Free Wildfire Mitigation Review Program

How it works

This is a free on-site wildfire mitigation review of a resident’s home and property. A trained advisor volunteer conducts the review at the homeowner’s request. The purpose is to assess the home’s current level of wildfire preparation and recommend actions that can reduce wildfire risk.

What the money covers

No money is paid directly to the homeowner for the review itself. The service includes an inspection of defensible space zones and recommendations covering:

• Access route clearance and signage
• Home hardening upgrades
• Defensible space fuel-reduction treatment and options

Defensible space zones reviewed

The page says the inspection includes:

• Zone 0, Ember-Resistant Zone (0–5 feet): an ember-resistant area around the home, such as gravel or a concrete/brick walkway.
• Zone 1, Lean/Clean/Green Zone (5–30 feet): reduce the chance of fire spreading from nearby vegetation by keeping vegetation limited, debris removed, and plants green and irrigated when appropriate.
• Zone 2, Reduced Fuel Zone (30–100 feet): reduce fire spread by removing dead plant material, lowering tree branches, and addressing ladder fuels.

Amounts and matching

The review itself is free. The page notes that completing the free home review is the first step to qualifying for financial assistance of up to 50% reimbursement for defensible space improvements suggested in the review.

How to apply

Homeowners are told to schedule a free review for a Yuba County home. The page also says to email programs@yubafiresafe.org with questions, and that a printable version of the application is available by emailing info@yubafiresafe.org.

Timing and deadlines

The page says grant funding is limited and encourages homeowners not to delay. A mitigation review performed in 2025 or 2026 is required to participate in the reimbursement program. No other deadline is stated.