Berkeley Fire Department Offers Free Help For Homeowners To Create Defensible Space

BERKELEY, CA — The Berkeley Fire Department is stepping up wildfire prevention efforts with its Resident Assistance Program (RAP), designed to help property owners comply with defensible space regulations.

The program provides financial and logistical support to residents who are physically unable or financially unable to clear vegetation and meet safety standards.

Defensible space—the buffer between a building and the surrounding grass, trees, shrubs, or wildland—is critical to slowing or stopping the spread of wildfire.

Through RAP, the Berkeley Fire Department will fund contractors to complete vegetation management work for eligible homeowners, helping to protect both individual properties and surrounding neighborhoods. “When residents can’t create defensible space due to age, disability, or financial hardship, they face higher fire risks and possible penalties,” a fire department spokesperson said.

“The Resident Assistance Program helps make wildfire safety more accessible and achievable for everyone.”

The program is not currently accepting applications as the department works to secure additional grant funding. Contact the program administrator by email to make a donation or for more information: FireSafeBerkeley@berkeleyca.gov.

Updates on program availability will be shared through the department’s website and direct community outreach.

In its most recent cycle, RAP successfully helped dozens of households reduce fire hazards and improve safety compliance. Residents are encouraged to check the Berkeley Fire Department’s announcement page for updates and application details once the program reopens.

With wildfire season approaching, the department emphasizes the importance of early preparation and community-wide participation in fire prevention efforts.