Wednesday, February 19, 2025 – Residents of Sooke can access up to $1,000 in rebates for taking steps to protect their homes and properties from wildfire. The FireSmart Rebate Program, supported by the District of Sooke, provides reimbursement for 50% of eligible expenses up to $1,000 to encourage homeowners to implement recommended wildfire mitigation measures and enhance community safety.
This initiative is made possible through funding from the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) Community Resiliency Investment (CRI) program under the FireSmart Community Funding & Supports stream. This funding helps communities reduce wildfire risks and build long-term resilience.
To qualify for the rebate, residents must first book a free FireSmart Home Assessment through Sooke Fire Rescue by calling 250-642-5422. During this assessment, the District’s Certified FireSmart Coordinator will identify specific actions property owners can take to reduce wildfire risk.
Eligible Expenses for Reimbursement Include:
- Removal of combustible vegetation and debris (e.g., branches, leaves, etc.)
- Upgrading landscaping with fire-resistant plants and materials
- Replacing combustible fencing, decks, or siding with non-combustible alternatives
- Installing ember-resistant vents and screens
- Clearing and maintaining defensible space around structures
“The FireSmart Rebate Program is an incredible opportunity for residents to take proactive steps in safeguarding their properties against wildfire,” says Madison Crawford, District of Sooke FireSmart Program Coordinator and Fire/Life Safety Inspector. “By making small but impactful changes, homeowners can significantly enhance their home’s resilience while contributing to the overall safety of our community.”
Residents are encouraged to act early, as rebates are available on a first-come, first-served basis while funding lasts.
To learn more about the program and FireSmart initiatives in Sooke, visit sooke.ca/firesmart.
Frequently Asked Questions
Residents within the District of Sooke are eligible to apply. Eligible work must be conducted on the homeowner’s privately owned property; work on right-of-ways, provincial, or crown land is not eligible.
The program reimburses 50% of eligible expenses up to $1,000. Labour costs are calculated as 50% of $32.00 per hour, based on the volunteer compensation rate established by FireSmart Canada. Homeowners can complete the mitigation activities themselves or hire others to perform the work. Due to limited funding, only one rebate application per property is allowed.
Eligible activities include:
- Roofing: Removing combustible debris and overhanging branches.
- Siding: Removing combustible debris and creating a 15 centimetre ground-to-siding non-combustible clearance.
- Decking: Removing all combustible material from under or adjacent to decks and relocating firewood piles.
- Landscaping (Immediate Zone): Ensuring a 1.5-meter horizontal non-combustible surface perimeter along the outer walls of the primary structure, planting fire-resistant plants, and removing flammable vegetation.
- FireSmart Intermediate Zone: Removing easily ignitable materials, thinning and pruning trees, and clearing accumulations of fallen branches, dry grass, and needles.
Yes, a free Home Assessment conducted by a Certified FireSmart Coordinator is required to be eligible for the rebate. The assessment will provide recommendations specific to your property. To schedule an assessment, call Sooke Fire Rescue at 250-642-5422.
After completing the recommended mitigation activities, submit your receipts and a completed rebate application form to the District of Sooke. Ensure all work aligns with the recommendations provided during your Home Assessment.
Rebates are available on a first-come, first-served basis while funding lasts. It’s advisable to act promptly to secure funding for your mitigation efforts.
For further details and updates on the FireSmart Rebate Program, please visit sooke.ca/firesmart or contact Sooke Fire Rescue at 250-642-5422.