CRESCENT CITY — Creating defensible space around homes is one of the most effective ways residents can protect their families, property, and communities from wildfire. In early May, Caltrans District 1, the Humboldt–Del Norte Unit of CAL FIRE, the Del Norte County Fairgrounds, and the Crescent City Fire Department are partnering to make that process easier and free.
For two days only, residents will be able to dispose of woody debris at no cost during “Defensible Space Disposal Day.” Removing excess vegetation can be time-consuming and costly, and disposal fees or concerns about escaped burn piles can prevent residents from completing important cleanup work. This event provides a safe and convenient option for disposing of woody vegetation while creating defensible space around homes.
Each branch, shrub, or pile of brush removed helps reduce the fuel available to a wildfire. When entire neighborhoods take action together, the impact can significantly reduce wildfire risk across the community.
Defensible Space Disposal Day will take place Saturday, May 2, and Sunday, May 3, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Del Norte County Fairgrounds, located at 421 U.S. 101 in Crescent City. Participants should enter on Williams Drive south of the CAL FIRE station. The event is free for Del Norte County residents.
Accepted materials include woody vegetation such as shrubs, brush, limbs, small trees, and clean stumps. Construction materials, treated lumber or plywood, grass, trash, and soil will not be accepted. All loads must be properly secured and covered before transport. Residents should ensure loads are fully covered with tarps or cargo nets, remove loose material before driving, avoid overloading vehicles, and properly secure large items to prevent debris from falling onto roadways.
What: A green waste disposal event
Where: Del Norte County Fairgrounds, 421 U.S. 101, Crescent City
When: Saturday, May 2 and Sunday, May 3, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Admission: Free
Contact:
Brenda Rose
Caltrans District 1 Adopt-A-Highway Coordinator
(707) 572-7266
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