EMBER Initiative in Berkeley

Protecting the Craft. Responding to the Climate.

The Berkeley Hills are changing. With the 2026 EMBER Initiative deadline approaching, fire hardening is no longer just an upgrade—it's a critical evolution of the home.

At Traditional Craftworks, we approach fire resiliency through the lens of durability and artisan craft. We don't just "fix vents"; we integrate non-combustible systems into the aesthetic of your property so your home is both beautiful and compliant.

WHO IS AFFECTED?

The mandate targets homes in Fire Zones 3 and 4—primarily the high-risk ridges along the eastern border. If you are in any of these neighborhoods, the May 2026 inspection deadline applies to you:

  • Grizzly Peak & Panoramic Hill

  • Claremont & Northbrae Ridges

  • Zip Codes: 94708, 94705, 94707, 94704

THE ESSENTIALS

Zone 0: The 5-Foot Shield We transform the immediate perimeter of your home from a fuel source into a defensive buffer. By replacing combustible mulch and wood fencing with artisan stone or gravel, we create a "Ignition-Resistant" zone that meets the new code.

Ember-Resistant Retrofitting Embers cause most home ignitions. We install WUI-compliant 1/16th inch stainless steel mesh and high-performance Vulcan Vents that allow your home to breathe while blocking wind-blown heat and sparks.

Resilient Attachments A wooden gate attached to a house is essentially a fuse. We design and install non-combustible metal and masonry alternatives that maintain your home’s character while breaking the path of a fire.

REBATES & ASSISTANCE

Climate resiliency is an investment, and there are local tools to help offset the cost:

  • Transfer Tax Rebate: You may qualify for a Berkeley Transfer Tax Rebate (up to 1/3 of the base tax) for voluntary hardening work.

  • Resident Assistance (RAP): The City’s RAP Program provides logistical support for seniors or those with financial limitations.

  • Insurance Discounts: Under CA's Safer from Wildfires framework, many insurers now offer premium discounts for hardened properties.

LET’S START WITH AN AUDIT

The Berkeley Fire Department begins inspections in May 2026. Let’s walk your property together to identify exactly what you need to pass the first time.