2020 started out rough for everybody around the world thanks to COVID-19 concerns. Non-essential businesses across the country shut down around mid-March. California’s lockdown could continue through July. One thing that won’t go on lockdown? Wildfire season. It’s here. Local government officials require all Ventura County homeowners to get rid of dead brush and other fire hazards on their properties to lower the chances of total devastation from a wildfire. The deadline to complete your brush clearance is today. Are you in compliance? If you brought your property into compliance with the county’s brush clearance policy, where do you take your trimmings?

Brush Clearance in Ventura County

How to Clear Your Brush

First, concentrate on any flammable or combustible materials in or around your Ventura home such as dead vegetation. Then, thin out your overgrown shrubs and trees. Remove any dead plants, mulch, firewood piles, dried leaves, etc. located near your house. Your goal should be to leave at least a three-foot radius (if not more) around your home that stays clear of anything flammable. This helps provide a natural barrier between flammable materials and your house in case a wildfire approaches.

Where to Dispose of Brush

Residential disposal only picks up so much in yard trimmings. Ojai’s recycling center is closed at this time. But, Gold Coast Recycling in Ventura and Oxnard’s Del Norte Recycling remain open. And the non-profit CREW (Concerned Resource and Environmental Workers) helps residents dispose of their yard waste by offering drop-offs at Honor Farms and curbside chipping for specific days. In fact, CREW hosts a “Curbside Chipper Day” on June 20th in Moorpark. But that’s just the first one. Other dates could be announced later. If you’re interested in utilizing their services, visit the CREW website to sign up. They also work with elderly and low-income residents to bring their wood chipper directly to your home. Visit CREW’s Wood Chipper Program for more information.

Dave & Pat Zumbrun, your Ventura County real estate specialists