Weed Abatement in Big Bear: How to Prepare for San Bernardino County Fire Inspections

San Bernardino County, through its Fire Hazard Abatement (FHA) program, mandates that properties maintain defensible space by reducing flammable vegetation, weeds, dead branches, and combustible debris. 

Homeowners in the mountain regions (including Big Bear) typically undergo annual inspections each summer.

If your property doesn’t meet the standards by inspection time, the County may issue citations, or even arrange contractors to perform abatement at your cost.

To avoid penalties and keep your property safe, here’s how to get ready.

Steps to Prepare Your Property for Inspection

1. Understand the Rules & Deadlines

• Properties are inspected once per year in the mountain zones. Land Use Services+2Welcome to San Bernardino County+2
• Notices to abate hazards are mailed 30 days before inspections begin. Land Use Services+2Destination Big Bear+2
• Big Bear Fire issues weed abatement notices and provides FAQs on requirements and exemptions. Big Bear Fire Department
• In Big Bear Valley (excluding Fawnskin), Big Bear Fire handles abatement inspections. In Fawnskin, the San Bernardino County Fire Marshal coordinates. Big Bear Fire Department+2Big Bear Fire Department+2

2. Clear Vegetation & Weeds

• Cut weeds and grasses to less than 4 inches in height. Welcome to San Bernardino County+1
• Remove dead plants, underbrush, and debris near structures. Welcome to San Bernardino County+1
• Remove pine needles deeper than 2 inches on the ground around buildings. Welcome to San Bernardino County+1
• Prune trees and shrubs — especially those that pose a ladder effect (branches too low) or are too dense. Welcome to San Bernardino County+2Land Use Services+2
• Remove or space flammable shrubs near structures or roads (manzanita, juniper, etc.). Welcome to San Bernardino County+1

3. Focus on Defensible Space Zones

Properties are often divided into zones:

• Zone 0 / Immediate (0–5 feet from structure): Keep ground bare or use fire-resistant materials, avoid shrubs or flammable plants.
  
• Zone 1 (5–30 feet): Keep vegetation spaced, prune low branches, remove dead plants.
  
• Zone 2 (30–100 feet): Thinner fuel, wider spacing, minimal ground litter.
  

(The exact distances may vary by county / fire district code, so check the local guidelines.)

4. Clean Up Debris & Maintain Structures

• Remove leaf litter, fallen branches, dry logs, dead shrubs.
  
• Check and repair roof valleys, gutters, eaves — clear out pine needles or leaves.
  
• Trim trees so branches are not within 6 feet of the ground (for tall trees). Welcome to San Bernardino County+1
• Remove or relocate stacked firewood, mulch, or other combustible materials away from foundations and structures.
  

5. Optional Pre-Inspection

• Big Bear Fire offers a pre-inspection service (cost is $95) so you can check your property ahead of the official inspection. Big Bear Fire Department
• Use this pre-inspection as a checklist to catch issues before inspectors come.
  

6. Document Your Work

• Take photos before and after cleanup.
  
• Keep receipts for materials, labor, or contractor work.
  
• This documentation can help if there's dispute over compliance or citations.
  

7. Use Qualified Contractors If Needed

• If terrain is steep or the property is large, hiring local contractors experienced with Big Bear weed abatement rules is wise.
  
• Choose those who understand San Bernardino County Fire Hazard Abatement codes so work meets inspection standards.
  

After Inspection: What If You Fail?

• The County may send a notice of violation or citation if deficiencies are found. Big Bear Fire Department+2Land Use Services+2
• If you do not abate within the prescribed time, the county may contract the work and bill you (possibly adding administrative costs). Land Use Services+2Destination Big Bear+2
  
• You’ll want to act quickly to correct issues and avoid escalating costs.
  

Why This Matters

• Wildfire risk in mountain communities is high; defensible space is one of the most effective mitigations.
  
• Inspectors will zero in on defensible zones and fuel close to structures.
  
• Compliance avoids penalties and ensures your property is safer in fire season.