For Immediate Release
April 8, 2021
Media Contact: Fire Marshal Joe Morelli
Ventura City Fire reminds the public to
clear brush ahead of fire season
Ventura, Calif. — Thousands of letters have been sent to homeowners in our city’s most vulnerable fire areas, to remind the community to harden properties by clearing combustible vegetation by May 18, 2021.
More than 6,500 parcels will receive Fire Hazard Reduction Program (FHRP) notices advising property owners to clear brush away from nearby buildings and maintain 100 feet of defensible space.
“Fire season is fast approaching and if vegetation is not managed it can create more hazardous conditions for wildfire,” said Ventura Fire Marshal Joe Morelli. “Fire prevention efforts are most successful when community members and firefighters work together.”
FHRP is designed to minimize fire danger by controlling the density and placement of flammable vegetation. The defensible space for each structure varies and depends on the topography and type of vegetation in that area. It is essential to slow or stop the spread of wildfire and it helps protect homes, businesses, and valuable property from catching fire- either from direct flame or radiant heat.
The Ventura City Parks and Recreation Department and Fire Department have partnered with the Ventura Regional Fire Safe Council (VRFSC) to provide a free community chipping event on Saturday, April 17, 2021, from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Residents are encouraged to drop-off yard waste and dispose of vegetation at the Poinsettia Pavilion, located at 3451 Foothill Road. See www.venturafiresafe.org for more information.
Inspections of properties in the highest fire hazard areas will begin at the end of May.
If you have questions or concerns about whether a property is in compliance with the defensible space requirements, please call (805) 658-4709, or email fhrp@cityofventura.ca.gov.
###
