Special Notice / Hearing: None__
Vote Required: Majority
To: Honorable Board of Supervisors
From: Michael Callagy, County Executive
Jed Wilson, Fire Chief, San Mateo County Fire/CalFire
Subject: Introduction of Ordinance of the San Mateo County Fire Department Designating Fire Hazard Severity Zones and Determining that the Ordinance is Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act
RECOMMENDATION:
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Introduction of an ordinance of the San Mateo County Fire Department designating Fire Hazard Severity Zones in its jurisdiction as recommended by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection and determining that the ordinance is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act, and waive the reading of the ordinance in its entirety.
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BACKGROUND:
The State of California has long recognized the need for fire hazard classification. Government Code Section 51179(a) outlines the State Fire Marshal's responsibility to periodically update and provide Fire Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ) maps to local agencies. These maps serve as a key resource for local governments in planning and implementing fire prevention measures. Additionally, these maps are used for land use planning for future development and new construction.
DISCUSSION:
On February 24, 2025, the San Mateo County Fire Department (SMCFD) received the updated FHSZ maps from the State Fire Marshal's Office. These maps were developed pursuant to Government Code Section 51178, which mandates the identification and classification of areas in California based on their relative fire hazard severity. The designation is a crucial step in implementing fire prevention strategies and ensuring the safety of residents in high-hazard areas.
The maps do not limit or restrict the SMCFD's authority to impose more restrictive fire and public safety requirements, as otherwise authorized by law.
The maps measure hazard and not risk. Fire "hazard" is based on physical conditions t...
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