Defensible Space
The latest updates and requirements
From the House Out
Today’s fire experts are clear: The most effective and efficient way to protect lives and property is from “the house out” rather than from the wildlands in. This means addressing the potential flammability of homes, around homes, and communities first. Following the 2018 Camp Fire, retiring Cal Fire Chief Ken Pimlott urged California’s leaders to “raise the bar” on what we’re doing to protect communities and life at the wildland urban interface. His suggestions and others’ range from building code updates and high tech wildfire warning systems to stricter requirements for approving new developments in known high fire risk areas. Today’s recommendations for fire-prone communities are rapidly evolving, so get to know your know local fire safe council and check this page often for update.
Defensible Space Guidelines and Information
Defensible space can help reduce fire danger around your home by addressing three primary areas:
- Layout – Space between plants and other fuel
- Plants – High moisture / low flammability / low fire energy release plants
- Maintenance – A well-kept and monitored property
Zone by zone requirement specifications
Please visit the following resources for the latest requirements.
Do you live in a State Responsibility Area?
State Responsibility Areas (SRA) are recognized by the Board of Forestry and Fire Protection as areas where Cal Fire is the primary emergency response agency responsible for fire suppression and prevention. Look here to see if you live in a SRA.
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