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State statute

Napa — Real Estate Inspections (AB 38)

California foreclosure, tax-defaulted, court-ordered and probate-sale law and official procedures — verbatim and citable.

Edition
2026-09-26
Last updated
2026-10-05
Jurisdiction
Napa County

Napa — /3833/Real-Estate-Inspections-AB-38

Source: https://www.napacounty.gov/3833/Real-Estate-Inspections-AB-38

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Real Estate Inspections (AB 38)

Real Estate Inspections (AB 38)

Request a Defensible Space Inspection

Effective July 1, 2021, when you sell a property that is located in Napa County and is in a high or very high fire hazard severity zone (Fire Hazard Severity Zone Viewer) you will need documentation of a compliant Defensible Space Inspection that complies with Napa County Municipal Code 8.36 (Defensible Space Guidelines - Updated in 2021).

Who should request a Defensible Space Inspection?

The seller of the property or the seller’s real estate agent can request a Defensible Space Inspection.

What happens after I submit the request?

A Fire Inspector will call the seller or the real estate agent to schedule an inspection.

When should I submit the request?

A copy of the completed inspection report that shows proof the property has been inspected, and has passed that inspection, within six months prior to entering into a sales contract is required.

What happens if the property does not pass the inspection?

If the property does not pass the inspection, a Notice to Abate Fire Hazard detailing the corrections required will be issued. All corrections will be required to be mitigated within 14 calendar days after the issuance of the notice. If the property changes ownership before the 14 days, the seller and the buyer shall enter into an agreement pursuant to which the buyer agrees to obtain documentation of compliance within 14 days after closing escrow.

Is there a cost associated with the inspection?

There is no cost for the inspection.

How do I submit an inspection request?

To submit a Real Estate Inspection (AB38) request, please provide in an email the following information:

Your full name

Your phone number

Your property address (the site that you want inspected)

Staff will contact you within 72 hours to schedule.

Contact Us

Fire Marshal's Office

Email the Fire Marshal's Office

Physical Address

951 California Blvd

Napa, CA 94559

Phone: 707-299-1464

Additional Phone Numbers:

Tents/Events: 707-299-1464

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