The Resilient Landscapes Coalition provides practical information to homeowners, landscape professionals, and defensible space inspectors about implementing defensible and resilient landscapes in the 0-100 foot zone around the home, based on the best scientific research and gardening expertise. Many homeowners believe that defensible space requires extensive clearing of trees and shrubs. The result may be unattractive, bare landscapes that invite invasive, fire prone plants. Others may feel overwhelmed to the point of inactivity, and intimidated by the possibility of creating a “moonscape”. 

Fire-wise landscaping integrates proper plant selection, placement and maintenance, with features such as retaining walls, paths, fencing, and open areas to reduce a property’s vulnerability to wildfire. Careful planning and design will reduce the possibility of ignition, lower fire intensity, and slow the spread of fire – all factors which will increase a home’s survivability during a wildfire.