Wildfires: local general plans: safety elements: fire hazard severity zones.
Additionally, AB 800 requires that any draft amendments to the safety elements of local general plans, particularly those concerning areas identified as moderate and high fire hazard zones, must be submitted for review to the State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection and local fire protection agencies. This provision is designed to enhance collaboration between local jurisdictions and state authorities, ensuring that local plans incorporate expert recommendations and adequately address the risks associated with wildfires.
Assembly Bill 800, introduced by Assembly Member Gabriel, focuses on enhancing wildfire mitigation and prevention efforts in California by amending several sections of the Government Code. The bill aims to expand the existing framework for identifying fire hazard severity zones by mandating that the Director of Forestry and Fire Protection also designate moderate and high fire hazard severity zones, in addition to the currently recognized very high severity zones. This initiative seeks to improve local safety elements within city and county general plans, ensuring they align with updated state wildfire safety standards.
The general sentiment around AB 800 appears to be supportive among public safety advocates and environmental groups who see the need for stronger regulations to protect communities from wildfire risks. However, there are concerns from local governments about the potential for increased regulations imposing additional burdens on their planning processes and resources. The balance between effective wildfire prevention and the autonomy of local governance is a central theme in the discourse surrounding this bill.
Notable points of contention include the bill's requirements that local agencies must provide findings before approving tentative maps for developments in high-risk areas. Many local governments feel this may limit their ability to adjust zoning and land use decisions to fit community needs. However, proponents argue that these measures are essential to safeguard lives and property in a state increasingly affected by wildfires.