DEFENSIBLE SPACE

It is your property and your responsibility. Your family, your neighbors and community are counting on you to do your part.

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Much has been written about Defensible Space and it is good stuff! These regulations are to protect your home and property while providing a safe area for firefighters. Defensible space does not mean a yard devoid of plants and trees. However, ongoing maintenance, diligence and care is a must when living in a fire prone community. San Diego County has recently increased the size of zone 1 from 30 feet to 50 feet. The Rancho Santa Fe Fire Protection District has also has specific requirements.

QUESTIONS

Both the Fire Safe Council and the Rancho Santa Fe Fire Protection District have programs to educate and assist homeowners with defensible space questions and issues. See the SAFER Award page or the Rancho Santa Fe Fire Protection District weed abatement here

Here are the basics:

Zone 0 – Ember-Resistant Zone

Zone 0 extends 5 feet from buildings, structures, decks, etc. that is cleaned of all combustible materials. No wood mulch, dead plants, firewood, etc.

Zone 1 – Lean, Clean and Green Zone

Zone 1 extends 50 feet from buildings, structures, decks, etc. Trim all trees 10 feet from home, structures and each other, no dead plants, etc. Mulch can be used if less than 4-6 inches in dept.

Zone 2 – Reduced Fuel Zone

Zone 2 extends from 50 feet to 100 feet out from buildings, structures, decks, etc. Cut annual grasses to 4 inches or less, create both vertical and horizonal spacing between trees, remove all dead vegetation.

IMPORTANT TIPS

  • All driveways and roadways must have all combustible vegetation removed within 10 feet along both sides and have 13-foot 6-inch vertical clearance.

  • Remove all items that would easily ignite such as trash or shrubs and trees within 10 feet of propane tanks.

  • Stack firewood 30 feet away from structures.

  • Display address at a location plainly visible to emergency vehicles on the street or roadway fronting your property.

  • Clean all needles and leaves from roofs and gutters.