The Tuolumne/Calaveras Unit of CAL FIRE will be conducting a focused defensible space compliance law enforcement operation in Calaveras County on Saturday and Sunday, August 30th and 31st, 2008. The purpose of this operation is to issue citations to homeowners who have not cleared around their homes as required under Public Resources Code 4291. Since 2005, the Code has required 100 feet of clearance around all structures, or to property lines, whichever is closest. The minimum fine is 340 dollars per violation. Officers will be out in the field for both days inspecting homes that were previously inspected earlier in the season. According to Fire Chief Mike Noonan, "maintaining defensible space is critical to protecting not just your home from wildfires but also your neighbors home. We cannot guarantee that a fire engine will be available to protect every single home during a wildfire." For more information about defensible space requirements contact your local Cal Fire station, or visit www.fire.ca.gov.