Southern Oregon Wildfire Prevention: Protect Your Family, Home and Community.

What Is Defensible Space?

Defensible space is the area around your home where vegetation and combustible materials are managed to slow or stop the spread of wildfire. It also provides firefighters with a safer area to defend your property if needed.

1. Maintain Proper Clearance.

Vegetation and trees should be:

• At least 10 feet away from structures and powerlines

• Properly spaced from other trees to reduce fire spread

2. Remove Ladder Fuels.

“Ladder fuels” include low branches, brush, and debris that allow fire to climb from the ground into trees and structures.

• Trees over 18 feet tall → remove branches up to 6 feet from the ground

• Trees under 18 feet → remove up to 1/3 of the tree height

3. Keep Your Home Exterior Clear.

• Clean roofs and gutters regularly

• Remove leaves, pine needles, and debris from around the home

• Maintain siding, skirting, and vents in good condition

4. Manage Combustible Materials.

• Store firewood and lumber at least 30 feet from structures

• Keep vegetation 10 feet away from propane tanks

• Maintain grass at less than 4 inches in height

Why This Matters in Southern Oregon

Areas like Jackson County and Josephine County experience dry summers and wildfire-prone conditions. Homes without proper defensible space are at significantly higher risk during fire events.

How a Home Inspection Can Help

During a home inspection, I often identify conditions that can contribute to wildfire risk, including:

• Overgrown vegetation near structures

• Improper tree spacing or lack of limbing

• Debris accumulation on roofs and around foundations

• Combustible materials stored too close to the home

At Bauer Home Inspections, my goal is to provide you with clear, practical insights so you can make informed decisions about protecting your home.

Defensible space is a very impactful step you can take as a homeowner, especially in a wildfire prone area like ours. With a little planning and regular maintenance, you can significantly improve the safety of your family, your home and your community.