Fire Hazard Reduction Permits |
Permits for vegetation removal to reduce fire hazards around rural residential homes The 30-foot wide zone that surrounds a structure, often referred to as the defensible space, is often comprised of lawns, landscaping, parking, or other developed areas, so implementing many of the vegetation management activities described in Fire Safety Tips for Rural Homeowners (421K .pdf) can be done without the need to obtain permits from the Department of Development and Environmental Services (DDES). Generally speaking, managing landscaped areas does not require a permit. However, if you need to alter native vegetation to establish this 30-foot wide defensible zone or to improve horizontal clearance along your driveway, a permit is required from DDES. DDES issues these permits free of charge and application can be submitted via this Web page. The new permitting process for vegetation management to reduce fire hazards around rural-residential structures simply requires the property owner to describe the proposed project and when the work will be performed. DDES will issue a permit to the property owner which, along with a list of required best management practices, will be mailed within one business day. The permit is free as long as the work is done according to the permit conditions and best management practices. To apply for a fire hazard reduction permit, either:
This permit is restricted to the 30-foot zone immediately adjacent to the structure or to the area within five feet of the edge of an existing driveway. To work beyond this zone may require other permits for which permit fees would be charged. For more information on these permits, call DDES Site Development Services at 206-296-6759. |
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Updated: June 3, 2005 |
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