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Furthermore, opponents question the effectiveness of such measures. Embers can travel at high speeds—up to 80 miles per hour—and often impact homes directly, regardless of what vegetation surrounds them. Critics argue that removing foliage may not significantly reduce this risk, and may instead expose homes to other hazards, such as increased heat and lack of shade that trees provide.
The Science and Lawmakers' Perspectives
The science behind the regulation is disputed. Opponents contend that the rules are not grounded in comprehensive wildfire research. Many argue that urban fires tend to spread more from house-to-house rather than from surrounding plants, and that well-maintained, irrigated greenery can act as a natural buffer and cooling agent.