ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Defensible Space Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Dudek

Fire Protection Planner

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$85K - $140K/yr

Familiarity with state and local building, development, and defensible space codes and standards is ... ICC or CASFM Fire Inspector, Plans Examiner, Fire Investigator, Fire Marshal Certification * NFPA ...

Dudek

Fire Protection Planner

Mission Viejo, CA

$85K - $140K/yr

Familiarity with state and local building, development, and defensible space codes and standards is ... ICC or CASFM Fire Inspector, Plans Examiner, Fire Investigator, Fire Marshal Certification * NFPA ...

Dudek

Fire Protection Planner

Encinitas, CA · On-site

$85K - $140K/yr

Familiarity with state and local building, development, and defensible space codes and standards is ... ICC or CASFM Fire Inspector, Plans Examiner, Fire Investigator, Fire Marshal Certification * NFPA ...

Dudek

Fire Protection Planner

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$85K - $140K/yr

Familiarity with state and local building, development, and defensible space codes and standards is ... ICC or CASFM Fire Inspector, Plans Examiner, Fire Investigator, Fire Marshal Certification * NFPA ...

Dudek

Fire Protection Planner

Oakland, CA

$85K - $140K/yr

Familiarity with state and local building, development, and defensible space codes and standards is ... ICC or CASFM Fire Inspector, Plans Examiner, Fire Investigator, Fire Marshal Certification * NFPA ...

Dudek

Fire Protection Planner

Mission Viejo, CA · On-site

$85K - $140K/yr

Familiarity with state and local building, development, and defensible space codes and standards is ... ICC or CASFM Fire Inspector, Plans Examiner, Fire Investigator, Fire Marshal Certification * NFPA ...

Dudek

Fire Protection Planner

Mission Viejo, CA · On-site

$85K - $140K/yr

Familiarity with state and local building, development, and defensible space codes and standards is ... ICC or CASFM Fire Inspector, Plans Examiner, Fire Investigator, Fire Marshal Certification * NFPA ...

Dudek

Fire Protection Planner

Auburn, CA · On-site

$85K - $140K/yr

Familiarity with state and local building, development, and defensible space codes and standards is ... ICC or CASFM Fire Inspector, Plans Examiner, Fire Investigator, Fire Marshal Certification * NFPA ...

Dudek

Fire Protection Planner

San Diego, CA

$85K - $140K/yr

Familiarity with state and local building, development, and defensible space codes and standards is ... ICC or CASFM Fire Inspector, Plans Examiner, Fire Investigator, Fire Marshal Certification * NFPA ...

Dudek

Fire Protection Planner

Oakland, CA · On-site

$85K - $140K/yr

Familiarity with state and local building, development, and defensible space codes and standards is ... ICC or CASFM Fire Inspector, Plans Examiner, Fire Investigator, Fire Marshal Certification * NFPA ...

Dudek

Fire Protection Planner

Oakland, CA · On-site

$85K - $140K/yr

Familiarity with state and local building, development, and defensible space codes and standards is ... ICC or CASFM Fire Inspector, Plans Examiner, Fire Investigator, Fire Marshal Certification * NFPA ...

Hall and Hall

Centennial Valley Manager Couple

Lima, MT · On-site

Conduct and schedule inspections as required (electrical, alarm systems, HVAC, water, septic, roofs ... Fire mitigation (fuel reduction, defensible space), flood response, backup generators as required ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDefensible Space Inspector Jobs

Defensible Space Inspector information

See salary details

$24.5K

$54.9K

$99K

How much do defensible space inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for defensible space inspector in the United States is $54,939.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $63,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the 5 foot rule in California?

The 5 foot rule in California refers to maintaining a minimum distance of five feet between structures and vegetation to create defensible space, which helps reduce wildfire risk. As a Defensible Space Inspector, you assess properties to ensure this clearance is maintained around homes and other structures, often following local fire safety regulations and guidelines. Proper clearance is a key part of wildfire mitigation efforts and may involve inspecting vegetation, debris, and other combustible materials within this zone.

What kind of inspectors make the most money?

In general, inspectors with specialized skills, certifications, or experience tend to earn higher salaries. For example, building, electrical, or fire inspectors often make more than general inspectors, especially when working in high-risk or complex environments. Salary levels can also increase with advanced training, supervisory roles, or working in regions with higher living costs.

Are fire inspector jobs in demand?

Fire inspector jobs, including defensible space inspectors, are generally in demand due to increasing wildfire risks and the need for fire prevention and safety assessments. Employment opportunities are often available in local government agencies, requiring knowledge of fire codes, safety standards, and sometimes certification. The job outlook is expected to grow as communities prioritize wildfire mitigation and fire safety measures.

What qualifications do I need to become a fire inspector?

To become a fire inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience in firefighting or emergency services. Many jurisdictions require certification such as the Fire Inspector I or II from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and some positions may require a valid driver's license and knowledge of fire codes and inspection procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Defensible Space Inspector position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Defensible Space Inspector, you need a solid understanding of fire prevention principles, vegetation management, hazard assessment, and relevant safety codes or regulations, often supported by specialized training or certification. Familiarity with GIS mapping software, inspection reporting tools, and mobile data collection systems is commonly required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to educate property owners make candidates stand out. These skills are vital for accurately assessing fire risks, documenting compliance, and fostering community safety through effective collaboration and outreach.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Defensible Space Inspector?

As a Defensible Space Inspector, your typical day involves traveling to residential and commercial properties to assess landscaping, structures, and other elements for compliance with fire safety regulations. You will document findings, create detailed inspection reports, and sometimes use digital tools to map areas and track compliance. Inspectors frequently interact with property owners to educate them about defensible space requirements and recommend necessary improvements. This role is highly field-based and often requires independent work, but you may also collaborate closely with fire prevention teams, local agencies, and community members to enhance overall fire safety.

What is a Defensible Space Inspector job?

A Defensible Space Inspector evaluates properties to ensure they meet fire safety regulations by maintaining defensible space around structures. They inspect vegetation, combustible materials, and other hazards that could contribute to wildfire spread. Inspectors educate property owners on compliance requirements and recommend necessary changes. Their work helps reduce wildfire risks and improve community safety.

More about Defensible Space Inspector jobs
What cities are hiring for Defensible Space Inspector jobs? Cities with the most Defensible Space Inspector job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Defensible Space Inspector jobs? The most popular types of Defensible Space Inspector jobs are:
What states have the most Defensible Space Inspector jobs? States with the most job openings for Defensible Space Inspector jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Defensible Space Inspector jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Defensible Space Inspector jobs are:
Defensible Space Inspector jobs near you

Wildfire Mitigation Specialist

Douglas County Sheriff's Office

Castle Rock, CO • On-site

$62K - $93K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Wildfire Mitigation Specialist
Employment Type: 0 - Full-time Regular
Pay Range: $62,092.00 - 93,138.00
Location: Castle Rock, CO
Elected Office / Department: SHERIFF
Job Number: req3118
Closing Date: 3/21/2026
The Wildfire Mitigation Specialist conducts defensiblespace and Home Ignition Zone inspections, ensuring compliance with Countyregulations, building codes, and mitigation standards. The position reviewsdevelopment proposals, coordinates with internal departments, fire districts,developers, and community partners to support wildfire-planning efforts, publicoutreach, and hazard assessments. Responsibilities also include wildfiremitigation grants and Cost-Share programs support, interdepartmental coordinationfor wildfire risk reduction, and supporting related natural-resource projects.
Generally, the hiring range is $62,092-$77,615 annually.Qualifications, education and experience as it relates to the position will betaken into consideration when determining hiring salary.
Your future is important to us.
Douglas County offers a comprehensive benefits package - including medical,dental, vision, and retirement plans - plus a wide range of additionalresources to support your health, growth, and overall well-being.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: (Thefollowing examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be allinclusive.)
  • Conduct on-site Home Ignition Zone (HIZ) assessments and inspections; verify that mitigation work meets county or agency standards, communicate corrections, approve completed work, and document results in the relevant database or permitting system.
  • Coordinate and collaborate with county departments, fire protection districts, planning/zoning, community groups, and other agencies to integrate wildfire mitigation into planning, land use, and outreach programs.
  • Support wildfire planning efforts, including community wildfire protection plans (CWPPs), public meetings, wildfire hazard rating systems, and integration of wildfire mitigation into land use and building code development.
  • Assist in grant development and administration, including writing grant proposals, tracking budgets, and reporting, to secure additional funding for wildfire mitigation and forest restoration.
  • Assist in the facilitation of County grant programs, including reviewing applicant proposals, awarding funding, coordinating with contractors and property owners to implement treatments, verifying project completion, and signing off on final deliverables.
  • Perform preliminary and final defensible space and wildfire-mitigation inspections for all proposed residential projects in the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI); verify compliance with County building regulations related to fuel loading and home-ignition-zone treatments.
  • Develop and deliver public education and outreach-including workshops, Firewise trainings, and community meetings-and coordinate with homeowners, HOAs, builders, developers, and fire districts to increase awareness of wildfire hazards, mitigation practices, and forest health.
  • Coordinates with the Planning Department and Engineering Division for new development in wildfire hazard areas.
    Works and coordinates with GIS staff on wildfire-related projects.
  • Assist communities with hazard assessments, works with local representatives to prioritize treatment areas and identify mitigation projects, and supports community grant applications as needed.
  • Assists other County departments with special natural resource-related projects.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

In the event of an emergency/disaster in or near theCounty, all County employees are expected to make every effort to be availableto assist the County Manager, Elected/Appointed Officials and DepartmentDirectors to ensure the continued operation of any and all necessary Countyfunctions. This may mean being available to perform additional duties andhours beyond what is normally required. In the event that an exemptemployee does work more than 40 hours a week in support of County operationsduring an emergency, such employee may receive overtime or other appropriatewage compensation in accordance with existing County policies or at thediscretion of the County.
Minimum Qualifications:
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:
  • A bachelor's degree in forestry, forest management, natural resource management or other environmental science or closely related field is required.
  • Must have four years of forestry, forest management, wildfire mitigation, or land management experience.
  • A combination of experience and education may be considered.
  • A background in construction, inspection, and/or, prevention or suppression is preferred.
  • Must possess a valid Colorado Driver's License upon hire, with complying insurance. Review of motor vehicle record is required at time of hire and periodically throughout employment.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
In the event of an emergency/disaster in or near the County, all County employees are expected to make every effort to be available to assist the County Manager, Elected/Appointed Officials and Department Directors to ensure the continued operation of any and all necessary County functions. This may mean being available to perform additional duties and hours beyond what is normally required. In the event that an exempt employee does work more than 40 hours a week in support of County operations during an emergency, such employee may receive overtime or other appropriate wage compensation in accordance with existing County policies or at the discretion of the County.

Apply