Some homes on, near hillsides in Palm Springs at greater risk from wildfires; inspections urged

As the sweltering summer months loom on the horizon, so does a common threat for Southern California residents: fire season. And some Palm Springs neighborhoods may be subject to extra inspections because they are located in wildfire hazard zones.

Driving the news: Palm Springs Fire Marshal Taylor Teeple recently informed residents who live in various neighborhoods positioned close to the mountains that they are in “very high fire hazard severity” zones.

Why it matters: Homeowners living in these zones are responsible for maintaining the vegetation on their property to prevent wildfires, and are also subject to fire inspections.

• Rules outlined by the state of California and the city say that all native brush, weeds, grass, trees and other vegetation within 200 feet of any structure must be maintained according to guidelines found here.

The goal: Fire officials say vegetation management is a major factor in reducing the chances of buildings near wildlands catching fire.

Details: Check out this interactive map to see if your home is in one of these areas. Click the binocular icon, then type in your home address. 

• The city’s website provides more information about vegetation management and will help you schedule an inspection. According to the city’s fee schedule, the inspection costs $100 for a single-family residence.

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