Cost share for prescribed burns

The Vegetation Management Program (VMP) is a cost-sharing program that encourages the use of prescribed fire to control unwanted brush and other vegetation which creates wildfire hazards. Besides decreasing wildland fire potential, burning can improve wildlife habitat and watershed values.

Private landowners—individually or in groups—enter into a contract with CDF to develop a management plan with consideration of follow-up treatments to enhance the effects of the burn.

CDF covers the liability, plans for, and conducts the burn. In the event the fire escapes, the State acts as leader and agrees to hold the landowner harmless.

The landowner pays a percentage of the cost of the burn based on the benefits accrued to the landowner and the benefits to the public in general. Cost also varies depending on the size and complexity of the burn.

Implementation of VMP projects is done by Ranger Units. Priority is given to those projects that fit within a unit’s priority areas (e.g., those identified through the Fire Plan) and those considered to be of most value to the unit.

For more information on this program, contact your local CDF Ranger Unit.