Montecito is a Firewise Community

What is Firewise?

Firewise USA is a recognition program managed by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). The program provides a collaborative framework for a community to become informed of wildfire danger and collectively reduce wildfire risk. Our local Santa Barbara County Fire Safe Council has been instrumental in helping communities through the Firewise recognition process. 

What is required of a community to become Firewise?

To become recognized as a Firewise community, a wildfire risk assessment is developed and an action plan is built to reduce that risk. Montecito Fire Department recently developed several guiding documents, specifically the Community Wildfire Protection Plan, that informed this process.  

Montecito Fire Department is primarily funded by Montecito residents’ property taxes. The department invests approximately $500,000 each year in wildfire mitigation projects. These funds, projects, and community education outreach meet the additional requirements of the Firewise certification process. 

What are the benefits of being a Firewise community?

There are multiple benefits of being a Firewise-certified community, including increased access to grant funding, increased community connection, and potential benefits from insurance companies.

Which Montecito Firewise community am I in?

There are parcel limitations necessary to be part of a Firewise community – a minimum of 8 parcels and a maximum of 2,500 are the identified requirements. Montecito is comprised of  4,163 parcels and met this requirement by using Highway 192 as the geographic boundary between the two Firewise sites: Montecito North and Montecito South.

How can I get my Firewise certificate?

Firewise certificates for Montecito North and South are available to view, download and print below. 

Will being in a Firewise community impact my insurance?

Recent evidence suggests that residents of Firewise USA sites are less likely to see “non-renewal” letters and may even receive a discounted rate from their current insurer, including the California Fair Plan. Discounts and eligibility differ by company. We urge you to contact your provider to see what benefits you may be able to receive.

How can I get more involved with wildfire mitigation in our community?

There are many meaningful ways to get involved in wildfire mitigation and help make our community more resilient:

• Attend Community Meetings: These meetings are a great way to stay informed, ask questions, and learn about local efforts. They also provide an opportunity to connect with neighbors and first responders before an emergency happens, which is a key part of preparedness. 
  • Please join us for our annual Wildfire Preparedness Community Meeting!
  • June 26, 2025
  • 6 p.m. 
  • Montecito Union School, 385 San Ysidro Road
• Connect with Your Neighborhood: Some neighborhoods have taken the initiative to organize grassroots wildfire preparedness meetings and events. These gatherings help build relationships, share resources, and spark collaboration on mitigation efforts. If you’re interested in starting something similar in your area, please reach out to us to help you start the process. Email info@montecitofire.com or use the contact form below. 
• Participate in the Neighborhood Chipping Program: Each year, we expanded this program to include more neighborhoods based on interest and need. If your area isn’t currently part of the program but would like to be, contact us! Email info@montecitofire.com or use the contact form below. 
• Create and maintain Defensible Space: The cornerstone of community wildfire preparedness is for every property owner to maintain defensible space. Learn more about defensible space and reach out to schedule a complimentary Defensible Space Survey of your property with one of our Wildland Fire Specialists. 
• Explore the Home Hardening Assistance Program: Home hardening is one of the most impactful steps a homeowner can take to reduce wildfire risk. That’s why we dedicate funding to help residents make essential upgrades like replacing wood fencing, retrofitting vents, and improving other areas of the home. Learn more about our Home Hardening Assistance Program and apply online.
  • Apply for the Home Hardening Assistance Program

Your involvement helps strengthen the safety of our entire community. Whether starting with your own home, talking to neighbors, or attending a meeting, every action makes a difference.