Skip to content
Margrave
Defensible Space, Zone 0 & Property Improvements

The property protects
the house.

A hardened house still needs a defensible property. We build the noncombustible zone right against the home, clear and treat the surrounding vegetation, and correct grading and drainage so the site supports the structure.

Rural Shasta County home with cleared defensible space and a noncombustible perimeter

Fire does not care where one trade ends and another begins. The first five feet around a home, combustible fences and attachments, overgrown slopes and poor drainage all affect how a property holds up. We treat the house and the land around it as one scope.

Our site work goes beyond landscaping. We bring construction experience to grading, drainage, access and hardscape, the same foundation that supports trenching, conduit and equipment pads for generators, batteries and other electrical work.

Property work

01

Zone Zero (0–5 ft)

Removing combustibles against the house and replacing them with gravel, pavers, concrete and other noncombustible surfaces.

02

Defensible space

Clearing, thinning and treating vegetation in the zones around the home, with debris removal.

03

Grading & drainage

Correcting slopes and drainage around the structure as part of hardening and property improvement projects.

04

Site & utility work

Trenching, conduit, equipment pads and restoration that support generators, batteries and electrical upgrades.

FAQ

Common questions

What is Zone Zero?

Zone Zero is the area within five feet of a home. It is where embers most often ignite something that then ignites the house. California is finalizing statewide Zone Zero regulations; regardless of timing, keeping this zone free of combustibles is one of the most effective things a homeowner can do.

How far does defensible space need to go?

In State Responsibility Areas, California law (PRC 4291) requires up to 100 feet of defensible space around structures, or to the property line. The intensity of clearing changes by zone.

Can you do the house and the property together?

Yes, and that is usually the best approach. Coordinating Zone Zero, fences and attachments with siding, vents and decks avoids gaps between trades.

Defensible Space

Let's walk the property together.

Owner-led site visits. Clear recommendations. No pressure. Prefer to talk? Call or text (530) 440-5959.

Request a Property Assessment

Owner-led site visits, typically scheduled within the same week. We respond within one business day.

Owner-led site visits. Clear recommendations. No pressure.

Licensed B General + C-10 Electrical · CSLB #1146754

Call Schedule a Visit