Getting Ready for Wildfire

Cal Fire Announces Major Grant Funding for Wildfire Prevention

California is investing $70 million in new grant funding for community-focused wildfire prevention and resilience projects across the state, officials announced during Wildfire Preparedness Week. The funding, supported by Proposition 4's climate bond, aims to reduce wildfire risk and strengthen community preparedness through locally-led initiatives.

The Santa Barbara Independent reported that as part of this year's wildfire preparedness campaign, Cal Fire detailed its Wildfire Prevention Grants Program to provide financial support for projects that reduce destructive wildfire potential in high-risk communities.

"By investing in locally driven prevention projects, we are reducing risks today while building long-term resilience," said Frank Bigelow, Cal Fire's Deputy Director of Community Wildfire Preparedness and Mitigation.

Santa Barbara County's Ongoing Wildfire Resilience Efforts

Santa Barbara County has been actively securing federal and state grants to bolster local wildfire prevention. The Santa Barbara County Fire Safe Council has received $12.1 million across 11 grants since 2021, including a recent $2.3 million award for their "Resilient Firewise Communities" program through 2030.

The county currently operates 18 Firewise USA communities and has launched several prevention programs this year, including the neighborhood chipping program that began April 6th. The free curbside chipping service helps homeowners create defensible space within a 100-foot perimeter around properties in Very High Fire Severity Zones.

Grant Program Details and Application Process

The new Cal Fire grant program provides up to $950,000 per project for up to three years of work. Applications are due by 3:00 p.m. on July 8, 2026, with projects funded through California's Climate Bond (Proposition 4).

Eligible activities include hazardous fuels reduction, wildfire prevention planning, and community education programs. The grants target public agencies, nonprofits, tribes, and Fire Safe Councils, with priority given to projects benefiting disadvantaged communities and those demonstrating carbon reduction benefits.

Cal Fire has awarded more than $566 million in wildfire prevention grants to over 575 projects statewide over the past six years.

Local Preparedness Requirements and Resources

In high-risk areas throughout Santa Barbara County, homeowners are required to maintain "defensible space" safety buffers around residences and outbuildings. Property owners can arrange free inspections through local firehouses or the Santa Barbara County Fire Safe Council.

For those undertaking remodeling or new construction, "home hardening" measures can provide additional protection against flying embers and intense heat. These advanced techniques include specialized attic and crawlspace venting, fireproofing finishes for exposed wood, and heat-resistant insulation.

Residents can sign up for ReadySBC alerts and access wildfire preparedness resources through the Santa Barbara County Fire Safe Council and Cal Fire's Ready for Wildfire program.