Fire Hazard Severity Zone

What is a Fire Hazard Severity Zone?

A “Fire Hazard Severity Zone” (FHSZ) is a geographic area classified by the state as having a moderate, high, or very high risk of wildfire based on factors like vegetation, terrain, weather patterns, and fire history, essentially identifying regions where the potential for a severe wildfire is significantly elevated; these zones are primarily used in California by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) to guide building codes and wildfire mitigation strategies in high-risk areas.

Introduction Video

Watch CAL FIRE’s Introduction Video to learn about Fire Hazard Severity Zones in Local Responsibility Area.

Updating Maps

CAL FIRE has sent letters to all cities, counties, and fire protection districts to notify stakeholders of the transmittal of new Local Responsibility Area (LRA) maps in January of 2025.

• Government Code 51178 requires the State to identify moderate and high zones in addition to very high fire hazard areas.
• The last LRA map published in 2007 only contained “very high hazards.”
• These updated maps may include new areas that were not previously identified by the State Fire Marshal.
• Specific actions are required by local jurisdictions to occur within 30 days and 120 days of transmittal.

Town Hall Meeting

The City will hold a District 1 Town Hall to share additional information and answer questions. Representatives from the Fire Department, Community Development, and City Manager’s Office will be present to discuss the updated maps and clarify the technical terminology used by the State in this process.

Additional Resources