The Fullerton City Council is set to vote on changes regarding fire safety in Fullerton on May 6th. They will address new maps released by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) that outline Fire Hazard Severity Zones. The city needs to adopt these updated zones within 120 days of their March 24, 2025 announcement.

While the city does not expect to incur significant costs from adopting these new maps—aside from minor expenses for informing the public—there may be a need for additional resources in the Fire Department for inspections and enforcement in the future. City staff plan to assess these needs and will keep the City Council updated.

These updated maps are designed to help communities better understand areas at higher risk for wildfires. They incorporate scientific data, considering factors like past wildfires, the potential spread of embers, and vegetation density. This update is a major change from the previous version released in 2011, which only identified areas at “Very High” risk. The new designations now include “Moderate,” “High,” and “Very High” zones, affecting almost 4.6 million acres across Southern California.

In Fullerton, the “Very High” hazard zone has expanded by 28%, increasing from 1,186 acres to 1,516 acres. This change reflects a regional trend, where similar designations have increased by 26%. New “Moderate” and “High” hazard zones have been identified, especially in the West Coyote Hills and East Coyote Hills, where the risk is heightened due to flammable plants and the potential for embers to travel.

Homes in these high-hazard zones must follow strict building regulations mandated by the state, including using fire-resistant materials and managing vegetation carefully. Homeowners in “Very High” zones must also comply with recent state laws introducing additional safety rules for property ownership transfers.

Despite worries about wildfire risks, California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara has stated that these changes shouldn’t affect homeowners’ ability to get insurance. Insurers often rely on their models to assess risk, considering various aspects like past claims and local fire department resources.

This item will be at the city council meeting held on May 6, 2025. City Council Meeting is scheduled to begin at 4 pm and will convene at 5 pm in the Council Chambers, 303 West Commonwealth Avenue, Fullerton