Home Inspections & Reports
In 1997, the Sleepy Hollow Fire Protection District piloted the first wildfire safety home evaluation program in the County using seasonal inspectors from the Marin County Fire Department. The county wide program is now funded by the Marin Wildfire Prevention Authority and staffed by a combination of MWPA and local fire department inspectors.
Hardening homes and creating defensible space are the best ways to help protect homes and structures from wildfire. Defensible Space creates a buffer between a structure and the vegetation that surrounds it. Home Hardening addresses the most vulnerable components of a structure with building materials and installation techniques that increase resistance to heat, flames, and embers that accompany wildfires. Many home hardening measures are simple, low-cost retrofits for buildings and structures that decrease flammability potential.
The home evaluation reports provide action steps for decreasing the vulnerability of home features that do not necessitate home upgrades.
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About the Inspectors
Inspectors from Marin Wildfire and local fire departments inspect residential properties to evaluate whether they meet wildland urban interface (WUI) defensible space, vegetation management, and construction standards. Homeowners receive a comprehensive online report that includes recommendations for improving the home’s ability to survive a wildfire. This evaluation may also determine if the property meets state and local requirements for defensible space. Some issues identified may be required by law and must be corrected.
Marin Fire Department wildifire safety inspectors include both full time and seasonal employees. Seasonal employees participate in a two-week academy to prepare them to help educate homeowners on protecting their homes from wildfires.
During the academy, inspectors received training in defensible space, wildfire prevention, and community outreach. They also hear from guest speakers who share their fire service experiences and career paths in both prevention and suppression.
Some inspectors may look familiar, as neighborhoods are revisited every few seasons, with follow-up inspections completed as needed.
If you see inspectors in your neighborhood, be sure to say hello! They’re here to help residents reduce wildfire risk and build safer, more resilient communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Defensible Space & Home Hardening evaluations so important?
60-90% of homes are lost from tiny embers that ignite combustible materials around the home or materials used in the construction of the home itself. By educating residents on their defensible space responsibilities and identifying what they can improve this makes them and their neighbors safer.
How is MWPA supporting these evaluations?
Given the importance to residents safety and protection of their property, supporting evaluations is a core objective for MWPA. The MWPA works with the local fire departments to help fund the evaluation teams. The MWPA’s role is education and support. Any enforcement of state or local regulations is the sole jurisdiction of your fire agency.
How do I access my report?
Please enter your address at this link and then enter your secure access code. If you lost your code the site will give you a contact form to request it from your local fire department.
Have additional questions or need help?
Contact the Ross Valley Fire Department at: 415 275-1185