Fire-Safe Landscaping and Defensible Space Basics

In wildfire-prone regions, landscaping is part of home defense. Defensible space means managing vegetation so flames and embers have less continuous fuel near structures. That does not require a barren lot — it requires zones, maintenance, and plant choices with lower fire risk traits.

Keep gutters and roofs clear, avoid flammable mulch piled against siding, and maintain space between tree canopies and the house. Irrigated, well-spaced plantings generally behave better than overgrown, drought-stressed thickets.

Always follow local fire authority guidelines. A landscape professional familiar with your area can redesign beds for beauty and safer spacing without guessing.