How to Defensible Space Clearing

Defensible space is the buffer zone you create between your home and the wild vegetation that fuels wildfires. This critical fire protection task focuses on Zone 1—the 30 feet immediately surrounding your home—where you'll remove dead plants, clear leaves and debris, relocate firewood piles, and ensure vegetation doesn't touch or overhang your house. Studies show homes with proper defensible space are 2-4 times more likely to survive a wildfire, as this buffer prevents flames from reaching your structure and reduces ember ignition risk.