Oregon’s Wildfire Certification Falls Flat Without Insurance Discounts to Drive Participation

Oregon’s effort to boost wildfire preparedness through a new certification program has stumbled due to one key omission: mandatory insurance discounts. Unlike California’s ‘Safer from Wildfires’ framework, which ties specific mitigation steps to insurance savings, Oregon’s plan leaves participation and incentives up to insurers. Homeowners pay $125 to earn a certificate proving basic fire-safe upgrades—like clearing defensible space—but without a guarantee of premium reductions, many see little value in applying.

California’s model has proven effective by directly linking risk-reducing upgrades to policyholder savings, even if some discounts are modest. Community-wide programs, like Firewise USA recognition, also contribute to added financial incentives. In contrast, Oregon’s legislation, though well-intentioned, merely encourages insurers to consider mitigation actions rather than requiring them to offer discounts. That lack of firm commitment has left homeowners asking, ‘What’s in it for me?’

Oregon residents, especially in high-risk rural areas, have already seen insurance premiums spike as much as 50% in recent years. Without meaningful financial incentives, it’s unlikely that many will invest thousands in home-hardening improvements. Policymakers may need to reconsider and follow California’s example by attaching tangible economic benefits to mitigation actions.

Ultimately, Oregon’s wildfire preparedness strategy could still succeed—but only if stakeholders commit to integrating stronger financial motivators. Discounts, grants, or tax credits could transform a good idea into real action that reduces risk and saves money.