Knowledgebase
Pine needles #872626
Asked June 11, 2024, 1:32 PM EDT
Douglas County Colorado
Expert Response
Hi Sue,
You should remove pine needles and any other flammable materials from the area within 5 feet of your home or other structures (including the deck, if applicable); needles further away do not need to be removed; though doing so can reduce the amount of surface fuels available to carry fire closer to structures. It can also negatively impact trees, though, as you note, since the needles act as a mulch.
More information about protecting your home, including handy checklists for the areas both near and further away from your home, can be found in the Colorado State Forest Service document: Home Ignition Zone Guide.
I hope this is helpful!
Cordially,
John