Hire a Firewise assessment for a professional defensible space plan

Request a free or low-cost wildfire risk assessment through your local fire department, Cal Fire, or an NFPA Firewise USA advisor. A trained assessor evaluates your specific property and creates a prioritized action plan based on your terrain, vegetation, and structure.

Why It Works

Defensible space requirements vary dramatically based on slope, prevailing winds, vegetation type, and local fire history. A cookie-cutter approach misses critical site-specific risks. Professional assessors identify vulnerabilities homeowners commonly overlook — like a neighbor's overgrown lot, vulnerable eave construction, or wind-channeling terrain features.

Tips

• Cal Fire offers free defensible space inspections in California — schedule in spring before fire season demand
• NFPA Firewise USA communities receive group assessments and may qualify for grants ($500-$2,000) for mitigation work
• Many counties offer cost-share programs covering 50-75% of vegetation management costs for qualifying properties
• Insurance companies increasingly require defensible space documentation — some offer 5-15% premium discounts
• The assessment typically takes 1-2 hours and covers the structure, landscaping, access roads, and water supply
• Ask about the Ready, Set, Go! program for a comprehensive wildfire preparedness plan beyond just defensible space