Clearance Inspections for properties, 147,000 homes!

LAFD Urges Angelenos: Time to Clear Brush and Harden Your Home Against Wildfire Risk

As Southern California enters another high-risk wildfire season, the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) is stepping up its efforts to protect homes and communities. On May 2, 2026, LAFD announced its annual Brush Clearance Inspections for properties in the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHSZ). With over 147,000 parcels slated for review, the department’s Brush Task Force will be conducting surveys from May 1 through June 30, 2026.

Wildfire risk rises sharply as temperatures climb, making proactive home hardening and defensible space creation more critical than ever. The LAFD emphasizes that “Hardening Your Home is Your Best Defense” — and it’s not just about removing weeds. Proper defensible space gives your home a fighting chance by slowing or stopping an approaching fire.

Understanding Defensible Space Zones

Zone 0 (0-5 feet):

Create an ember-resistant zone immediately around your home. Remove all combustible materials, including wood mulch, dead leaves, and debris. This “no fuel” area is your first line of defense against flying embers.

Trim and Space (5+ feet):

Maintain a 3-5 foot buffer around the structure. Prune trees and shrubs so they are 6-10 feet away from the ground and ensure no vegetation touches the home. Proper spacing prevents fire from climbing from the ground into the structure.

Clear Roofs and Gutters:

Regularly remove all leaves, pine needles, and other debris from roofs and gutters. Clogged gutters are a major ember trap.

Seal Vents:

Cover attic and eave vents with 1/8-inch or smaller metal mesh to block embers from entering your home’s interior.

Important Deadlines and Fees

To avoid a $31.00 inspection fee, properties must be compliant by May 12, 2026.

- If your property fails inspection, you will receive a notice with required corrections.

- A second failed inspection can result in costly abatement fees.

- Properties affected by the recent Palisades fire may be exempt from the $31 fee but are still required to meet all safety regulations.

The LAFD strongly encourages residents to act now rather than wait for an inspector. Clearing brush and hardening your home protects not only your own property but also your neighbors and the broader community.

How to Check Your Status and Get Help

- View your parcel status and specific requirements: [https://fims.lafd.org](https://fims.lafd.org)

- Get more tips and guidance: [lafd.org/brush](https://lafd.org/brush)

Take action today. Preparing your property is one of the most effective steps you can take to defend against wildfires. With summer heat on the horizon, now is the time to create defensible space and harden your home.

Sources:

- Original Los Angeles Fire Department announcement (Facebook, May 2, 2026)

- LAFD Brush Clearance Program: https://fims.lafd.org

- Additional brush clearance resources: https://lafd.org/brush