City offers chipping services to reduce wildfire risk
Program targets wildfire fuel reduction efforts
– A hazardous fuel reduction chipping program will return to Atascadero in 2026 following the award of grant funding from the San Luis Obispo County Fire Safe Council.
Atascadero Fire & Emergency Services received the funds to offer the chipping program to eligible properties located within city limits and identified on the Wildland Urban Interface fire area map. Registration for the program is now open, and chipping services are scheduled to begin March 26.
The program allows residents to reduce wildfire risk by disposing of eligible vegetation through chipping. All material must be piled near a road or driveway and be easily accessible.
Branches must be stacked with cut ends facing the same direction. Branch diameter may be up to 5 inches round, with lengths not exceeding 15 feet. Piles must be free of household trash, processed lumber, poison oak, oleander, and vine-type vegetation, which can jam the chipper.
Residents may register online at chipperday.com or call (805) 470-3300 for additional information. More information on wildfire safety, backyard burning, weed abatement, and chipping is available at atascadero.org/fd.
