Chapter 1 - Hazard Mitigation Web Portal - State of California

State of California Multi‐Hazard Mitigation PlanChapter 5 – Earthquakes, Floods and Wildfires: Risks and StrategiesClick Here ToComment On:Chapter 5Section 4.4.25.4.4.2 Fire Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ) MappingProgress Summary 5.S: Fire Hazard Severity ZonesProgress as of 2010: CAL FIRE has remapped both state and local fire responsibility areas toprovide updated map zones, based on new data, science, and technology that will create moreaccurate zone designations such that mitigation strategies are implemented in areas wherehazards warrant these investments. The zones will provide specific designation for application ofdefensible space and building standards consistent with known mechanisms of fire risk topeople, property, and natural resources. (http://frap.fire.ca.gov/projects/hazard/fhz.html).Wildland‐Urban Interface (WUI) building codes that have been adopted by the CaliforniaBuilding Standards Commission took effect January 1, 2008 and use FHSZ maps as the basis forapplicability of certain code sections. FHSZ maps will follow established adoption processesrequired by state statute. CAL FIRE has remapped both SRA and LRA areas to provide updatedmap zones, based on new data, science, and technology that will create more accurate zonedesignations such that mitigation strategies are implemented in areas where hazards warrantthese investments. The zones will provide specific designation for application of defensiblespace and building standards consistent with known mechanisms of fire risk to people, property,and natural resources.Public Resources Code (PRC) 4201‐4204 and Govt. Code 51175‐89 direct the CaliforniaDepartment of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) to map areas of significant fire hazardsbased on fuels, terrain, weather, and other relevant factors. These zones, referred to as FireHazard Severity Zones (FHSZ), define the application of various mitigation strategies to reducerisk associated with wildland fires. State Responsibility Areas (SRA) were originally mapped in1985 and was last updated in 2007.Local Responsibility Areas (LRA) were originally mapped in 1996 and are currently undergoingthe local adoption process for those changes. Many local governments have made similardesignations under their own authority. Current FHSZ mapping is available for 2007 and 2008for most LRA areas. LRA FHSZ maps must be ratified by the local government agency and thestate for full adoption. There are still a few LRA maps pending local ratification prior to beingfully adopted.Public Comment Draft – July 2010 238