As wildfire season approaches, homeowners and residents in San Bernardino County’s Third District who have cleared vegetation or brush around their homes can take advantage of free wood-chipping programs to help reduce fire risk. These services are offered by San Bernardino County Fire, Cal Fire, and local Fire Safe Councils.
Local Fire Safe Councils are also expanding curbside chipping options this season, giving residents in multiple communities a convenient way to dispose of trimmed vegetation without leaving home. These programs require advance registration and are offered on a limited, first-come basis, so early sign-up is encouraged. Current opportunities include:
- Yucaipa & Oak Glen: Monthly curbside chipping is available on the second Monday of each month, with the next registration deadline on May 7 and service beginning May 11. Additional deadlines are scheduled for June 11, July 9, August 6, and September 10. Each cycle is limited to the first 15 properties, and residents must register separately for each round.
- Rim Communities: Curbside chipping will be offered twice monthly through September. Upcoming registration deadlines include May 17 and 31, June 14 and 28, July 12 and 26, August 16 and 30, and September 13 and 27.
- Big Bear Area: Monthly curbside chipping is available, with registration deadlines on May 17, June 14, July 12, August 16, and September 13.
Registration for the 2026 season is now open at firesafenow.org.
In addition, San Bernardino County Fire is offering community chipping opportunities to help residents clear hazardous vegetation and improve defensible space. The first scheduled event will take place in Angelus Oaks on May 3, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., with curbside chipping available for properly prepared brush piles. Residents are reminded that only clean green waste is allowed—no trash or lumber will be accepted. Additional chipping events are expected to be scheduled in other mountain communities in the coming months. For the latest updates and more information, residents are encouraged to visit San Bernardino County Fire’s website.