Homeowners in Moraga and Orinda could soon be subject to some of the most stringent defensible space rules in the country.
The rules are being proposed by the Moraga-Orinda Fire Protection District and would require homeowners to uproot plants, take down wood fencing and remove all other combustible materials within five feet of structures.
“There are many ways to prevent fire hazards. I don’t know why they’re wasting time to pass this kind of policy. It’s ridiculous,” said Karen Chang.
Chang told us she strongly opposes the new proposals. She says, if they’re enacted, she worries about how much money it might cost her family.
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“Not only money, also time. Who has the time, unless it’s retired people? But retired people don’t have enough strength,” Chang said.
The fire district says it’s anticipating pushback from some members of the community.
However, Chief Dave Winnacker says keeping the status quo is not an option.