Deschutes County has experienced over 40 significant wildfires in the past decade. The combination of dense juniper stands, prolonged drought, and expanding WUI (Wildland-Urban Interface) development means the risk to residential properties is at an all-time high.
The City of Bend's R327 fire hardening code (effective May 15, 2026) addresses building materials on new construction. But the landscape surrounding those homes — the junipers, manzanita, and dry grass — remains the primary ignition risk. Defensible space landscaping is the essential complement that R327 doesn't cover.
The Oregon Fire Marshal's Office is actively drafting a statewide defensible space ordinance expected for local adoption in late 2026. Properties that act now avoid rushed, more expensive compliance projects when codes take effect — and more importantly, they're protected during the fire seasons between now and then.
Effective defensible space is built in three concentric zones around your home, each with specific vegetation management requirements.
We believe in transparent pricing. These are typical ranges for Central Oregon properties — your free site assessment will include a detailed written estimate.
Prices are typical ranges for Deschutes County. Final pricing depends on property size, access, vegetation density, and scope. All estimates are provided in writing after a free site assessment.
The City of Bend's R327 fire hardening code (effective May 15, 2026) is a building code — it governs construction materials on new residential construction. It requires fire-resistant siding, noncombustible gutters, ember-resistant vents, and tempered windows.
R327 says nothing about the landscape surrounding homes. A new home built to R327 standards is still surrounded by the same juniper trees, manzanita, and dry grass that make Central Oregon properties vulnerable. If the vegetation within 30 feet ignites, the home is still at serious risk — regardless of R327 compliance.
The Oregon Fire Marshal's Office is drafting a statewide defensible space ordinance expected for local adoption in late 2026. Project Wildfire (80+ Deschutes County communities) is actively pushing Bend, Redmond, and La Pine to adopt landscape-side codes. Properties that act now avoid rushed, more expensive compliance projects when codes take effect.
We'll visit your property, assess your defensible space zones, identify high-risk vegetation, and provide a detailed written estimate — at no charge.
Prefer to call? (541) 617-8873