Vegetation & defensible space

Remove dead grass, weeds, leaves, branches and other dead vegetation. Cut or maintain annual grasses by the date and height required by the local authority. Separate or thin dense shrubs where appropriate to interrupt continuous fuel. Remove ladder fuels that connect ground vegetation to shrubs or tree canopies. Remove dead material from inside shrubs and beneath trees. Keep vegetation from creating a direct fuel path to structures, decks, fences or outbuildings.

Access & property conditions

Check driveway, roadway and gate clearance against local emergency-access requirements. Make address numbers visible from the approach. Identify overhead lines, propane tanks, utilities, septic systems and irrigation before work begins. Keep cut vegetation, mulch and debris managed according to local requirements. Photograph key areas before and after seasonal maintenance.

Home hardening

Clear leaves and debris from roofs, gutters, decks and the base of exterior walls. Inspect vents, eaves, roof edges and openings for ember vulnerabilities. Move combustible outdoor items away from structures during high fire danger. Inspect fences, decks and attachments that could provide a flame path to the building. Maintain irrigation and fire-resistant landscaping without allowing dead material to accumulate.

Emergency preparation

Register for local emergency alerts. Maintain a family evacuation plan and two possible routes. Prepare medications, important documents and essential supplies. Include pets, livestock and transportation needs in the evacuation plan. Review the plan before peak fire season and during Red Flag conditions.

Important: This checklist is educational and does not replace an inspection, written notice, local ordinance or agency direction. Property requirements vary.

Wildfire readiness checklist.

Vegetation & defensible space

Access & property conditions

Home hardening

Emergency preparation

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