AUSTIN, Texas — As strong winds and dry conditions continue to rattle Central Texas, the Austin Fire Department has created a tool to help mitigate the risk of wildfires around your home or property.
The Do It Yourself Structure Ignition Zone Evaluation is a guide on the three different zones around a property and explains how to make small adjustments to prevent a wildfire from starting.
We would all appreciate a spring break from these high winds! Until that happens, wildfire risk remains high.
Harden your property against risk with the free Austin Fire DIY tool that provides guidance on what to do right now to protect your property: https://t.co/ouPLgp9idM pic.twitter.com/BImytYlHl4
— Austin Fire Dept (@austinfiredept) March 16, 2026
The three zones include the immediate, noncombustible zone located 0-5 feet from a structure; the intermediate zone 5-30 feet from a structure; and the extended zone 30-100 feet from a structure.
The immediate zone — which extends both horizontally and vertically — acts as a buffer to help prevent embers from getting near flammable materials or one’s property. During high fire danger days, Austin Fire recommends moving any items within the immediate zone at least 5 feet away from one’s property, or store them in a closed structure.
Replacing combustible mulch with noncombustible materials like gravel, pavers or concrete and removing dead vegetation and trimming trees can also help mitigate risks.
Outside of that zone, it’s recommended to trim grass to 4 inches or less and store wood piles and any liquid propane gas or fuel tanks at least 30 feet from a property. Vertically, roofs and rain gutters should remain clear of debris.
Austin Fire is also offering a DIY size evaluation form for people to conduct their own size evaluations for their property and submit to AFD Wildfire here.
See the full DIY Structure Ignition Zone Evaluation guide here: