Grant Extended to Fire-Harden Homes, Businesses Damaged by Oregon Wildfires

The Oregon Building Codes Division has partnered with counties on a grant to help homeowners and businesses rebuild after the 2020 and 2021 Oregon wildfires.

People who own a home or business damaged or destroyed by the 2020 or 2021 wildfires can receive money for using more fire-resistant methods and materials when they rebuild. Those who have already rebuilt also qualify for the grants.

The grant program was due to expire June 30, but the Oregon Legislature extended the program and expanded it to include 2021 wildfire survivors. To date, program administrators say they have dispersed more than $3.3 million to help more than 800 wildfire survivors.

Fire hardening includes actions that can be taken to make a home or business more resistant to damage from a wildfire, such as using materials for siding and roofing that resist ignition during a wildfire, installing fire-resistant windows to protect openings, or using attic ventilation devices that help reduce ember intrusion.

To qualify for the program, a person must own a home or business damaged or destroyed in the 2020 or 2021 Oregon wildfires. The menu of fire-hardening improvements for grant money include more fire-resistant roofs, siding and windows. Eligible applicants can receive grant money through their county building department after completing one or more qualifying improvements. Visit the department’s fire hardening grant program webpage to apply or for more information.