The Hazard Reduction Unit is responsible for administering the Fire Department's annual weed abatement program. Currently, over 15,000 notices are mailed to owners of property within Ventura County that are in or adjacent to a high fire hazard area. Fire District Ordinance 24 requires that 100 feet of defensible space be provided from any structure built in these areas. The Hazard Reduction Unit works with the fire stations and the property owners to ensure that clearance is maintained. The Hazard Reduction Unit works with the State and local Fire Safe Councils to assist with their mission "to preserve California's natural and manmade resources by mobilizing all Californians to make their homes, neighborhoods and communities fire safe." An annual Homeowners Wildland Expo is to be conducted by the unit to provide information to the public on how to improve their property safety.

The Hazard Reduction Unit is also responsible for the issuance of filming permits in the County of Ventura. Filming often takes place in open space areas and may require a Fire Safety Officer on-site during filming.