By quote
Gabion Wall
Stone + Steel Mesh
 ASTM E136 (test standard) Review with AHJ
None
By product
By quote
CMU Block Wall
Concrete Masonry
 ASTM E136 (test standard) Review with AHJ
Minimal
By product
By quote
Ipé Hardwood
Brazilian Walnut
 ASTM E84 class (A/B/C) Check local AHJ
Moderate
By product
By quote
Artificial Hedge
Fire-Retardant PE
 ASTM E84 class (A/B/C) Documentation may be required
Minimal
By product
By quote
Wood (Cedar/Redwood)
Untreated
 ASTM E84 class (A/B/C) Review with AHJ
High
By product
By quote
Vinyl/PVC
Standard
 ASTM E84 class (A/B/C) Review with AHJ
Low
By product
By quote

Important: Zone 0 acceptance can depend on attachment method. Fencing attached directly to a structure has stricter requirements than freestanding fencing. Always verify with your local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) before installation.

Verified Standards

Standards Spotlight

Verifiable thresholds from ASTM E84 and California wildfire guidance to compare fire-resistant fencing materials.

ASTM E84 Class A
0-25 Flame Spread Index

ASTM E84 Class A range for surface burning characteristics testing.

Source: ASTM E84
ASTM E84 Class B
26-75 Flame Spread Index

ASTM E84 Class B range for surface burning characteristics testing.

Source: ASTM E84
ASTM E84 Class C
76-200 Flame Spread Index

ASTM E84 Class C range for surface burning characteristics testing.

Source: ASTM E84
CAL FIRE Zone 0
0-5 ft Near-Home Zone

CAL FIRE guidance defines Zone 0 as the 0-5 ft area next to the structure.

Source: Ready for Wildfire
California PRC 4291 Defensible Space
0-100 ft Defensible Space Zone

State law defines defensible space requirements for the 0-100 ft area around structures.

Source: PRC 4291

Class ratings apply to the specific tested assembly. Confirm manufacturer test reports for the exact product and configuration.

Understanding Fire Ratings

ASTM E84 Classifications

How materials are tested and rated for flame spread

NC

Non-Combustible

ASTM E136

Materials that do not ignite, burn, support combustion, or release flammable vapors when subjected to fire or heat. Tested per ASTM E136.

Flame Spread Index 0
Smoke Developed 0
Examples Aluminum, Steel, Stone
A

Class A

ASTM E84

Most restrictive rating for combustible materials. Indicates very low flame spread and smoke production. Often referenced in local requirements for near-structure areas. Confirm with your AHJ.

Flame Spread Index 0-25
Smoke Developed 0-450
Examples Ipé wood, FR Composite
B

Class B

ASTM E84

Moderate flame spread. Acceptance varies by jurisdiction; check local codes and project conditions.

Flame Spread Index 26-75
Smoke Developed 0-450
Examples Some vinyl, treated wood
C

Class C

ASTM E84

Higher flame spread. Acceptance varies by jurisdiction and may be limited in some zones. Some wood fencing products fall into this category.

Flame Spread Index 76-200
Smoke Developed 0-450
Examples Cedar, Redwood, Pine

California Defensible Space

Zone Requirements

Per California Public Resources Code Section 4291

0
Near structure
Ember-Resistant Zone
Non-combustible materials required. No combustible fencing, decking, or vegetation attached to structure.
1
5-30 feet
Lean, Clean, Green
Reduced fuel load. Material choices should be confirmed with local guidance. Limited vegetation height and spacing requirements may apply.
2
30-100 feet
Reduced Fuel Zone
Create horizontal and vertical spacing between vegetation. Remove dead plants and debris.
Local timelines vary by jurisdiction for existing properties

References

Data Sources

Official standards and regulations

ASTM International

ASTM E84-23

Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials. Defines Class A, B, and C flame spread ratings.

View on ASTM.org

ASTM International

ASTM E136-19

Standard Test Method for Assessing Combustibility of Materials Using a Vertical Tube Furnace at 750°C. Defines non-combustible classification.

View on ASTM.org

CAL FIRE

Fire Hazard Severity Zones

Official maps showing Very High, High, and Moderate Fire Hazard Severity Zones throughout California. Updated based on vegetation, topography, and fire history. CAL FIRE dataset notes SRA FHSZ effective Apr 1, 2024 and LRA recommendations from 2007-2011 (source).

View on CAL FIRE

NFPA

NFPA 701

Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Flame Propagation of Textiles and Films. Required certification for fire-retardant artificial hedges and fabrics.

View on NFPA.org

California Building Standards

Chapter 7A

Materials and construction methods for exterior wildfire exposure. Defines ignition-resistant construction standards for structures in fire zones.

View California Building Code

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