Wildfire season is part of life in Novato, but a few smart weekend projects can do a lot to protect your home. If you have wondered where to start or what is required, you are not alone. In this guide, you will learn what to do in each defensible space zone, which local programs can help, and how to stay compliant. Let’s dive in.
Why defensible space matters in Novato
Novato sits in Marin’s wildland‑urban interface, where embers and wind can push fire into neighborhoods. Countywide efforts through the Marin Wildfire Prevention Authority support local projects and homeowner assistance across Novato. Learn more about MWPA’s role.
California law generally requires up to 100 feet of defensible space from your structures, or to your property line if it is closer. This requirement comes from Public Resources Code 4291. You can review the statute summary here: PRC 4291 defensible space.
Work the three zones
Creating defensible space is easier when you break it into zones. CAL FIRE provides diagrams and practical steps that you can follow. See their full guidance at CAL FIRE Defensible Space.
Zone 0: 0–5 feet (ember‑resistant)
The first five feet around your home is critical. Keep it noncombustible.
- Use gravel, stone, concrete, or pavers instead of wood mulch.
- Remove dead leaves and needles from roofs, gutters, and decks.
- Keep planters and stored firewood out of this zone.
- Seal gaps and keep under‑deck areas free of debris.
Statewide Zone 0 regulations have been under formal rulemaking, and details have evolved. Follow updates and prepare now by using CAL FIRE’s ember‑resistant guidance. See reporting on rulemaking progress here: Zone 0 rulemaking update.
Zone 1: 5–30 feet (lean, clean, green)
This is your main maintenance zone. Focus on spacing and upkeep.
- Remove dead plants, weeds, and piles of yard waste.
- Keep irrigated plants healthy and trimmed away from structures.
- Space shrubs and trees so they do not touch each other or the house.
- Move combustibles like wood furniture or spare lumber away from walls.
Zone 2: 30–100 feet (or to the property line)
Here you reduce continuous fuels so fire slows down.
- Mow annual grasses to about 4 inches during the safe mowing season.
- Remove ladder fuels so fire cannot climb from ground plants into trees.
- Prune lower tree branches to create vertical separation from ground plants.
- Maintain horizontal spacing between tree canopies based on slope and plant height.
Choose and maintain plants wisely
No plant is fireproof. Your best strategy is smart selection plus regular maintenance and irrigation. Fire Safe Marin offers local plant lists and tips, including species to avoid near structures. Explore Fire‑smart plant guidance for Marin.
Simple rules that help:
- Favor low‑growth, well‑irrigated plants near buildings.
- Avoid fire‑prone species close to the house, such as mature junipers and Italian cypress.
- Clear fine fuels like dead twigs and leaf litter from beds and borders.
Time your work and stay safe
Plan the most hazardous vegetation work for cooler, less windy conditions. CAL FIRE advises against mowing on hot or windy days and recommends doing this work before 10 a.m. when possible. See guidance at CAL FIRE Defensible Space.
For trees, Novato recommends avoiding non‑emergency pruning during active nesting seasons when possible. The city cites October through December as a better window for general, non‑urgent pruning. Before removing significant trees, review the City’s permit guidance: Novato Tree Removal Guide.
Local programs you can use
Novato Fire offers free on‑site defensible space and home‑hardening assessments by Wildfire Mitigation Specialists. After an assessment, homeowners may qualify for local grant support. Example amounts shown on the Novato site include up to $2,500 for home‑hardening and up to $1,000 for defensible space projects. Check current details and eligibility here: Novato Fire grant programs.
For disposal, take advantage of seasonal curbside chipping events at no cost, with pre‑registration. Review preparation rules, accepted materials, and schedules: Novato Chipper Day.
Know your evacuation zone and sign up for local alerts. Start with Novato’s mapping resources: Novato evacuation maps and info.
Permits and compliance basics
Tree work and removals can require permits, depending on species, size, and conditions. Before major pruning or removal, consult the City’s process and, if needed, an arborist. See the permit overview: Novato Tree Removal Guide.
Inspections and education are active across Marin. Depending on where you live, local fire agencies or CAL FIRE may inspect and require abatement if hazards persist. If you receive an inspection notice, use it as a checklist and ask for a re‑inspection after you complete the work.
Budget and document your progress
Costs vary by lot size, slope, access, and vegetation. Many Novato homeowners combine DIY work with targeted contractor help and then apply for available grants to offset expenses. Whatever you do, document it: take before‑and‑after photos, save receipts, and keep copies of inspection or assessment reports.
Mitigation is increasingly recognized by insurers and in state programs. Review the state’s framework for wildfire risk reduction and insurance conversations: Safer From Wildfires program.
A weekend defensible space checklist
- Zone 0: Clear leaves from roofs and gutters. Remove wood mulch and combustible planters within 5 feet. Sweep decks and seal gaps.
- Zone 1: Remove dead plants and weeds. Trim shrubs away from siding and windows. Create space between plants.
- Zone 2: Mow grasses to a low, safe height during the proper season. Prune lower tree branches to reduce ladder fuels. Thin dense areas.
- Disposal: Pre‑register for a Chipper Day and stack materials to program specs.
- Paper trail: Photograph work, keep invoices, and file assessment reports.
- Safety and readiness: Confirm your evacuation zone and update your go‑bag.
Ready to protect your Novato home?
If you are planning improvements before selling or you simply want a safer, more resilient property, let a local advisor help you prioritize the highest‑impact steps. For guidance on which upgrades add value and how to leverage local programs, reach out to Greg Corvi.
FAQs
How far should I clear defensible space around my Novato home?
- California’s PRC 4291 generally requires up to 100 feet of defensible space from structures, or to the property line if closer; follow local guidance for your exact site.
What is allowed within the first 5 feet of my house (Zone 0)?
- Keep this area noncombustible with hardscape like gravel or pavers, remove all dead material, and avoid wood mulch, combustible planters, and stored firewood.
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Novato?
- You may; Novato regulates many tree removals and recommends scheduling non‑emergency pruning outside nesting season—check the City’s Tree Removal Guide before work.
How do I dispose of branches and brush after clearing?
- Use Novato’s curbside Chipper Day program during the season, following size and material rules, or hire a contractor who will haul away chips and debris.
Will defensible space help my homeowners insurance in California?
- Mitigation that combines defensible space with home hardening is part of the state’s Safer From Wildfires framework; document work and discuss options with your insurer.
Who inspects and enforces defensible space rules in Novato?
- Local fire agencies and, in some areas, CAL FIRE conduct inspections and can require abatement; Novato Fire also offers free assessments to help you comply.
