Kern County firefighters are asking people to be sure they have hazards around their homes and businesses cleared by Thursday’s deadline after a 550-acre grass fire burned close to houses in McFarland.

The blaze on Sherwood Avenue off Highway 65 was put out two hours after it started around 1:30 Wednesday morning. Captain Jason Knaggs says a wet winter is making these fires hard to fight because the extra grass is fueling the flames. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Homeowners who do not clear their space face a $500 fine, double the amount from last year.

Kelli Forsch