Fire Smart Landscapes

February 20, 2026

Fire Smart Landscapes is a research-based educational resource designed to help homeowners reduce wildfire risk through thoughtful landscape design and proactive property management. Developed as part of Nebraska Extension’s Weather-Ready Landscapes initiative, the publication provides clear, actionable guidance for creating defensible space around homes—one of the most effective strategies for improving structure survivability during wildfire events.

The resource begins by explaining the concept of Fire Smart Landscaping: planning ahead for wildfire, managing surrounding vegetation, and creating buffer areas that reduce the likelihood of home ignition. It emphasizes that house survival during wildfire is not random. Research consistently shows that survivability depends on three primary factors: building materials and design, the characteristics of nearby vegetation and fuels, and ongoing maintenance. While weather and topography influence fire behavior, fuels are the one factor homeowners can directly control. This makes landscape management a powerful prevention tool.

The publication outlines Nebraska’s historical wildfire season—typically beginning in mid-February and lasting approximately 13 weeks—reinforcing the importance of preparedness before high-risk conditions arise. It explains how dry conditions, wind, and continuous fuel sources allow fires to spread rapidly, and how strategic plant selection, spacing, and maintenance can interrupt that spread.

A major feature of the resource is detailed guidance on plant spacing. Clear horizontal spacing recommendations are provided based on slope and vegetation type, acknowledging that fire moves more rapidly uphill. Vertical spacing guidance focuses on eliminating “fire ladders” by removing vegetation beneath trees and pruning lower limbs to reduce the chance of flames climbing from ground fuels into tree canopies. The publication also cautions against mass planting shrubs at the base of trees and stresses the importance of leaving space between plant groupings.

At the core of the guide is a three-zone defensible space model:

Zone 0 (0–5 feet from the home) is the Ember-Resistant Zone. The objective is to prevent ignition from wind-blown embers. The resource recommends non-combustible materials such as concrete, brick, gravel, or pavers near foundations and advises against wood mulch, climbing plants, combustible furniture, firewood, fencing, or debris near structures.

Zone 1 (5–30 feet) is the Lean, Clean, and Green Zone. Here, the focus shifts to reducing flame length and heat intensity. Recommendations include well-spaced, low-growing plants, breaking up mulch beds, relocating firewood, and maintaining vegetation by pruning and removing dead plant material.

Zone 2 (30+ feet to property edge) is the Reduce Fuel Zone. This area serves as a transition between managed landscapes and natural vegetation. Emphasis is placed on eliminating dense, continuous fuels and coordinating with neighbors to support access for emergency responders.

The publication concludes with guidance on plant selection, noting that while all plants can burn, those with high moisture content, low oil or resin levels, compact growth habits, and drought tolerance tend to have reduced flammability.

Overall, Fire Smart Landscapes translates wildfire science into practical, homeowner-friendly strategies. By combining research, clear visuals, and step-by-step recommendations, the resource empowers property owners to take proactive measures that protect homes, families, and communities from increasing wildfire risk.