Firescaping - Malibu

2025 Malibu Workshop Summary & Resources

West Basin Municipal Water District, in partnership with the City of Malibu, Los Angeles County Waterworks #29, California Water Service, Metropolitan Water District, and the Los Angeles County Fire Department, hosted a workshop at Malibu City Hall on November 12, providing participants with an overview and understanding of fire-resistant landscaping practices.

The in-person workshop was led by subject matter expert Douglas Kent, MS, MLA. Kent, an author, activist, educator and specialist in ecological land management, has worked to create fire-protected communities since 1993.

He teaches at USC’s School of Architecture and UCLA Extension Horticulture/Landscape Design and is the author of the book Firescaping: Protecting Your Home with a Fire-Resistant Landscape.

Firescaping Nov 12 2025 Malibu

  

L-R: Gus Meza (West Basin Senior Water Policy & Resource Analyst), Gabriel Etcheverry (City of Malibu Fire Safety Liaison), Farah Stack (City of Malibu), Lyndsey Baughman (City of Malibu), Juliana Bellonby (City of Malibu), Douglas Kent, MS, MLA (Workshop Instructor)

  

 

Presentation

Videos

Partner Resources

What is firescaping?

Firescaping uses landscaping techniques and native plants to protect your home from wildfires. These practices, along with smart irrigation systems can help safeguard your home, use less water, and save money on your water bill.

Why is firescaping important?

California has dry, windy, and often hot weather conditions from spring through fall. These specific conditions in combination with climate change, can produce moderate to severe wildfires.  Firescaping allows you to:

  • Identify high-risk landscapes
  • Learn which plants and building materials help minimize damage
  • Get tips for reducing your fire risk
  • Make your home firefighter-accessible

Past Program Resources

West Basin last hosted a firescaping class in 2025 for Rolling Hills. The PowerPoint resources provided offer valuable information.