Defensible Space: How to Protect Your Home From Wildfire

In wildfire country, many homes catch fire from wind blown embers that land in dry leaves, gutters or vents, sometimes long after the main fire front has passed. Defensible space and a few home upgrades make a big difference.

California law requires homes in many fire hazard areas to keep up to 100 feet of defensible space. Local rules vary, so check with your fire department or CAL FIRE.

Zone 0: the first 5 feet

This ember resistant zone is the most important, and rules for it are getting stricter in California.

• Use hard surfaces like gravel, pavers or concrete next to the house instead of bark mulch.
• Remove dead plants, leaves and needles.
• Move firewood, trash cans and wooden furniture away from walls.
• Avoid shrubs and plants directly against the house.

Zone 1: 5 to 30 feet

• Keep plants green, spaced out and well trimmed.
• Trim tree branches at least 10 feet away from the roof and chimney.
• Remove dead vegetation and keep grass short.

Zone 2: 30 to 100 feet

• Mow grass to about 4 inches.
• Space trees and shrubs so fire cannot jump from one to the next.
• Remove low branches so ground fire cannot climb into trees.

Harden the house itself

• Roof: a Class A fire rated roof is the biggest single upgrade.
• Vents: cover attic and crawl space vents with fine metal mesh or install ember resistant vents.
• Gutters: keep them clear; dry leaves in gutters are a common ignition point.
• Windows: dual pane tempered glass holds up better to heat.
• Decks and fences: fire can travel along a wood fence to the house. Use metal or masonry for the last few feet next to the home.

Make it a yearly routine

Before fire season, clear gutters, trim plants, remove dead growth and check vents. Many insurers now ask about defensible space and home hardening, and some offer discounts.

Frequently asked questions

Does defensible space guarantee my home will survive?

No, but it greatly improves the odds and gives firefighters a safer place to work.

Can I keep any plants near the house?

Low growing, well watered plants farther out are usually fine. Keep the first 5 feet as clear as possible.

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