Wildfires: Understanding Defensible Space and How to Create It

The Importance of Defensible Space

The term “defensible space” has been noted by firefighters as a crucial part of protecting homes and businesses from the January Los Angeles County wildfires. But what does it mean?

According to Cal Fire, “Defensible space is the buffer between your structure and the surrounding area.”

What is Defensible Space?

The space acts as a barrier to stall the progress of a fire near a property and help ensure the safety of firefighters defending your home.

“Defensible space is the first line of defense for your home against wildfire”, Cal Fire states.

Creating Defensible Space

Defensible space is categorized into three different zones:

• Zone 0: 0-5 feet from structures:
  • Use hardscape like gravel, pavers, or concrete. No combustible bark or mulch.
  • Remove all dead and dying plants, weeds, and debris (leaves, needles, etc.) from your roof, gutter, deck, porch, stairways, and under any areas of your home.
  • Remove all branches within 10 feet of any chimney or stovepipe outlet.
  • Limit combustible items (like outdoor furniture and planters) on top of decks.
  • Relocate firewood and lumber to Zone 2.
  • Replace combustible fencing, gates, and arbors attached to the home with noncombustible alternatives.
  • Consider relocating garbage and recycling containers outside this zone.
  • Consider relocating boats, RVs, vehicles, and other combustible items outside this zone.
• Zone 1: 5-30 feet from structures:
  • Remove all dead plants, grass, and weeds.
  • Remove dead or dry leaves and pine needles.
  • Trim trees regularly to keep branches a minimum of 10 feet from other trees.
  • Create a separation between trees, shrubs, and items that could catch fire, such as patio furniture, wood piles, swing sets, etc.
• Zone 2: 30-100 feet from structures:
  • Cut or mow annual grass down to a maximum height of four inches.
  • Create horizontal space between shrubs and trees.
  • Create vertical space between grass, shrubs, and trees.
  • Remove fallen leaves, needles, twigs, bark, cones, and small branches. However, they may be permitted to a depth of three inches.
  • Keep 10 feet of clearance around exposed wood piles, down to bare mineral soil, in all directions.
  • Clear areas around outbuildings and propane tanks. Keep 10 feet of clearance to bare mineral soil and no flammable vegetation for an additional 10 feet around their exterior.

Request a Defensive Safe Inspection

Homeowners can request a defensive safe inspection here from local fire officials.

Conclusion

Creating defensible space is a crucial step in protecting your home and property from wildfires. By following the guidelines outlined above, you can help ensure the safety of your property and the people who live there.

FAQs

What is defensible space?

Defensible space is the buffer between your structure and the surrounding area.

What is the purpose of defensible space?

Defensible space acts as a barrier to stall the progress of a fire near a property and help ensure the safety of firefighters defending your home.

How do I create defensible space?

You can create defensible space by removing flammable materials, trimming trees and shrubs, and keeping a safe distance from combustible materials.

Why is 100 feet the limit for defensible space?

The 100-foot limit is the law under public resources code 4291.

Can I request a defensive safe inspection?

Yes, homeowners can request a defensive safe inspection from local fire officials.