How to balance the need for shade to save energy against the fire dangers of trees near/over the house?

Question

I'm in dry hills of Northern California where some days get very hot. The oak trees to the south/west of me overhang the house (wood siding but fireproof roof) and provide valuable shade. We have no AC.

Answer 1

That is a very interesting and important question. I See whats been going on in CA for the last decade or so with wild fires.. if I had a house in your state (i live in NY where it rains several times a weeks sometimes) . I would not have a tree within 100 yards of my house. Instead of having grass I would have a white gravel front yard  and sides of the house and my backyard would be nothing but landscape pavers and with low level bushes and trees and perennials- preferably 75 feet from the foundation.

    We've been hearing about how woderful CA is for more than 30 years but the weather is not worth the fear of fire, earthquakes and some illegal and gangs messing up my life. Not to mention I wouldn't want to live in the same state as Jay Leno! Move to the Northeast you won't regret it!