The issue seemed to be homeowners ability to provide fire defensible space around their homes was hampered by bureaucratic complexity and restrictions.
Bureaucratic comments since the fire indicate the truth of that charge.
Too bad it took a tragedy to discover it.
Editorial: Beyond the blame game
Tahoe agencies examine conflicting rules
Published 12:00 am PDT Tuesday, July 10, 2007
To hear some radio hosts and politicians tell it, the blaze that recently destroyed 250 South Lake Tahoe homes was solely the work of bureaucrats…
….Given the vitriol they have encountered, it would be understandable if Singlaub and Singer were tempted to retrench or quit. Neither appears to be doing so. Both say they are taking a hard look at their agencies' policies to minimize erosion and preserve scenic values and see if these rules conflict with the demands of fire protection.
Both have some work to do. For several years, the TRPA and other agencies have encouraged property owners to follow landscaping guidelines (www.trpa.org) for "defensible space" against wildfires. Their guidelines urge thinning of trees within 100 to 200 feet of structures, with virtually no flammable vegetation within 30 feet.
Yet at the same time, the TRPA requires property owners to obtain a four-page, $53 permit when cutting trees larger than 6 inches in diameter. Clearly, these two goals are in conflict. To reconcile them, the agency should free homeowners from permit requirements within the 30-foot zone of their property, and set a larger diameter limit within the 100-foot zone.
