Fire Protection & Defensible Space Services

black and white photo of a forest post fire, smoke rising

Sebastopol & Sonoma County
Wildfire Risk Reduction

In Sonoma County, fire protection isn’t optional — it’s a critical part of responsible property ownership. With wildfires growing more frequent and intense each year, taking proactive steps to reduce fuel loads and improve emergency access can make all the difference. At EA Tree Expert Company, we specialize in helping homeowners, landowners, and property managers create safer, code-compliant defensible spaces. Our services include hazardous tree removal, brush and vegetation clearing, and expert guidance based on the latest CAL FIRE regulations and local fire codes. Whether you live in a residential neighborhood, manage a rural acreage, or oversee a vineyard property, we tailor fire protection plans to your specific risks and landscape needs.

construction vehicles clearing out fallen tree branches

What is A
Defensible Space?

Defensible space is a buffer zone between a structure and the vegetation that surrounds it. Properly managing this space reduces the chance that a wildfire will spread to your home or business — and improves firefighter access.

California law (PRC §4291) requires at least 100 feet of defensible space around buildings in fire-prone areas.

  • Zone 0 (0–5 ft): Ember-resistant zone — keep it non-combustible
  • Zone 1 (5–30 ft): Remove dead plants, trim branches, and space shrubs
  • Zone 2 (30–100 ft): Reduce fuel load and maintain spacing between trees
Fire Protection 1

Our Fire Protection
Services

We provide comprehensive wildfire mitigation strategies, including:

Tree & Brush Removal

Eliminate dry or invasive trees, dead limbs, and flammable undergrowth.

Zone-Based Clearance

We follow California’s “Zone 0, 1, and 2” model for spacing, pruning, and clearing vegetation near structures.

Thinning & Crown Lifting

Reduce fuel loads and ladder fuels that can spread fire into the canopy.

Emergency Access Clearance

Clear driveways, private roads, and easements for fire truck access.

Fire-Safe Landscaping Guidance

We work with your landscaper or contractor to keep your property both fire-safe and visually appealing.

sebastopol oak removal with man in tree

Residential & Rural
Property Services

Whether you live in a neighborhood or on a multi-acre rural property, EA Tree will customize a fire mitigation plan that fits your needs — and your budget. We’ve worked with:

  • Homeowners in high-risk zones
  • Landowners near open space and forested land
  • Properties requiring insurance-mandated clearance
CAT crane removing tree

Don't wait for wildfire season—
Be Ready

Wildfires can happen fast. Be proactive with a trusted local team that understands the landscape, the laws, and how to keep your property safe.

📞 Call EA Tree Expert Company for a free defensible space assessment
📍 Serving Sebastopol, Occidental, Santa Rosa, and nearby communities
📧 service@ea-tree.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really need defensible space if I live in Sonoma County?

Yes. Much of Sonoma County is considered high or very high fire hazard severity zones. California law (PRC §4291) requires properties in these areas to maintain defensible space around all structures. It's not just a recommendation — it’s the law.

What is the difference between Zone 0, Zone 1, and Zone 2?
  • Zone 0 (0–5 ft): Ember-resistant zone — no flammable material next to the home.
  • Zone 1 (5–30 ft): Keep vegetation low, trimmed, and separated.
  • Zone 2 (30–100 ft): Reduce fuel loads — thin trees, clear brush, and mow grasses.

We base our services on these zones for maximum effectiveness and compliance.

Will you handle both brush and tree removal for fire clearance?

Absolutely. EA Tree Expert Company offers full-service vegetation management, including tree thinning/removal, brush clearing, deadwood removal, and more — all customized to your site.

Can I get fined if my property isn’t fire safe?

Yes. CAL FIRE and local agencies can issue notices and fines for non-compliance in high-risk zones. Insurance companies may also drop or refuse coverage if your property lacks defensible space. Staying ahead of it is critical.

Do you provide documentation for insurance or inspections?

Yes. After service, we can provide documentation or photos to show completed defensible space work — helpful for insurance renewals or HOA/fire marshal inspections.

How often should I maintain defensible space?

Annually is the minimum recommendation — but in some areas with fast regrowth or heavy brush, seasonal maintenance may be necessary. We offer scheduled maintenance plans to keep you compliant year-round.

What areas do you serve for fire protection services?

We’re based in Sebastopol and serve all surrounding areas, including Santa Rosa, Occidental, Graton, Windsor, Forestville, and other parts of Sonoma County.