Monterey, CA – As the Central Coast transitions into spring and summer, CAL FIRE has declared fire season and suspended all burn permits within the State Responsibility Area and Local Responsibility Areas under contract with CAL FIRE, in San Benito and Monterey Counties. This suspension takes effect July 1, 2019 and bans all residential outdoor burning of landscape debris.

“The recent vegetation fires in San Benito and Monterey Counties showcase the importance of defensible space,” said David Fulcher, CAL FIRE San Benito-Monterey Unit Chief. Substantial rainfall this winter and spring has created a significant crop of annual grass that has now cured. The brush and trees have begun their summer transition to highly flammable vegetation. “Please protect your life and property, as well as the lives of firefighters, by creating and maintaining a minimum of 100 feet of defensible space. We’re ready for wildfire; are you?” Since January 1, 2019, CAL FIRE and firefighters across the state have already responded to over 1,800 wildfires that have burned over 18,000 acres.

“We can’t predict when and where a wildfire will start, but all of us can prepare. Visit ReadyForWildfire.org,” said Chief Fulcher.

CAL FIRE is asking residents to ensure that they are prepared for wildfires including maintaining a minimum of 100 feet of Defensible Space around every home.

Here are some tips to help prepare your home and property:
• Clear all dead or dying vegetation 100 feet around all structures.
• Landscape with fire resistant/drought tolerant plants
• Find alternative ways to dispose of landscape debris like chipping or hauling it to a biomass energy facility

The department may issue restricted temporary burning permits if there is an essential reason due to public health, safety. Campfires are allowed in designated campgrounds, or in established facilities on private property with permission of the landowner and jurisdictional authority. Persons burning under any special permit must also check with the Monterey Bay Air Resources District for additional regulations and requirements.
For additional information on preparing for and preventing wildfires visit www.ReadyForWildfire.org.
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