FHSZ Map Updates
New 2025 San Diego County (FHSZ) Maps, Including Encinitas, Solana Beach, and Del Mar.
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), through the Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM), has recently released the 2025 Recommended Local Responsibility Area (LRA) Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZ) maps for San Diego County. These updated maps, which include Solana Beach, and reflect more accurate information about areas that are at risk for wildfires.
View the newly released FHSZ Maps here: Fire Hazard Severity Zone Viewer - LRA
Why This Matters
State law requires local agencies adopt these maps by ordinance within 120 days of their release. This update is vital for ensuring that local communities are adequately informed about their fire risk, take necessary precautions and prepare for emergencies.
Changes to the FHSZ Maps
The newly updated FHSZ maps now include not only the very high fire, but also moderate and high fire hazard severity zones. This broader classification allows for a more comprehensive understanding of wildfire risks.
Important Note: Under State Law (Government Code Section 51179(b)(3)), local agencies, including the Fire Departments of Encinitas, Solana Beach, and Del Mar, are prohibited from lowering the fire hazard severity zone classifications set by the OSFM.
Adoption Timeline and Public Review Process
- Maps Released: CAL FIRE released the updated maps for local review on March 24, 2025. The Del Mar, Encinitas, and Solana Beach Fire Departments are currently reviewing the updated maps.
- Public Availability: Local agencies are required to make the maps available for public review and comment within 30 days. (Coming Soon)
- Adoption Deadline: The cities have 120 days to adopt the maps by ordinance. City Council meetings will be set after the initial review.
- State Requirements: Local agencies are prohibited from lowering the fire hazard severity zone classifications set by the OSFM.
- Implementation: Once adopted, the new maps will take effect within 30 days or by no later than July 31, 2025.
Submitting Public Comments
The public is encouraged to review the maps and submit comments in accordance with Government Code Section 51178.5. While public comments are welcome, local agencies cannot modify these maps based on these comments to modify the maps based on these comments.
Additional Resources
To help you understand these changes and how they might affect you, the following resources are available:
- CAL FIRE Fact Sheet: Provides an overview of the FHSZ maps and their significance.
- CAL FIRE Fact Sheet (Spanish Version): For Spanish-speaking residents.
- CA Department of Insurance - Impact: Learn how these changes may affect insurance coverage and costs.
- More Information on the FHSZ Maps: You can learn more about the maps and the development process through CAL FIRE’s website. Fire Hazard Severity Zones | OSFM
The Fire Department understands the importance of these changes and are committed to working closely with the community to ensure everyone has access to the information they need to stay safe. Thank you for being a proactive and engaged member of our community.
"The Solana Beach Fire Department understands the importance of these changes and are committed to working closely with the community to ensure everyone has access to the information they need to stay safe. Thank you for being a proactive and engaged member of our community."
