Local residents are encouraged to prepare for wildfires and maintain a minimum of 100 feet of Defensible Space around their properties.
Mendocino County, CA – In response to escalating fire danger in the region, The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) Mendocino Unit has announced a suspension of residential outdoor burn permits. The suspension, effective from 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, July 1, 2023, applies to all outdoor burning of landscape debris such as branches and leaves within Mendocino County’s State Responsibility Area.
Despite another wet winter and an above-average snowpack, warming temperatures and winds are rapidly drying out the annual grass crop. This, along with a high volume of dead grass and increasingly drier conditions, has amplified the risk of wildfires, prompting the preventive measure.
While the ban restricts homeowners from outdoor burning of landscape debris, CAL FIRE is urging residents to utilize this time to ensure they are prepared for potential wildfires. Key preparedness steps include maintaining a minimum of 100 feet of Defensible Space around every home and building on their property, and being ready to evacuate if necessary.
To further assist homeowners in preparing their properties, CAL FIRE provides several tips:
- Clear all dead or dying vegetation 100 feet from around all structures.
- Landscape with fire-resistant plants and non-flammable ground cover.
- Find alternative ways to dispose of landscape debris, such as chipping it or hauling it to a biomass energy or green waste facility.
The burn permit suspension does not apply to campfires within organized campgrounds or on private property, provided they are maintained to prevent spreading to wildland. Campfire permits can be obtained at local fire stations or online at PreventWildfireCA.org.
For more information on creating Defensible Space, preparing for wildfires, and tips to prevent wildfires, visit www.ReadyForWildfire.org.
