The grant could help with the bill. Paying that bill too early could create a problem.

That’s the detail worth knowing about the San Elijo Hills Fire Safe Council’s Zone 0 Vegetation Removal Grant.

Qualifying homeowners may receive $750–$2,250 in reimbursements for eligible removal of trees and combustible vegetation within five feet of their homes.

Applications close Saturday, October 31, 2026.

The total program pool is $7,500. Homeowners must contribute at least a dollar for every grant dollar awarded toward eligible costs.

Helpful funding—with homework attached.

Read This Before Paying a Deposit

The published rules exclude invoices reflecting payments made before the scheduled November 15, 2026 award announcement.

Before handing a contractor a deposit, ask the council how that restriction applies.

This is reimbursement funding. Selected homeowners complete approved work, then submit documentation for payment.

For an illustrative $1,500 award, the homeowner must contribute at least another $1,500 toward eligible costs. That means at least $3,000 in eligible work.

The example explains the match. It does not promise an award.

Selection considers wildfire risk, project scope and homeowner need. Awards are competitive, not first-come, first-served.

The Estimate Comes First

Applicants need a proposal or estimate from a tree or vegetation-management vendor before applying.

The application instructs homeowners to email that estimate to info@sehfsc.org when submitting their form.

Any licensed contractor may be used. The council’s suggested vendors are optional.

Selected applicants must submit receipts and before-and-after photographs after completing approved work. The work and documentation deadline is March 30, 2027.

An application is a request for funding—not approval to assume every expense will be covered.

Check the Boundary

Eligible properties must be owner-occupied and within the council’s boundaries.

Qualifying considerations include financial need or fixed income, senior or disabled homeowner status, veteran status, canyon-rim or CAL FIRE Strategic Project Area location, and high-risk vegetation within Zone 0.

Homeowners pursuing Wildfire Prepared Home designation are also encouraged to apply.

The council’s community wildfire plan encompasses San Elijo Hills, Venzano, Old Creek Ranch and Questhaven Hills. Confirm your specific address rather than relying on a neighborhood name.

Council directors, officers, selection-committee members, volunteers and their immediate households are ineligible.

Why Five Feet Gets the Attention

Zone 0 is the area within five feet of the home.

Research from the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety found that vegetation in this area can increase heat exposure and amplify wildfire damage—even when well-watered.

That supports the grant’s focus. It does not mean every plant must automatically go or that vegetation removal guarantees protection.

Questions Before You Apply:

When do applications close?

October 31, 2026. The published materials do not specify a closing time.

How much assistance is available?

Competitive reimbursements of $750–$2,250, with a minimum dollar-for-dollar homeowner match toward eligible costs.

Can I pay for work before awards are announced?

The rules exclude invoices reflecting payments before November 15, 2026. Clarify deposits and timing first.

Where can homeowners ask questions?

Email info@sehfsc.org. For San Marcos defensible-space inspection requests, call 760-744-1050, extension 2409. Inspections and grant approval are separate processes.