With deep roots in Malibu and Santa Monica, our founder Brit has witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of wildfires on communities, landscapes, and homes. This issue hits close to her heart, but she also sees a way to help. That’s why we’re talking about this on the blog—as so many begin the process of rebuilding their homes and rethinking their outdoor spaces.

In 2018, Brit designed a landscape that faced the ultimate test: it survived the Woosley wildfires. That experience profoundly shaped her philosophy on creating outdoor spaces that are not only aesthetically stunning but also built to endure the unthinkable.

Rebuilding after a fire is an emotional and practical challenge, especially in areas like the Palisades where wildfires are a constant threat. One of the most important steps you can take in this process is to design a fire-resistant landscape that not only protects your property but also contributes to the overall safety of your neighborhood. This step-by-step guide will help you plan a fire-proof landscape, with 10 plant suggestions that are perfect for the unique conditions of the Los Angeles area, and references to government resources to help you along the way.

Step-by-Step Guide to Planning a Fire-Proof Landscape in Los Angeles, California

In Los Angeles, fire risk is a significant concern, particularly in areas near wildlands or during dry seasons. Designing a fire-resistant landscape can help protect your home, reduce the spread of flames, and minimize fire hazards. Below is a step-by-step guide to planning a fire-proof landscape, along with 10 plant suggestions that are well-suited to the region’s climate and fire safety needs.

Step 1: Create Defensible Space

The first step in planning a fire-proof landscape is creating defensible space around your home. This is the area where you reduce vegetation and other combustible materials to create a buffer zone to protect your property from fire. Defensible space should be divided into three zones:

Zone 1 (0-5 feet): This is the area closest to your home, where flammable plants and materials should be kept to a minimum. Use non-combustible surfaces, such as stone or gravel, and consider fire-resistant plants.
Zone 2 (5-30 feet): This area should have low-growing, fire-resistant plants that can prevent flames from spreading to your home. Space plants appropriately to reduce crowding and minimize fire risk.
Zone 3 (30-100 feet): This area extends out and should be maintained to prevent dense vegetation from growing, which can fuel a fire.

Step 2: Choose Fire-Resistant Plants

Fire-resistant plants have high moisture content, are low in resin, and tend to be less likely to catch fire. When selecting plants, ensure they are native, drought-tolerant, and suited to Los Angeles’ climate. The following plants are great for fire-proof landscaping:

California Lilac (Ceanothus spp.) – A beautiful shrub with clusters of blue or purple flowers, ideal for Zone 2.
Desert Marigold (Baileya multiradiata) – A low-growing perennial that thrives in sunny conditions and adds yellow flowers.
Toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia) – A tough shrub with white flowers and red berries, perfect for Zone 2.
California Fuchsia (Epilobium canum) – A vibrant flowering plant that is drought-tolerant and attracts hummingbirds.
Manzanita (Arctostaphylos spp.) – A hardy shrub with reddish bark and evergreen leaves that is fire-resistant when maintained properly.
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) – A perennial with a high moisture content that thrives in sun and is perfect for Zones 1 and 2.
Coastal Sagebrush (Artemisia californica) – A fragrant, drought-tolerant shrub that is great for fire-prone areas.
Red-Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea) – A deciduous shrub with striking red stems and moderate fire resistance when kept hydrated.
Penstemon (Penstemon spp.) – An attractive, fire-resistant perennial with vibrant flowers that attract pollinators.
Brittlebush (Encelia farinosa) – A drought-tolerant plant with silver leaves and yellow flowers that is fire-resistant and thrives in dry conditions.

A. Penstemon (Penstemon spp.) B. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) C. Red-Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea) D. Coastal Sagebrush (Artemisia californica) E. Desert Marigold (Baileya multiradiata) F. Toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia) G. California Fuchsia (Epilobium canum)

Step 3: Implement Proper Irrigation

Ensure that your fire-resistant plants receive adequate water, especially during dry seasons. Drip irrigation systems are ideal for minimizing water waste and keeping plants hydrated. Regular irrigation also helps maintain moisture levels in the plants, making them more fire-resistant.

Step 4: Maintain Your Landscape

To keep your landscape fire-resistant, regularly prune dead or overgrown vegetation, especially in Zones 1 and 2. Remove fallen leaves, pine needles, or other debris that can catch fire easily. Keep your plants healthy and well-watered, and trim any plants that may encroach on the defensible space zone.

Step 5: Use Non-Combustible Materials

In addition to selecting fire-resistant plants, use non-combustible materials for pathways, fences, and hardscape features. Stone, gravel, brick, and concrete can be used to reduce fire risks. Avoid using wood mulch close to your home, as it can catch fire easily.

Step 6: Utilize Fire-Resistant Mulch

If you must use mulch in your landscape, choose fire-resistant options such as gravel, lava rock, or decomposed granite. Avoid using wood chips or bark mulch within 5 feet of structures.

Step 7: Check Local Regulations and Resources

Los Angeles has fire codes that help guide homeowners on how to create fire-resistant landscapes. The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) and the California Fire Safe Council provide excellent resources and guidelines for homeowners looking to protect their property. You can also use the Firewise USA program to assess your property’s fire risk and access helpful planning tools.

For more detailed information and resources, visit:

Los Angeles Fire Department: https://www.lafd.org
California Fire Safe Council: https://www.calfiresafecouncil.org
Firewise USA: https://www.firewise.org

Conclusion

Creating a fire-proof landscape in Los Angeles involves careful planning, plant selection, and maintenance. By incorporating fire-resistant plants and materials, maintaining defensible space, and following local fire safety guidelines, you can significantly reduce your property’s fire risk. For a more tailored approach, Blueprint Earth can help you design and build a fire-resistant landscape that suits your needs and local climate.

Contact us today to get started on making your landscape safer and more resilient to fire.

Fire-Proof Landscaping to Rebuild After The Palisades Fire