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15117 Ventura Blvd # 1 Sherman Oaks, CA 91403

(818) 452 3470

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Brush Clearing Pacific Palisades

Why is brush clearing in Pacific Palisades so important?

Did you know that more than 60% of new residential development since 1990 has been in wildfire-prone areas? For Pacific Palisades residents, this statistic hits close to home. In 2019, the Palisades fire destroyed over 50 acres of land – forcing hundreds of residents to evacuate for their own safety. Despite the quick reaction and heroic efforts of LAFD firefighters, it took days to contain the fire. This is because the Pacific Palisades is home to plenty of dry brush, which can catch fire quickly. Southern California is a very arid, drought-prone environment. The high temperatures, strong Santa Ana winds, and dry weather create the perfect fuel for wildfires. Without consistent brush clearing, Pacific Palisades residential properties can endanger those around them and contribute to wildfire spread.

In order to prevent future fires, Los Angeles County created the brush clearance and inspection program. Pacific Palisades is considered part of Los Angeles County, and thus city residents must comply with program requirements. We always recommend following brush clearance guidelines; however, only certain areas are required to comply. These areas are known as Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (VHFHSZ). They are depicted in red on the official Los Angeles Fire Department zone map. To enforce the ordinance, the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) will conduct property inspections and issue citations. Homeowners who do not respond to clearance orders will incur hefty non-compliance fees.

What are the brush clearance requirements for LA County in 2020?

The LAFD has issued fewer than ten unique brush clearance requirements, but it can be difficult for homeowners to meet the highly specific guidelines. For example, all trees in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (VHFHSZ) must be trimmed up so the foliage is no closer than 10 feet from the outlet of a chimney. If you have any trees taller than 18 feet, the lower branches must be trimmed so no foliage is within six feet of the ground. Tree trimming and brush clearing often require the use of heavy machinery. Therefore, it is very dangerous for homeowners to attempt the work themselves. You’ll eliminate the risk to your health and any potential damage to neighboring property by getting help from professionals like those at Green Leaf Zone.

If you’ve received a notice of noncompliance, we recommend contacting a professional brush and tree service company. You will have 15 days from receipt of the notice to bring your property to compliance. As the leading provider of brush clearing in Pacific Palisades, we’re very familiar with the local plant life and the brush clearance requirements set by the Los Angeles Fire Department.

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