The new California Safe Homes Act (AB 888) was enacted last month, and it could mean tax-free grant money to harden your home against wildfires.
– Tax-free grants for roof upgrades, ember-resistant vents & defensible space.
- Aimed at homeowners in high or very high fire-risk zones.
- Helps protect your home and keep insurance coverage affordable.
Here’s the deal:
• AB 888 establishes a statewide grant program through the California Department of Insurance that helps eligible homeowners and local governments fund home-hardening projects focused on wildfire mitigation. 
• Qualifying projects include replacing or upgrading to fire-resistant roofs and creating a non-combustible buffer (the “first 5 feet” around the home) to reduce wildfire risk. 
• Eligible homeowners are those whose property is insured with an admitted carrier (or the FAIR Plan), located in a ZIP code that overlaps a “high” or “very high” fire hazard severity zone, and meet income eligibility requirements (for the individual grant portion). 
• The grant funds are designed to be tax-free for purposes of these mitigation hardening projects. 
• The goal is not only to improve individual homes, but also to boost community-wide resilience and help stabilize the insurance market in high-risk areas.
Therefore:
• Check whether your home is in a ZIP code designated as “high” or “very high” fire hazard severity.
• Verify your homeowner’s insurance carrier is admitted or you’re with the FAIR Plan.
• Explore the specifics of the grant program (eligibility, documentation, contractors, scope of work).
• If you plan to do a roof replacement or defensible-space work this year, consider timing it around this program to maximize grant potential.

Disclaimer: This content is provided for educational purposes only and is not legal, tax, accounting, or financial advice. Every situation is unique, so consult your own attorney, CPA, or financial advisor before making decisions based on this information.