Understanding the New Fire Hazard Severity Zones in Beverly Hills

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) has recently released revised fire hazard severity zone maps, and for residents of Beverly Hills, the changes could impact how they prepare for potential wildfires. With approximately 260 additional acres of Beverly Hills now classified as "very high" fire hazard severity zones, it's important to understand what these designations mean for local homeowners and how to stay prepared.

What’s Changed in Beverly Hills?
Previously, the very high fire hazard severity zone in Beverly Hills was confined to areas north of Sunset Boulevard. However, the latest revisions have extended these zones south of Sunset as well, adding new areas to the "very high" category. As explained by Trevor Richmond, Beverly Hills Assistant Fire Chief and Fire Marshal, "You'll notice that the very high zone has expanded beyond Sunset Boulevard, now stretching roughly between Lomitas and Elevado Avenues."

This adjustment is based on Cal Fire's updated methods for evaluating fire risk. The new maps provide a more accurate prediction of wind patterns and ember behavior, which are crucial factors in the spread of wildfires. This advanced analysis has led to the expansion of the high-risk zones, particularly in the southern sections of the city.

How to Determine Your Zone
Residents of Beverly Hills are encouraged to use the official Cal Fire website to check the specific fire hazard zone for their property. By entering your address, you can find out whether your home is in a "moderate," "high," or "very high" fire hazard severity zone. This will help you determine the necessary steps to ensure your property is prepared for wildfire risks.

City’s Efforts to Clarify Boundaries
Recognizing that some Beverly Hills properties were straddling the boundary between "very high" and "high" zones, the Beverly Hills Fire Department has worked to make these boundaries clearer. Richmond mentioned that a detailed review has been conducted to ensure that properties on the line are accurately classified, with the help of geographic information systems (GIS) technology. "We’ve adjusted the maps to reflect more accurately which zone each property falls in," he said, adding that a flyer will be distributed in the coming weeks to provide residents with clear information about their zones.

Updated Map Technology
These revisions are based on more advanced predictive models that consider wind speed and direction, allowing experts to better predict where embers from wildfires may land. According to Jim McDougald, Assistant Deputy Director of Cal Fire, this model now provides a much more detailed map of how embers from high-vegetation areas are likely to move into urban or non-wildland areas. This improved technology has led to the expansion of the very high fire hazard severity zones, a necessary update given the state’s ongoing efforts to reduce wildfire risks.

Requirements for Properties in Very High Hazard Zones
If your home is located within a very high fire hazard severity zone, you’ll be required to follow certain regulations to help reduce the risk of a wildfire impacting your property. These regulations, known as "defensible space" laws, require homeowners to maintain a defensible space around their structures. This includes reducing fuel such as dry plants within 5 feet of the home and managing vegetation up to 100 feet away. These measures are designed to slow the spread of fire and protect structures.

What’s Next for Beverly Hills Residents?
The Beverly Hills Fire Department is planning an ongoing public education campaign to help residents understand the new fire hazard severity zones and the associated requirements. Over the next few years, the city will likely take a more educational approach before enforcing stricter code requirements. This gradual transition will give homeowners time to adjust and ensure compliance.

Additionally, Beverly Hills has released an updated Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP), which aims to better prepare the community for various natural disasters, including wildfires. This plan is an essential step toward securing grants from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services. The city encourages residents to participate in the LHMP review process by providing feedback between April 21 and May 5.

How You Can Get Involved
Check Your Fire Hazard Severity Zone: Visit Cal Fire’s website to see where your home falls on the new fire hazard severity map.
Participate in the LHMP Review: Share your feedback on the updated Local Hazard Mitigation Plan by visiting the Beverly Hills Hazard Mitigation Plan Update page or emailing comments to [email protected].
By staying informed and preparing early, Beverly Hills residents can take the necessary steps to protect their properties and families from the growing threat of wildfires. Make sure you're up to date with the latest fire hazard severity zones and join in the community’s efforts to improve wildfire readiness.

Stay safe and informed, and don't forget to review your property’s fire risk designation today.