California Assembly Bill AB1516

California 2019-2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/22/19
• Refer: 3/18/19
• Report Pass: 3/28/19
• Refer: 4/1/19
• Report Pass: 4/10/19
• Refer: 4/22/19
• Report Pass: 4/29/19
• Refer: 5/1/19
• Report Pass: 5/6/19
• Refer: 5/7/19
• Refer: 5/15/19
• Report Pass: 5/16/19
• Engrossed: 5/23/19
• Refer: 5/24/19
• Refer: 6/6/19
• Report Pass: 6/11/19
• Refer: 6/11/19
• Report Pass: 6/25/19
• Refer: 6/25/19
• Report Pass: 7/3/19
• Refer: 7/3/19
• Report Pass: 7/10/19
• Refer: 7/10/19
• Report Pass: 8/12/19
• Refer: 8/12/19
• Refer: 8/19/19
• Report Pass: 8/30/19
• Enrolled: 9/11/19
• Vetoed: 10/13/19

Caption

Fire prevention: wildfire risk: defensible space and fuels reduction management.

Impact

The passage of AB 1516 introduces several new responsibilities for local agencies and property owners, thereby creating a state-mandated local program. Local agencies must notify affected residents of compliance requirements before imposing penalties, and this increases the resources required to enforce fire safety measures. Furthermore, the bill enables the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection to provide local assistance grants for fire prevention activities, supporting efforts to improve compliance with defensible space standards, particularly in economically disadvantaged areas.

Summary

Assembly Bill 1516, introduced by Assembly Member Friedman, addresses fire prevention and wildfire risk management in California. It mandates the Director of Forestry and Fire Protection to identify high fire hazard zones and requires property owners within these zones to maintain defensible space around their structures. The bill stipulates that this defensible space should not only extend to 100 feet but also necessitates more rigorous fuel reduction practices within 5 to 30 feet of structures, enhancing the protection against wildfires. The creation of an ember-resistant zone within 5 feet of the structure is also a key requirement aimed at further reducing the potential for fire ignition from embers.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding AB 1516 is largely supportive, particularly among proponents who view it as a proactive measure in a state that frequently faces devastating wildfires. However, concerns have been echoed about the potential financial burden on property owners and local governments that may struggle to meet the new requirements. The requirement for increased inspections and assessments may also create administrative challenges, especially for smaller jurisdictions.

Contention

A notable point of contention regarding AB 1516 involves the expanded definitions and regulations related to defensible space and fuels management. Critics argue that the bill places too heavy a burden on property owners, who may lack the resources to comply with enhanced defensible space requirements. Moreover, there are discussions about how effective the measures outlined in the bill will be in actually reducing wildfire risks, particularly considering variability in fire behavior and the ecological impact of aggressive vegetation management strategies.