TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FROM: Bernard Molloy, Fire Chief
PREPARED BY: Doug Strosnider, Fire Marshal
SUBJECT:
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Introduction of Ordinance 619-25 Updating the City's Fire Hazard Severity Zone Map
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RECOMMENDATION
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Conduct the first reading and introduce Ordinance No. 619-25 entitled: An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Murrieta, California, Adopting A New Map with Updated Fire Hazard Severity Zones As Recommended by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
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PRIOR ACTION/VOTE
None.
CITY COUNCIL GOAL
Provide a high level of innovative public safety.
BACKGROUND
California Government Code Sections 51175 through 51189 mandate that the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) identify and map areas of significant fire hazard Statewide. These areas are designated as Fire Hazard Severity Zones and are categorized as Moderate, High, or Very High based on fuels, terrain, weather, and other factors influencing wildfire behavior.
CAL FIRE is updating all fire hazard severity zone maps in California. The updated map for Murrieta (Exhibit A to the Ordinance No. 619-25) was released to the City of Murrieta (City) on March 24, 2025. The map has been reviewed and approved by City staff, including the Fire Department. The new map adds portions of the City to the High Fire Severity Zone.
State law gives the City three options to respond to the map. First, adopt the map as recommended. Second, add additional areas to the designation of Very High Fire Severity Zone if findings can be made, supported by substantial evidence, that such action is necessary for effective fire protection within the area. Third, add areas to the designation of Moderate and High Fire Severity Zones if findings can be made, supported by substantial evidence, that such action is necessary for effective fire protection within the area. Staff does not recommend that additional area...
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