Eucalyptus Program
Panoramic Hills Mitigation Area • Grizzly Peak Mitigation Area • Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone • High Fire Hazard Severity Zone
The Eucalyptus Understory Cleanup Program offers residents a free one-time service to clear the understory of eucalyptus trees on private property. This includes removing dead and dried leaf and bark litter, stripping shedding bark from tree trunks, and trimming the lower limbs of trees. These efforts significantly reduce the risk of wildfires spreading into the tree canopy and brings properties into compliance with the defensible space requirements of the Berkeley Fire Code and best practices.
The program does not offer the removal of mature trees but will accomplish the following for participating residents:
Removal of dead and dried leaf and bark litter under/around eucalyptus trees
Strip-shedding bark from the trunks of trees
The program runs from August 2024- July 2026.The duration will depend on available funds and need.The Eucalyptus program will remain active contingent upon available funding.
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What happens after I fill out this application?
This application asks for basic information and images. If a recent defensible space inspection that encompasses the entire property is not on record, one will be performed: the inspection drives the program. Inspectors will need to access your entire property (exterior) to conduct a thorough inspection. The timeline is based on the amount of funding available and the number of applications received. Any remaining applications will be put on hold and wait for additional funding and contractor availability.
I don't have internet access, where can I get a copy of this application to fill out?
You can call the Wildland Urban Interface Division at (510) 981-5620 and we can mail one to you, or you can pick one up at Fire Department Headquarters: 2100 Martin Luther King Jr Way, Berkeley, CA 94704. Ask for the Eucalyptus Mitigation Program application. This will be done upon request.
I don't feel comfortable with BFD taking photos of my property. Can I participate without having photos taken?
Photos are a non-negotiable part of the program for all residents. Staff will take pictures, but photos will not include any personally identifiable information.
Is this a permanent solution?
It is important to note that the work WILL NOT permanently remove the hazard caused by Eucalyptus. The work will have to be repeated/maintained by the homeowner in the future to remain in compliance with the fire code unless the trees are voluntarily removed by the homeowner.
Who approves and prioritizes the work?
The approval and prioritization of work will be at the sole discretion of the Berkeley Fire Department. Projects will be scheduled in the order that they benefit the community's overall wildfire risk.
Can I hire my own landscaper or do the work myself and be reimbursed?
You can complete the work yourself, but the City cannot reimburse you. If you wish to have the City pay for the work it must be performed by a City contractor.
I don't own my home, can I still apply? How is the property owner involved?
You must be the property owner or an authorized agent of the property owner in order to apply. You self-certify that you hold this role or authority when you sign the participation agreement.
Can BFD remove my Eucalyptus tree?
Mature, healthy trees cannot be removed as a part of this program. -
For more information download our Eucalyptus Program Factsheet.
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