Residential Chipping Program

Geographic Scope: Modoc County, California

The Modoc Fire Safe Council implements the Residential Chipping Program during fire season with support from federal, state, and local grant funding. This program encourages homeowners to take proactive steps in creating defensible space by clearing brush 30–100 feet from buildings and 20 feet from roads. MFSC assists by chipping slash piles generated from homeowners' fuel-reduction efforts.

Program Availability: Annual operation between June 1 and October 31, depending on funding availability

Eligibility

• Open to: All Modoc County homeowners
• Cost Share: Requires 50% cost share from participants
• Requirement: Participants must have a residence on the property

Pile Placement Guidelines

To ensure safe and efficient chipping:

• Place piles along road or driveway frontages for safe contractor access
• Do not block roadways or access routes
• Keep piles at least 10 feet away from power poles
• Ensure chipper and truck can turn around safely
• Place piles within 5–6 feet of chipper access, preferably uphill from the road

Stacking Requirements

• Piles no taller than 4 feet
• Stack with cut ends facing the same direction toward the access route
• Freshly cut materials chip best; old, dry piles may not be accepted
• Chipper can handle material up to 10 inches in diameter

Materials Accepted

• Freshly cut branches and brush

Materials NOT Accepted

• Roots, stumps, rocks, dirt, mud
• Poison oak, vines, spiny plants (roses, blackberries)
• Scotch/French broom, gorse (to prevent seed spread)
• Nails, wires, or metal pieces
• Construction wood (fence posts, 2x4s)
• Needles, leaves, or grass rakings

Contact:

• Modoc Fire Safe Council
• 114 E North Street, Alturas, CA 96101
• Telephone: (530) 233-5516
• Website: modocfiresafecouncil.org

How to Apply

1. Review the full Residential Chipping Program guidelines
2. Complete the Residential Chipping Program Request Form (PDF available)
3. Mail the completed form to:
   • Modoc Fire Safe Council
   • 114 E North Street, Alturas, CA 96101
4. Alternative: Call (530) 233-5516 for assistance

Required Documents

• Residential Chipping Program Request and Authorization Form (2025 version available in PDF and DOCX formats)
• Volunteer Time Sheet (if applicable; 2024 version referenced)

Note: Application deadline not specified; applications accepted during program operating period (June 1 - October 31) depending on funding availability.