The first step to creating defensible space is to assess any current potential landscape hazards and the area that they cover. A general rule of thumb is to remove anything that will ignite easily within 10’ of the home. The 30’ outside of that should be lean, clean, and green. A 100’ diameter from your home should have dead vegetation over 1” thick and 2’ long removed. This will slow the fire down and help it cool. Be aware of that if your house is located on a slope, those distances will increase.

Please note that the creation of survivable space does not mean living in an area devoid of trees and shrubs. Instead, it is achieved by removing dead vegetation close to your home, thinning dense vegetation stands and utilizing plants that are more fire-resistant.

Remove dead vegetation that is laying on the ground as well as those that are upright. This includes needles, leaves and dead brush. Remove dead branches from trees to a height of 6-15 feet.

Reduce dense vegetation stands that are close to your home. This will maintain the aesthetics and privacy of your landscaping while reducing the fuel load.

Replace vegetation that is more prone to ignition.

Keep all vegetation well-watered and properly pruned.

Use non-combustible materials in landscaping as much as possible (mulch, rocks, concrete sidewalks, brick patios, asphalt.)