The deadline to remove dead brush and other hazardous vegetation is June
CAMARILLO — After a dry winter, Ventura County is approaching an early fire season. That means it’s even more important for residents to clear brush from around their homes and businesses by June 1.
“Six of California’s largest and most devastating fires have burned since 2020. The threat of wildfires will not diminish, so it’s crucial we find ways to reduce risk and increase safety.” Says Ventura County Fire Chief Dustin Gardner.
“Removing the flammable fuels around our homes and businesses is vital to reducing the loss caused by wildfire. The cleared area provides a defensible space for firefighters to protect your home and the homes in your communities.”
This week, the Ventura County Fire Department will start sending annual notices to the owners of about 18,000 properties in areas with high fire risk. The notices are reminders of the property owners’ responsibilities under the Ventura County Fire Code to remove hazardous vegetation that is within 100 feet of structures. This is true whether the building is on your property or someone else’s. Clearance is only required on the owner’s property.
Property owners should be aware of the following items that commonly result in a failed inspection:
- Cuttings are not raked and removed
- Trees aren’t limbed far enough away from roofline and chimneys
- Trees aren’t limbed up high enough off the ground
The Ventura County Fire Department is a national leader in fire hazard reduction, thanks to the great participation by county residents. More than 99% of property owners complete their brush clearance on time without the need for enforcement.
If a property owner does not remove fire hazards, the fire department will hire a contractor to do the work. The cost of the work plus an administrative fee of $1,785 will be billed as a special tax assessment and collected with property taxes.
More information is available on our website. For questions about the notice you have received, contact the local fire station listed on your notice, for general question call the Fire Hazard Reduction Program information line at (805) 389-9759.