Defensible space help for Calaveras & Amador homeowners

• Use hardscape (gravel, pavers, concrete) — avoid combustible bark/mulch
• Clear dead plants, leaves, needles from roof, gutters, deck, stairs, and under the home
• Keep branches at least 10 feet from chimney / stovepipe outlets
• Limit combustible furniture and planters on decks
• Move firewood and lumber out of this zone (into Zone 2)
• Prefer noncombustible fencing/gates where they attach to the home
• Consider relocating trash bins, RVs, and other combustibles outside this zone

Zone 0 is the highest-priority ember zone. Statewide implementing regulations continue to evolve under AB 3074 / PRC 4291 — follow CAL FIRE’s current Zone 0 guidance and any local rules.

• Remove dead plants, grass, and weeds
• Remove dead or dry leaves and pine needles from the yard
• Trim trees so branches stay a minimum of ~10 feet from other trees
• Create separation between trees, shrubs, and items that could catch fire (furniture, wood piles, play sets)
• Clear flammable vegetation and storage from under decks and stairs

More intense fuel reduction closer to the structure is expected under PRC 4291.

• Cut or mow annual grass to a maximum of 4 inches
• Create horizontal space between shrubs and trees
• Create vertical space between grass, shrubs, and tree canopies
• Remove fallen leaves, needles, twigs, bark, cones, and small branches (shallow litter may be allowed up to ~3 inches where permitted)
• Keep 10 feet of clearance to bare mineral soil around exposed wood piles
• Clear 10 feet around outbuildings and propane tanks, plus an additional low-fuel buffer

100 feet of defensible space (or to the property line) is required by PRC 4291 in State Responsibility Areas.