CONTACT: WFPD (650) 851-1594  info@woodsidefire.org

RELEASE DATE: June 17, 2025

 Wildfire Risk is Year-Round – Here’s What You Need to Know

Did you know that some of the most destructive wildfires in California have occurred outside the traditional "fire season"? Recent fires like the Palisades Fire (Jan 2025) and Eaton Fire (Jan 2025) show that wildfire danger is now a year-round concern.

 Dead or dry vegetation on your property can put your home and neighbors at risk. Under Woodside Fire Protection District Ordinance No. 24-01 & 23-02 requires all property owners must maintain 100 feet of defensible space around all structures, year-round and cut and remove dry and dead vegetation.

 This includes:

• Trimming trees and shrubs
• Keeping driveways and access roads maintained and removal of all dead/dry vegetation
• Dry grasses/weeds shall be cut to less than 4 inches

These steps are not just about compliance – they're about safety. Fires fueled by dry vegetation and strong winds can ignite and spread rapidly, regardless of the season. 

Please know that at Woodside Fire Protection District, wildfire preparedness is not a seasonal activity—it is a year-round mission. We are deeply committed to safeguarding our community and our firefighters by reducing wildfire risks through proactive prevention, education, and enforcement. As part of our ongoing efforts to create a more fire-resilient environment, we will be increasing our presence throughout the District to ensure properties comply with defensible space and vegetation management requirements. Initial notices will be left on properties where dry or dead vegetation has not been abated, providing residents with the opportunity to address hazards before formal enforcement actions are considered. Our goal is not punitive—our focus is on partnering with our community to promote safety and preparedness for everyone. Let’s work together to keep our community fire-safe. 

Click Here: Year-Round Abatement Information

 Note:

Home Assessment Program: Enforcement of ordinance 24-01 is still in progress. If we have not completed your home assessment, you are not subject to any enforcement actions.

However, this does not mean you should delay in meeting the requirements of 24-01. There should be no delay, start now to protect your home and your property so by the time we do come around, the list to comply is not long. Zone 0 is the only new requirement.

Defensible space has been around for many years and was recommended, now, there is legal obligation to maintain it. Use the "Self-Assessment Checklist" to assist in preparing, begin to complete a little at a time. Start now!

The Home Assessment Program is not to be confused with your Year-Round responsibilities to remove all dry/dead vegetation on your property especially along the roads and driveways.