Whether you’re new to Douglas County or just getting settled in, you know that fast-moving wildfires can hit anywhere at any time. Wildfires are the No. 1 natural hazard in Douglas County, which means living in the peace and tranquility of our beautiful natural areas comes with the personal responsibility to mitigate for wildfires.
You can act this spring to protect your home, property, and neighborhood – we can help.
Following a successful launch in 2023, Douglas County is bringing back its Wildfire Mitigation Cost-Share program, which will provide a 50% financial match to homeowners up to $5,000 to help them provide defensible space, reduce hazards and increase community safety and resilience to wildfires. Additionally, the county will contribute up to $25,000 for community projects and encourages adjacent residents to apply together.
The current application period is open from March 20 to April 20, 2024. Projects will be awarded through a competitive application process. Due to limited funding, all projects may not receive funding. Awards are anticipated to be announced in May, and a second application period is anticipated in late summer 2024.
In 2023, Douglas County’s Wildfire Mitigation Cost-Share program aided in reducing wildfire fuels on more than 700 acres across more than 80 properties. This year, the goal is to target more projects and homes within the Wildland Urban Interface, where developed land meets natural habitat.
Learn more about creating defensible space and see real-life examples of wildfire mitigation techniques and tips on our webpage.