Homeowners in fire-prone areas in California may need to adjust their landscaping practices if the state enacts new fire safety regulations, according to The Press Democrat.
State lawmakers have directed the Board of Forestry and Fire Protection to create rules that ban flammable materials like woody plants and mulch within five feet of homes and structures.
Experts believe the last few feet around a building are crucial for protection against flying embers.
A buffer zone, in conjunction with other fireproofing measures, can determine whether a home survives a wildfire.
The new policy is particularly relevant as 2024 is expected to be one of the most dangerous fire seasons in recent years, exacerbated by a wet winter that spurred plant growth followed by summer heat waves that dried the vegetation.
The Park Fire has burned nearly 400,000 acres north of Chico and threatens Lassen Volcanic National Park.
Smaller fires have also occurred in Mendocino, Lake, and Colusa counties recently.
A fire near Healdsburg was quickly contained by firefighters, showcasing the high fire risk in regions like Sonoma and Napa counties, which have a history of severe wildfires.
Fire-safe landscaping not only helps protect homes but can also prevent fires from spreading to neighboring properties.
Insurance companies may adjust premiums based on the fire risk and the measures taken to mitigate it.
However, immediate compliance with a state mandate may be challenging due to the costs and personal preferences for certain landscaping features.
A phased approach, applying rules to new construction first and giving homeowners time to comply, could improve adherence.
