DEFENSIBLE SPACE
AND WHY IT MATTERS
Mammoth Lakes is located in the heart of the Inyo National Forest, a region which is subject to extended periods of no precipitation, low humidity and high winds. The area surrounding the town is densely forested, with high concentrations of trees, thick brush and steep slopes, all of which can contribute to the rapid spread of wildfire. Mammoth Lakes also has a significant amount of Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI), which is an area where development and structures are directly adjacent to or intermingle with wildland vegetation, creating an increased risk for fire. The best possible mitigation measure in any WUI zone involves establishing and maintaining defensible space. Defensible space is the buffer you create between any structure, and the trees, shrubs, grass, and plants that surround it. To assist residents with defensible space, MLFD offers free property inspections, as well as a free chipping program throughout the summer months.
Please call (760) 934-2300 to inquire about defensible space resources or to schedule these services.
What Right Looks Like
Horizontal Tree Spacing & Fuel Reduction
Dead & Dying Tree Removal
Horizontal Tree Spacing & Fuel Reduction
Tree Limbing
Tree Limbing & Thining
Sign Up For Our Community Chipping Program
INSPECTIONS
Any property owner may request a defensible space inspection, as long as the property is located within District boundaries. MLFD will also conduct general neighborhood inspections as scheduling permits. Once an inspection has been completed, the property owner will be provided with a written report that either verifies compliance with defensible space requirements, or specifies conditions that will need to be addressed within 30 days. Properties with areas to improve will be reinspected after 30 days. Continued violations may result in citation.
Why Embers Cause the Most Damage in Wildfires
Embers are as hot as the fire from which they originate, and are light enough to be carried by the wind for long distances. They are also the primary reason that homes and properties ignite when there is a wildfire nearby.
DUTY. HONOR. COMMITMENT.
THE IMPORTANCE OF
DEFENSIBLE SPACE
Defensible space is essential to improve your home's chance of surviving a wildfire. It's the buffer you create between a building on your property, and the grass, trees, shrubs, and wildland vegetation that surround it. This space is needed to slow or stop the spread of wildfire and it protects your home from catching fire either from direct flame contact or radiant heat. Defensible space is also important for the protection of the firefighters defending your home.
WOODPILE AND TARP INFORMATION
Fire-resistant tarps or covers are required on woodpiles from June 1st to September 30th of each year if 30 feet or more of clearance from a structure cannot be obtained. Tarps must prevent embers from getting in or around woodpiles and they must be properly secured. The California State Fire Marshal seal must be permanently attached to the tarp material. As an alternative, up to three sides of the woodpile may have a 1/16 inch metal screen, distanced at least one inch away from the firewood. The screen must be firmly attached to the deck rail or other permanent structure. Screens and tarps must completely cover and surround the woodpile. A wood box that completely surrounds the wood is also an acceptable means of compliance.
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