Cal Cities-sponsored bill would improve the fire hazard mapping process

By Melissa Sparks-Kranz, legislative advocate (environmental quality)

Asm. Lisa Calderon introduced AB 2517, a bill sponsored by Cal Cities that would address major concerns raised by cities about the state’s fire hazard mapping process. Fire hazard maps identify environmental conditions — including slope, vegetation, wind patterns, and others — that can spread wildfires.

The measure would require the Office of the State Fire Marshal to provide consistent and timely updates when developing the local responsibility area fire hazard severity zone (FHSZ) maps. Specifically, the bill would require the state to make the data and methodology for the fire hazard model publicly available.

“AB 2517 ensures science-based, regularly scheduled updates that reflect current wildfire threats, providing fire agencies, local governments, and residents with the best available data for effective mitigation and preparedness efforts,” said Calderon. “By establishing a clear and consistent review timeline, this bill strengthens California’s wildfire prevention strategy and enhances the state’s ability to protect lives, property, and infrastructure.”

How would it work?

Under current law, FHSZ designations in local areas must be “periodically” reviewed by the State Fire Marshal. This vague timeline often leaves local governments without the scientific data they need to fully understand which areas are at greatest risk for fires. These designations correlate with defensible space and home hardening requirements and are critical for ensuring communities can mitigate wildfires.

AB 2517 would clarify that this process happens on a five-year frequency and would require the State Fire Marshal to provide a preliminary release of the maps with a public comment period and regional workshops. This would allow local governments and stakeholders the opportunity to better understand the designations and plan for wildfires.

It would also allow cities to offer relevant land use information to make sure the state is aware of any changes in land use or zoning that may not be reflected in the maps. In some cases, the state has designated parking lots and bodies of water as high-fire severity zones. Additionally, some parcels have been split with two designations. The bill would clarify that local governments can increase the fire hazard designation when a parcel is assigned two zones.  

"Cal Cities is proud to sponsor AB 2517, which will increase transparency, timeliness, and public engagement around the state’s high fire area designation process," said Cal Cities Executive Director and CEO Carolyn Coleman. "AB 2517 will increase public awareness and help inform how local governments can keep our residents and businesses safe against the growing threat of wildfires in and around our communities."

Strengthening climate change resilience and disaster preparedness, including wildfire prevention and mitigation, is a top priority for Cal Cities. To show your support, please submit a letter using Cal Cities’ sample support letter. The bill must remain in print for 30 days before lawmakers can hear it.