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- Info
Improving fire hazard assessment in South Lake Tahoe, CA
| Author: |
de Jong, L. |
| Date: |
2003 |
| Periodical: |
Fire Management Today |
| Abstract: |
Because homeowners must be actively involved in fire hazard mitigation in the wildland/urban interface (WUI), private landscaping practices are closely regulated in high-fire-hazard areas in California (California Public Resources Code [PRC] 4291). PRC 4291 limits plant choice, density, and placement; regulates property maintenance practices; and requires at least 30 feet (9 m) of defensible space around homes (Cohen 1995; Foote and others 1991; Tran and others 1992). This article describes a fire hazard analysis conducted on private, developed lots in South Lake Tahoe, CA. In this WUI community, many developed lots are noncompliant with PRC 4291, although active agency outreach and public support of fuels reduction on undeveloped lots exists (Garrett 2002; Harcourt 2002). Fire hazard was assessed by using the National Fire Protection Association's Standard for protection of Life and Property from Wildfire (NFPA 299); determining compliance with PRC 4291; and observing construction materials, irrigation practices, and the condition of neighboring properties. |
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