"Brush" is the predominant native plant community in the canyons of Southern California. When adjacent to homes, brush management is required to protect the homes from wildfire. In February 2008, the Fire-Rescue Department expanded the Proactive Brush Management Program City wide. Door to door brush inspections are conducted of properties on canyon rim that have been identified in Proactive Brush Management program. Inspections of properties that are not within the program are performed on a complaint basis only.

Review the following information on canyon fire safety, then, if merited, contact the Fire Hazard Advisor to make a brush management complaint at 619-533-4444.

• 2016 Brush Management video
• Erosion Control
• Annual Weed Abatement Vacant Lot Program
• Definitions
• Ready, Set, Go! Wildland Action Guide
• Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones
• Frequently Asked Questions

Canyon Fire Safety

2018 Brush Management Video

The City of San Diego Use of Goats for Brush Management Guide (PDF) summarizes guidelines for the use of goats to maintain canyon brush.

Further information on the City of San Diego Brush Management Policy and Landscape Standards (PDF) was issued in June 2008 and revised in May 2010.
For alternative compliance requirements please see Brush Mitigation Zones.

Information on fire resistant plants is available in the "Landscape Technical Manual." Contact City Publications at 619-446-5200.

Enforcement of brush management is based upon Municipal Code Section 142.0412 - Brush Management (page 25).