California Senate Bill SB190

California 2019-2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/19
• Refer: 2/6/19
• Refer: 3/5/19
• Report Pass: 3/12/19
• Refer: 3/12/19
• Refer: 4/1/19
• Report Pass: 4/22/19
• Refer: 4/23/19
• Refer: 4/30/19
• Report Pass: 5/16/19
• Engrossed: 5/23/19
• Refer: 6/6/19
• Refer: 6/17/19
• Report Pass: 6/27/19
• Refer: 6/27/19
• Report Pass: 7/10/19
• Refer: 7/11/19
• Refer: 8/12/19
• Report Pass: 8/30/19
• Enrolled: 9/11/19
• Chaptered: 10/2/19
• Passed: 10/2/19

Caption

Fire safety: building standards: defensible space program.

Impact

SB 190 aims to reform fire safety practices by orchestrating a comprehensive defensible space program developed by the Office of the State Fire Marshal, in association with local and federal fire services, building officials, and environmental stakeholders. The bill outlines specific requirements for training and education regarding fire safety compliance, thereby enabling local jurisdictions to better enforce the defensible space regulations. As a result, stakeholders anticipate an increase in awareness and adherence to fire risk reduction practices across communities most vulnerable to wildfires, improving overall public safety.

Summary

Senate Bill No. 190, introduced by Senator Dodd, focuses on enhancing fire safety by mandating new building standards relating to defensible space in areas identified as high fire hazard zones. The bill requires individuals who own, lease, or maintain structures in such regions to ensure defensible space is maintained around those structures, which includes utilizing fire-resistant materials and implementing certain construction requirements to lower the risk of igniting from adjacent structures or vegetation. This legislation comes in response to the increasing severity and frequency of wildfires, highlighting California's commitment to improving resilience against such disasters.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding the bill appears to be largely positive, with support from various stakeholders, including local governments and fire safety advocates. Proponents argue that the bill represents a significant step towards proactive fire management and community safety, especially in wildfire-prone areas. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the financial implications of implementing these measures at the local level and the potential burden it may create on property owners who must comply with the new standards.

Contention

Notably, contention may arise over the specifics of what constitutes 'defensible space' and how compliance will be monitored and enforced. The complexity of defining and implementing these standards could lead to disputes between local authorities and property owners. Additionally, there may be challenges related to funding the required training and resources for local agencies tasked with upholding these new regulations, which could impact the overall effectiveness of the bill's goal to establish a safer environment against wildfires.