Protect your home from wildfire through brush collection

By Paul Bestgen

Wildfires can start suddenly and spread very fast. They often begin near neighborhoods, which puts many homes at risk. Clearing brush and thick vegetation around your property is one of the best ways to protect your home. With a few simple steps, you can lower your wildfire risk.

• Clear leaves and debris from gutters, the roof, and under decks

• Trim branches so they are at least 10 feet away from your roof

• Keep your grass short and watered when you can

• Move flammable items like firewood or outdoor furniture at least 5 feet from your home

On-demand brush collection

City of Austin residential curbside customers can schedule up to three collections of large branches and tree limbs each year at no extra cost. Scheduling your on-demand brush collection takes only a few minutes in the Austin Recycles app. You can also schedule online or call 3-1-1 for help.

You will receive an email once your appointment is confirmed. A second reminder email will arrive a few days before your pickup. Make sure your brush is set at the curb by 5:30 a.m. on your appointment day and follows the set-out guidelines.

Composting collection

Small branches can go in your composting collection. They must be no longer than five feet and no thicker than three inches. If branches do not fit in your green cart with the lid closed, stack them in small, easy-to-carry piles. A simple rule is: if you can’t lift the pile, a crew member may not be able to lift it either.

Crews will collect up to 15 extra items placed beside your green cart. Each lawn and leaf bag or pile of small branches counts as one item.

Wildfire prevention resources

Your home can still be at risk even when a wildfire is not close by. Embers—small burning pieces of wood or vegetation—cause up to 90 percent of home fires during wildfires. Embers can travel more than a mile in the wind and enter homes through exterior vents.

The City of Austin offers many tools to help you reduce your wildfire risk through the Austin Wildfire Hub. A wildfire mitigation specialist can visit your home for a free Structure Ignition Zone Evaluation (ZONE). They will walk around your property with you and share tips to help protect your home. A do-it-yourself option is also available. 
 
By removing brush, you protect your home and help make our community safer. Schedule your on‑demand brush pickup today and take an important step toward wildfire prevention.