Help for Homeowners with Defensible Space
MADERA COUNTY – Exciting news from the Eastern Madera County Fire Safe Council (EMCFSC) as they open applications for Defensible Space Assistance, chipping, and hazard tree removal, catering specifically to those in need. EMCFSC has allocated resources to aid residents facing financial constraints, tribal communities, the elderly, and others facing disadvantages. This initiative focuses on vulnerable populations in Eastern Madera County (EMC), guiding them in establishing defensible space according to regional code ordinances. The primary objective of this program is to bridge the gap for vulnerable groups in Eastern Madera County, offering zero-cost defensible space work in areas designated as high and very high-severity risk zones. Additionally, the program extends support for hazard tree removal and assists in crafting personalized wildfire risk mitigation strategies. Curious about eligibility? Don’t hesitate; act now before funds deplete. To determine qualification, residents are encouraged to complete an inquiry form on the EMCFSC website. The property must be situated in Eastern Madera County, specifically in a “high” or “very high” hazard severity risk zone as assessed by CAL FIRE. To assess the risk level of their properties, residents can refer to the Fire Hazard Severity Zones. Identification of potential projects will occur through direct communication between EMCFSC staff and applicants, referrals from CAL FIRE Defensible Space Inspectors, or recommendations from local resources/agents following a defensible space inspection. Homeowner eligibility will be determined through an application and on-site inspection process conducted by EMCFSC. Wondering about the next steps? Once a project qualifies, EMCFSC will conduct a site visit to formulate a treatment plan addressing hazards within the defensible space zone around habitable structures. The successful completion of each fuel treatment project will ensure 100 feet of defensible space, adhering to PRC 4291. For more detailed information, feel free to explore EMCFSC‘s website.