Defensible Space Assistance for Seniors & People Living with Disabilities

How it works

Nevada County’s Access & Functional Needs (AFN) Program, also called the Defensible Space Assistance program, provides free defensible-space clearing services to eligible residents. The page says the work is available throughout Nevada County for qualified homeowners and residents.

What the service covers

The county states that defensible space clearing is provided within 100 feet of the home. It explains that defensible space helps slow wildfire spread and creates a buffer that helps firefighters and first responders defend homes safely. The page also notes that each property scheduled for treatment receives a pre-inspection and post-inspection to verify need and confirm compliance.

Project phases and status

The page says Phase I treatment was completed for 68 properties that had previously expressed interest and were determined eligible. It also says community engagement and eligibility verification were conducted for an additional 775 homes for Phase II. Environmental and cultural review of those 775 eligible properties is taking place in Phase II, and implementation will begin after that review is complete.

Funding and administration

The project is a county effort funded through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP). The page says HMGP funds are made available by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

What homeowners should know

This is a service, not a cash grant. The page does not state a dollar amount because the benefit is free clearing work rather than reimbursement or payment.