California Statewide Rule
California Fire Hazard Severity Zone Mapping Mandate
Key Facts
- Statutes
- Gov Code 51178, PRC 4202
- Zones
- Moderate, High, Very High
- Mapping authority
- State Fire Marshal, CAL FIRE
- Adoption deadline
- 120 days after release
Summary
California uniformly classifies and maps Fire Hazard Severity Zones statewide, with mandatory building, disclosure, and defensible space rules tied to zone designations.
The State Fire Marshal shall identify areas in the state as moderate, high, and very high fire hazard severity zones based on consistent statewide criteria and based on the severity of fire hazard that is expected to prevail in those areas. Moderate, high, and very high fire hazard severity zones shall be based on fuel loading, slope, fire weather, and other relevant factors including areas where winds have been identified by the Office of the State Fire Marshal as a major cause of wildfire spread.
Full Breakdown
Government Code Section 51178 and Public Resources Code Section 4202 require the State Fire Marshal and CAL FIRE to designate Fire Hazard Severity Zones (Moderate, High, Very High) across both State Responsibility Areas and Local Responsibility Areas. Local agencies must adopt the state maps within 120 days of release and cannot reduce zone classifications. Properties in Very High zones trigger Chapter 7A ignition-resistant construction standards in the California Building Code, AB 38 home-hardening disclosures at sale, and Public Resources Code 4291 defensible space duties. The 2024-2025 statewide map updates apply to all jurisdictions.
Violations & Penalties
Failure to comply with zone-based building, disclosure, or vegetation rules can result in stop-work orders, denial of insurance, and civil penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my city downgrade my Very High zone designation?
What disclosures apply when selling a home in a fire hazard zone?
Sources
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