If you’re considering a roof replacement in Los Angeles, you may be wondering if wood shake roofs are still an option. While these classic wooden shingles were once a popular roofing choice, California building codes now prohibit wood shake roofing due to its high fire risk.
In Los Angeles, restrictions are even stricter, requiring homeowners to use fire-resistant materials that meet state and local regulations.
At Best Roofing, we ensure that every roof repair in Los Angeles, reroofing project, and new roof installation meets all California safety codes while enhancing the durability and efficiency of your home.
Are Wood Shake Roofs Banned in Los Angeles?
Yes. According to the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS), wood shake and wood shingle roofs are prohibited for:
- New construction
- Roof replacements
- Major repairs (over 50% of the roof in a year)
Can You Repair an Existing Wood Shake Roof?
If you live in Los Angeles and own a home with an older wood shake roof, you might be wondering if repairs are still an option. While full replacements are not allowed due to fire regulations, minor repairs—up to 5% of the roof area—may be permitted under a Request for Modification of Building Ordinance.
However, these repairs must use Class B wood shingles and require approval from the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS). Before making any fixes, it’s essential to consult Best Roofing, a trusted Los Angeles roofer, to ensure compliance with local fire codes and safety standards.
Why Are Wood Shake Roofs Prohibited?
Wood shake roofs have historically contributed to the rapid spread of wildfires in California. During the 1991 East Bay Hills Fire in Oakland, the presence of wood-shingle roofs was a significant factor in the fire’s devastation, which resulted in 25 fatalities and the destruction of over 3,000 structures and caused $2.99 billion (2024) in damages.
Similarly, the 1961 Bel Air-Brentwood wildfire in Los Angeles was exacerbated by the prevalence of combustible wood shake roofs, leading to the loss of 484 homes. These incidents underscore the heightened fire risks associated with wood shake roofing materials, particularly in regions prone to wildfires.
To ensure your home is protected against California’s growing wildfire risks, it’s essential to work with a roofing company that prioritizes safety and compliance. At Best Roofing, we offer fire-resistant roofing solutions that meet modern safety codes, keeping your home secure and up to code.
Our team is licensed, bonded, and insured, ensuring that every installation or replacement is completed professionally and in full compliance with California regulations. At Best Roofing, we don’t just upgrade your roof—we upgrade your home’s safety and long-term value. If you’re ready for a safer, more durable alternative to outdated, flammable materials, get in touch with us for a free consultation and discover the best fire-resistant roofing options for your property.
California Building Code Requirements
To ensure fire resistance, all roofing materials must pass:
- Intermittent Flame Test
- Spread of Flame Test
- Weathering Test
Los Angeles Roofing Code (LADBS) Restrictions
- All wood shake and wood shingle roofs are banned for reroofing or repairs exceeding 50% of the roof.
- According to the 2022 California Residential Code, fire-retardant-treated shingles must be impregnated with fire-retardant chemicals to qualify for Class A, B, or C fire ratings. However, in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, additional restrictions may apply. If more than 50% of the roof is replaced in one year, the entire roof must be upgraded to a Class A, B, or C fire-resistant material.
- Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones require Class A roofing materials for maximum protection.
- Buildings in Fire District No. 1 must meet Class A or B standards.
Best Alternatives to Wood Shake Roofs in Los Angeles
If you love the look of wood shake roofing but need a legal, fire-resistant option, several alternatives provide the same aesthetic without the risk.
Best Roofing ensures that every roofing installation in Los Angeles meets California’s strict fire codes, providing safe and compliant solutions for homeowners. We offer:
- Fire-Resistant Synthetic Shake Roofing: Best Roofing offers modern synthetic shake shingles that mimic the look of traditional wood while meeting Class A fire ratings. These durable, lightweight, and energy-efficient options allow homeowners to achieve a rustic wood appearance without compromising on safety.
- Asphalt Shingles: As one of the most affordable and versatile roofing materials, asphalt shingles are a great alternative to wood shake roofing. In many cases, Best Roofing can install fire-resistant asphalt shingles over existing wood shingles, ensuring compliance with California fire regulations.
- Metal Roofing in Los Angeles: Metal roofing is a long-lasting, fire-resistant solution that enhances energy efficiency and modern aesthetics. Available in styles that resemble traditional wood shake, Best Roofing installs high-quality metal roofs that offer superior durability and low maintenance for Los Angeles homeowners.
- Tile Roofing: For a classic, elegant, and fire-resistant option, tile roofing is an excellent choice. Clay and concrete tiles are naturally Class A fire-rated, making them one of the safest roofing materials for homes in fire-prone areas like Los Angeles. Best Roofing specializes in expert tile roof installation -as well as other different types of roofs-, ensuring long-term durability and compliance with California safety standards.
Not sure which fire-resistant roofing option is best for your home?
Best Roofing provides expert consultations, installations, and maintenance services to help you choose the safest, most durable roof for your property. Contact us today for a free consultation!
Do You Need a Permit to Replace a Wood Shake Roof?
Wondering if you need a permit to reroof your house in Los Angeles? The answer is yes. If your home currently has a wood shake roof, you must obtain a permit from the LADBS before replacing it.
The new roofing must comply with California’s fire safety standards and meet Los Angeles building codes. The process can seem complicated, but Best Roofing handles permitting, inspections, and installation to ensure a seamless, stress-free upgrade.
Permit Requirements for Reroofing in Los Angeles
- A permit is required when replacing sheathing or repairing more than 32 sq. ft. of decking.
- The new roofing must be Class A, B, or C fire-resistant material.
- Two inspections are required: Roof Sheathing Inspection and Final Inspection.
- New roof installations must have proper flashing, ventilation, and debris removal before approval.
If you’re unsure about the permitting process, Best Roofing can handle all the paperwork and ensure your project meets all legal requirements.
Los Angeles Roofing Companies That Understand the Law
Replacing a wood shake roof requires expert knowledge of Los Angeles roofing laws and California fire codes. Working with an experienced roofing company in Los Angeles ensures that your new roof is safe, durable, and fully compliant.
At Best Roofing, we specialize in:
- Roof replacement in Los Angeles with Class A, B, or C fire-resistant materials.
- Roof repair in Los Angeles to upgrade old wood shake shingles to safer alternatives.
- Reroofing projects that follow all California fire safety codes.
- New roof installation using asphalt, metal, and tile roofing for long-term protection.
Upgrade to a Fire-Resistant Roof Today!
If you have an old wood shake roof or need a fire-resistant upgrade, Best Roofing is here to help. Our team of licensed roofers in Los Angeles ensures your home is safe, compliant, and built to last.
We are Licensed, Bonded, & Insured #1118184. Call Now: (818) 284-4264
Serving: Los Angeles, Van Nuys, Thousand Oaks, Tarzana, and surrounding areas.
