Your East County Defensible Space Maintenance Calendar

Wildfire season in East County seems to start earlier, last longer, and bring stronger winds each year. If you live near the wildland–urban interface, you want a clear plan that keeps your home prepared without turning your yard upside down. This guide gives you a simple monthly calendar for defensible space and home hardening, aligned with California standards and San Diego County practices. You will find what to do, when to do it, and where to find local help. Let’s dive in.

Defensible space basics in East County

California law requires you to maintain defensible space around your home. Under Public Resources Code §4291, most properties need up to 100 feet of fuel modification, or to the property line. Local fire agencies can set stricter rules, so always confirm any notices you receive.

It helps to think in three practical zones consistent with CAL FIRE defensible space guidance:

• Immediate zone, 0–5 feet: Keep this area noncombustible. Clear leaves, needles, and wood mulch away from the foundation. Do not store firewood or place combustible decor next to siding.
• Near zone, 5–30 feet: Keep plants lean, clean, and green. Irrigate, separate plantings, and remove ladder fuels. Where appropriate, raise tree canopies so lower limbs are 6–10 feet off the ground.
• Outer zone, 30–100 feet: Create separation between groups of plants and thin continuous brush. Remove dead material and fallen branches.

Embers cause most home losses in wildfires. Focus first on the 0–5 foot zone, your roof and gutters, and ember-resistant vents. For details on hardening upgrades, see CAL FIRE’s home hardening checklist.

Your month-by-month maintenance calendar

Use winter and early spring for heavier work so you are ready before peak fire weather. Maintain through summer, then reset in fall. Always check nesting and permit rules before large pruning or removals.

January: Plan and inspect

• Inspect your roof, gutters, chimney caps, vents, and siding. Repair gaps and clear debris.
• Map out hardening projects like ember-resistant vents and exterior repairs. Get bids and schedule work.
• Book a professional tree assessment for hazard trees that may need work later in winter.

Why now: Cooler weather is safe for crews and you can act before nesting season ramps up.

February: Finish major pruning where allowed

• Complete non-sensitive pruning and remove dead or hazardous trees where safe and permitted.
• Separate tree crowns and raise low limbs to reduce ladder fuels.
• Clear roof and gutters after winter storms.
• Test and repair irrigation so near-zone plants stay green this spring.

Note: Many birds nest February through August. To avoid violations, review California Department of Fish and Wildlife nesting guidance before major pruning or removal. Some native trees may require permits.

March: Spring clean and weed abatement prep

• Rake the 0–5 foot zone to noncombustible surfaces near foundations.
• Mow grasses before they cure. Remove seedheads where possible.
• Schedule chipping or green-waste hauling. Dispose through permitted programs only.

Why now: Fuels begin to dry and local weed-abatement inspections often start in spring.

April: Fuel reduction wrap-up

• Finish thinning in the 30–100 foot zone. Break up continuous brush and remove dead material.
• Verify you meet PRC 4291 expectations. If you live in an HOA, review any extra rules.
• Photograph completed work and keep receipts for your records.

Tip: Many counties issue notices in spring. Staying compliant avoids rush work and fines.

May: Pre-fire-season readiness

• Do a final clean of roofs, gutters, decks, and under-deck areas. Remove leaf litter.
• Move firewood and other combustibles well away from the home. Avoid storing under eaves or decks.
• Test hoses and review your evacuation plan. Keep a ladder accessible for roof access if safe to do so.

Why now: Warm, windy days arrive and ember exposure increases.

June–August: Active season upkeep

Do these monthly:

• Clear gutters and roof after wind events. Empty leaf piles and corners that trap debris.
• Mow grasses before they dry out. Keep near-zone plants irrigated and trimmed.
• Remove dead branches promptly and reduce dead plant matter.
• Replace combustible mulch within 5 feet of structures with rock or hardscape where possible.

Safety note: Avoid big pruning during extreme heat or active wildfires. Follow all evacuation orders.

September: Santa Ana wind vigilance

• Recheck canopy spacing. Remove ladder fuels where allowed. Clean gutters again.
• Keep the immediate zone clear of furniture, potted plants with dry soil, and refuse.
• Confirm evacuation routes and refresh go-kits. Back up important documents.

Why now: Santa Ana winds can drive fast-moving fires and heavy ember showers.

October: Post-summer reset

• Remove dead vegetation that accumulated over summer. Finish deferred hardening projects when conditions are safe.
• Inspect roofs, gutters, and siding for wind or heat damage.
• Prepare for possible fall inspections and winter rains. Check drainage away from the foundation.

November: Erosion and cleanup

• Dispose of green waste properly. Do not burn unless specifically permitted.
• Stabilize slopes and manage runoff paths to limit erosion and protect defensible areas.
• Arrange chipping or bulk pickup if needed.

December: Full inspection and plan ahead

• Inspect vents, soffits, crawlspace screens, and under-deck enclosures. Repair or upgrade as needed.
• Audit home-hardening needs and schedule contractor work for late winter or early spring.
• Update insurance photos and keep documents organized for quick access.

Year-round cautions

• Nesting season: Many species nest February through August. If major work is unavoidable, a pre-work nesting survey by a qualified biologist may be required. See CDFW’s nesting birds overview.
• Permits and protected trees: Some removals require permits. Check County Planning & Development Services before you cut.
• Burning restrictions: Open burning is often restricted. Use chipping or green-waste services and confirm rules with the Air Pollution Control District.

High-impact home hardening checklist

Start with the upgrades that most reduce ember risk and keep up with routine maintenance.

• Roof and attic: Maintain a Class A roof assembly where possible. Repair damaged shingles and keep the roof free of leaves and needles.
• Vents and openings: Install ember-resistant vents with fine mesh. Screen eaves, soffits, crawlspaces, and under-deck areas.
• Gutters and exterior: Use metal gutter guards and clean often in spring and fall. Remove combustibles stored under decks.
• Windows and doors: Consider dual-pane or tempered glass to reduce breakage from heat. Seal gaps around frames.
• Siding and 0–5 foot zone: Repair gaps in siding. Keep the first 5 feet noncombustible by using rock, pavers, or hardscape next to the structure.
• Landscaping practices: Choose irrigated, low-fuel plants in the 5–30 foot zone. Separate plant groups and remove ladder fuels.
• Documentation: Keep dated before and after photos, contractor invoices, and any inspection results.

For detailed step-by-step guidance, review CAL FIRE’s home hardening recommendations.

Insurance, compliance, and documentation

Insurers look closely at wildfire risk in California. Completing defensible space and hardening projects can improve your home’s survivability and may influence underwriting decisions. The California Department of Insurance provides consumer guidance on mitigation. Keep good records so you can show your progress.

Documentation best practices:

• Take clear, dated photos after each project. Geotag when possible.
• Save contractor invoices for tree work, roofing, vents, and other mitigation.
• Keep permits and any inspection reports in one place.

Some insurers and local programs offer voluntary inspections or grants. Ask your local fire agency or Fire Safe Council about current options.

Local San Diego County resources

• San Diego County fire programs and inspection info: Start with the San Diego County Fire Authority to find local contacts and prevention resources.
• Fire Safe Councils: Many communities host chipping days and volunteer help. See the Fire Safe Council of San Diego County for events and guidance.
• Utility clearance and outages: Follow SDG&E’s vegetation management guidance near power lines and be prepared for Public Safety Power Shutoffs.
• Permits: Confirm tree removal and grading requirements with San Diego County Planning & Development Services.
• Burning restrictions and disposal: Review rules with the San Diego County Air Pollution Control District. Use county chipping or green-waste disposal instead of burning whenever possible.

Preparing and maintaining defensible space is one of the best ways to protect your home and support your property’s value. If you are planning to sell in the next year, this calendar also helps you show buyers and insurers a well-cared-for home with clear documentation. When you want to discuss timing, prep, and ROI for upgrades, reach out. I am here to help you plan the smartest path forward.

Ready to plan a sale or tune up your property for the season? Request your Free Home Valuation with Unknown Company and get personalized next steps that fit your timeline.

FAQs

How far should I clear around my home in East County?

• Under PRC §4291, most homes need up to 100 feet of defensible space or to the property line. Local rules can be stricter, so confirm with your fire authority.

When is the best time to do major pruning or removals?

• Late winter through early spring is ideal so you are ready before peak fire weather. Avoid large removals during nesting season unless a biologist clears the work.

What should I prioritize if I only have one weekend?

• Clean the roof and gutters, clear the 0–5 foot zone to noncombustible materials, remove combustibles from under decks, and check vents for ember-resistant screening.

Do I need permits to remove a tree in San Diego County?

• It depends on the species, size, and location. Some native trees are protected. Check with San Diego County Planning & Development Services before removal.

Will defensible space and hardening help my insurance?

• Mitigation can support underwriting decisions. Keep dated photos, invoices, and inspection reports, and review the Department of Insurance’s mitigation guidance when speaking with your insurer.