0-5 Ft Defensible Space Cost-Share Program

To complement home hardening and landscape-scale mitigation efforts, HWMO proposes to implement a 0-to-5-Foot Defensible Space Cost-Share Program to help residents reduce ignition risks in the critical area immediately surrounding their homes. Participating homeowners will receive a home wildfire assessment conducted by HWMO, and eligible improvements must address hazards identified within the first five feet of structures. Cost-shared actions may include removing combustible vegetation and materials, replacing wood mulch with noncombustible ground cover, limbing or removing tree branches within 5 feet of structures, and spacing vegetation to reduce radiant heat exposure. The program will provide financial assistance (50% cost share, waived for low-income households), technical guidance, and access to vetted local vendors, helping residents create safer home ignition zones and strengthening community-wide wildfire resilience.