Zone 2: The First 100 Feet
Reduce fuel continuity and create spacing between vegetation to help slow wildfire movement toward structures.
Distance 5–100 feet from the home
Priority Reduce fire intensity
Main goal Break up vegetation and fuel sources
Improve Vegetation Spacing
Trees and shrubs that grow too closely together can allow fire to move quickly across a property.
- Increase spacing between trees and groups of vegetation.
- Separate shrubs located beneath trees.
- Remove dead branches and dying vegetation.
- Keep tree canopies from touching when practical.
Reduce Ladder Fuels
Ladder fuels are vegetation that can allow fire to climb from the ground into shrubs and tree canopies.
- Remove brush and smaller trees growing beneath larger trees.
- Limb up trees approximately 6 to 10 feet from the ground, or up to one-third of the tree height where appropriate.
- Remove dead lower branches and accumulated debris.
- Maintain separation between grasses, shrubs, and tree canopies.
Source: County official from Missoula, Montana
Move Combustible Materials Away From Structures
Reduce materials that could become concentrated fuel sources around homes and buildings.
Firewood
- Store firewood at least 30 feet from structures whenever practical.
- Remove leaves, weeds, and debris around wood piles.
- During periods of elevated wildfire risk, move smaller wood piles farther from buildings.
Propane Tanks
- Maintain approximately 10 feet of clearance around propane tanks.
- Remove grass, weeds, brush, and combustible vegetation.
- Do not stack combustible materials near tanks.
Maintain Vegetation Year-Round
Wildfire prevention is ongoing and should be maintained throughout the year.
- Mow grasses and weeds regularly.
- Remove dead leaves and pine needles.
- Clean debris from around utility equipment.
- Monitor vegetation growth during spring and summer.
- Remove storm-damaged trees and branches when safe.
Maintain Driveways and Access Areas
Emergency responders need safe access during wildfire events.
- Trim branches over roads and driveways.
- Keep access routes free of overgrown vegetation.
- Ensure gates are clearly marked and accessible.
- Maintain reflective address signs.
Next Steps
Continue working outward around your property to reduce wildfire risk beyond the first 100 feet.