HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020_09 Wildfire Preparedness Postcard for WUI PropertiesWildland Urban Interface Area (WUI)
The Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) area of Saratoga is at the greatest risk for wildfire. The WUI covers roughly half the City
along the western hillsides of Saratoga. This part of the City is subject to special regulations and requirements due to the
fire risk. The City works closely with Santa Clara County Fire Department and the Santa Clara County FireSafe Council to
help provide information and resources to property owners in the WUI.
WUI Defensible Space Tree Removal Regulations
Creating and maintaining defensible space around your home can help prevent wildfire. You can now remove trees on
WUI properties that are compliant with defensible space standards if the tree is within 100 feet of a structure and creates
an increased wildfire risk that cannot be addressed through maintenance. Trees removed under this new rule before the
end of 2020 are not subject to tree replacement requirements. For information, visit www.saratoga.ca.us/fire
Dead Tree Removal Rebate Pilot Program
Properties in the City’s WUI are eligible to receive a rebate of up to $1,000 per residence on a first-come, first-served basis
to cover costs associated with removal of dead trees. A free permit is required before removal. For more information
about the rebate program, visit www.saratoga.ca.us/fire
Home Ignition Zone Inspection
Need help figuring out how to create defensible space on your property? Request a Home Ignition Zone Inspection from
the Santa Clara County FireSafe Council! A trained representative will walk your property with you for up to 60 minutes and
share recommendations for defensible space and home hardening. For more information, visit www.saratoga.ca.us/fire
Become a Firewise Community
Take action and work with your neighbors to reduce wildfire risk for the whole community. The Firewise Community
designation is awarded by the National Fire Protection Association to neighborhoods who work together to prepare and
protect their homes. Learn more at www.saratoga.ca.us/fire
CITY OF SARATOGA WILDLAND URBAN INTERFACE
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PSPS Ready
On days when there is a risk for fire, PG&E may turn off your power
to reduce risk of wildfire. Prepare now for a Public Safety Power
Shutoff (PSPS) event by making sure PG&E has your current contact
information so you will receive an alert before your power is turned
off. If you qualify as a medical baseline customer, you can get extra
notifications in advance of a PSPS event, and a lower rate on your
energy bill. Plan ahead, especially if you depend on powered medical
devices, by installing generators and having an evacuation plan. Visit
www.saratoga.ca.us/PSPS for more information.
Red Flag Warnings When conditions are ripe for extreme fire behavior, the United States
Weather Service will issue a Red Flag Warning. Be on high alert and
avoid activities that could cause a fire, like driving over or trimming
dry grass. Be ready for the possibility of a fire by relocating large
animals outside of the fire risk area and preparing members of your
household with medical or mobility issues to evacuate if needed. For
more info, visit www.sccfd.org/rsg
Evacuation Planning
Before you are asked to evacuate, take time to prepare. Start by
signing up for emergency notifications at alertscc.com to receive
evacuation information. Then visit www.sccfd.org/rsg to learn how
to create an evacuation plan for your family.
More Information www.saratoga.ca.us/fireCITY o f S ARATO
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13777 Fruitvale Avenue • Saratoga, CA 95070