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Does a defensible space require a large area of bare ground around my home?

Last Updated: September 24, 2009

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No. The term “defensible space” may make you envision a large expanse of bare ground surrounding your home. While this is certainly effective at increasing home survivability, it may be unappealing for aesthetic reasons and it may contribute to soil erosion. Fortunately, it is also unnecessary. Through proper planning, a homeowner can have both an effective defensible space and an attractive landscape.

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