Defensible Space – Tree Trimming

Along with Spring cleaning comes fire preparedness. As the rains pull back and we start to spend more time in the yard maintaining vegetation and trees, it’s good to be mindful of the Defensible Space requirements from San Diego County Fire. Reviewing clearance standards for trees and shrubs, removing leaf litter, and maintaining driveway clearance are vital to the community’s efforts to reduce fire fuels. The Association’s landscape standards outlined in the SDCEA Handbook were updated in 2023 to mirror the defensible space requirements.

Section 4.1.6 of the SDCEA Handbook provides directions on landscape requirements. Some key takeaways for defensible space are trimming tree canopies to a minimum 6-ft clearance from the ground. When tree branches are over shrubs and other plants, that clearance increases to whichever is greater: 6-ft clearance or 3 times the height of the shrub. For example, if we have a 3-ft shrub under a tree, there needs to be 9-ft between the top of the shrub and the lowest branch of the tree. SDCEA Handbook Section 4.1.6 (e).

Tree Clearance

[See image above.]

Photo: Cal Fire website

https://readyforwildfire.org/prepare-for-wildfire/defensible-space/

Additionally, tree clearance for emergency vehicle access is 13-ft 6 in from the ground in the following locations: roads, driveways, and easements.

Spring, with its mild weather, is the ideal time to trim trees. In the summer, trees can become heat-stressed, and trimming can pose challenges to their health. The clearance standards still need to be met year-round, but it's better to do so in the spring to support the life and health of your plants.

Dead, dying or diseased trees should be removed as soon as possible. These conditions make a tree particularly susceptible to fire danger. And diseased trees could affect surrounding trees if not addressed.

Please remember, if you plan to remove a tree from your lot, submit a Landscape Application for the Environmental Control Committee to review. Contact the Community Relations Department at CRDdept@sdcea.net or 760-789-8747 for assistance with applications or questions regarding landscape maintenance.