Sustainable Defensible Space

DefensibleSpace.org is a platform advocating for sustainable, Firewise practices in Southern California landscapes.

Developed in collaboration with the Resource Conservation District of the Santa Monica Mountains, RIOS, and funded by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) through the California Climate Investments Program, this platform introduces the concept of Sustainable Defensible Space (SDS) — the area extending up to 100 feet around a home.

The condition of this space is critical not only for increasing a structure’s resistance to wildfire and safeguarding firefighters’ lives, but also for enhancing conservation values and protecting California’s natural heritage. Landscaping choices within this zone offer the greatest opportunity to improve habitat quality and ecosystem benefits such as increased carbon storage, biodiversity, slope stability, and water conservation.

Visit DefensibleSpace.org for more information.

Read our feature in Pacific Horticulture Magazine here.