If you live in Tuolumne County, wildfire prep is part of home care. Hot, dry, windy days can push embers a long way, and small ignitions around your home can make the difference. The good news: a few focused steps can boost your home’s odds. This checklist gives you clear, local actions that align with California rules and Tuolumne County guidance so you can get started today. Let’s dive in.
Know the rules in Tuolumne County
California law requires defensible space up to 100 feet around most homes in high fire areas. The requirement comes from Public Resources Code 4291, which local agencies can inspect and enforce. Learn the basics in the statute and local guidance from Tuolumne County.
Wildfire hardening checklist
Zone 0: 0 to 5 feet
- Replace combustible mulch with rock, gravel, or hardscape along foundations and under windows.
- Remove dead leaves, needles, and any flammable storage by walls, steps, and fences.
- Keep containers noncombustible and small, and avoid woody plants against siding.
- Create a noncombustible buffer between decks and the house, and keep door thresholds clear.
Zone 1: 5 to 30 feet
- Keep grass short and remove dead vegetation.
- Space plants so flames cannot jump from shrubs to trees or from plantings to the house.
- Prune lower tree branches and separate shrubs under trees to eliminate ladder fuels.
- Maintain clean areas under decks and around sheds.
Zone 2: 30 to 100 feet
- Thin dense trees and brush to reduce fuel continuity.
- Mow or weed-whack tall grass and remove dead material.
- Maintain vertical and horizontal spacing based on slope and plant size.
- Continue clearing along driveways and access roads.
Roof and gutters
- Aim for a Class A roof when you repair or replace. Roofs are a top vulnerability to embers and heat, so materials and maintenance matter per this wildfire protection guide.
- Clean roof and gutters often in fire season.
- Consider metal gutters and quality guards, and still plan to clean debris.
Vents, windows, doors
- Upgrade to ember-resistant vents that are tested and listed for the Wildland Urban Interface. Check products on the Office of the State Fire Marshal’s WUI product listings.
- Seal gaps around pipes and penetrations.
- Use dual-pane windows with at least one tempered pane when you replace.
- Install and maintain solid-core or metal doors and keep clear zones at entries.
Siding, eaves, decks
- Prefer noncombustible or ignition-resistant siding such as fiber cement, stucco, or masonry when you remodel.
- Enclose eaves and soffits to reduce ember entry.
- Do not store items under decks. Enclose or screen under-deck areas and add a noncombustible strip where deck boards meet siding. See retrofit ideas in this fire-resilient building products guide.
Outbuildings and fuel storage
- Keep firewood, lumber, and other combustibles well away from structures, ideally 30 feet or more.
- Place propane tanks on a noncombustible base and clear vegetation around them.
- Maintain defensible space around sheds and fences tied to the house.
Access, address, water
- Trim driveway vegetation for fire engine access and safe evacuation.
- Post reflective address numbers visible from the road.
- Know your water options. Test hose reach, confirm hydrant access if available, and check pumps or storage.
Local help and inspections
Tuolumne County agencies conduct defensible space inspections and can require abatement where needed. If you need assistance, the Tuolumne Fire Safe Council coordinates local programs and grant-funded projects that help eligible seniors and residents with defensible space work. See current offerings on the Tuolumne Fire Safe Council program page.
Plan for PSPS and evacuation
Public Safety Power Shutoffs can occur during high-risk weather. Sign up for alerts and make a backup power and communications plan using PG&E’s PSPS resources. Also set up county alerts, pack a go-bag for each household member and pet, and map two or more evacuation routes.
Two-week quick start
- Clear all combustibles in the first 5 feet from the house.
- Clean roof and gutters.
- Move woodpiles and fuel cans far from structures.
- Sweep under decks and porches and remove stored items.
- Install temporary metal screens on accessible vents until you can upgrade to listed WUI vents.
- Sign up for local and PG&E alerts and finalize your go-bag.
Seasonal maintenance
- Spring: prune trees, mow grass, refresh hardscape in Zone 0, and inspect vents and weather seals.
- Summer: spot-check debris monthly and keep access routes clear.
- Fall: deep clean roof, gutters, and the 0 to 5 foot zone; review your evacuation plan.
- After wind events: walk the property line and remove fresh debris.
Ready to create a simple plan for your property or prep for a sale? Let’s talk through practical upgrades, timelines, and how to present wildfire-ready features to buyers. Reach out to Tuolumne Homes for local guidance tailored to your home and neighborhood.
FAQs
Is defensible space required in Tuolumne County?
- Yes. California PRC 4291 requires up to 100 feet of defensible space in many high fire areas, and Tuolumne County provides local guidance and inspections. See PRC 4291 and the County’s Defensible Space page.
What is Zone 0 and what should be there?
- Zone 0 is the 0 to 5 foot ember-resistant zone next to your home; keep it noncombustible with rock or hardscape and remove wood mulch, plants against siding, and any stored items.
Do ember-resistant vents really help?
- Yes. Vents are a common ember entry point, so upgrade to ember- and flame-resistant vents that are tested and listed for WUI use, and keep all openings screened and sealed.
How far should I keep woodpiles and propane?
- Store firewood and other combustibles as far from structures as practical, ideally 30 feet or more, and keep a clear, noncombustible area around propane tanks.
Where can I get help if I cannot do the work myself?
- Check local programs from the Tuolumne Fire Safe Council and watch for county or state grant projects that assist eligible residents with defensible space work.
