The City of Sonoma is moving forward with adopting the Fire Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ) map, which designates areas based on their level of wildfire risk. This map is required under Government Code Section 51179 and has been reviewed in partnership with the Sonoma Valley Fire District (SVFD) and CalFire. The updated FHSZ map is now scheduled for approval during the May 7, 2025, City Council meeting, where it will appear on the Consent Calendar.
Key Details:
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Council Meeting: May 7, 2025, 6:00 PM
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Location: City Council Chambers, 177 First Street West, Sonoma, Ca
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Watch Live Stream: Available via CivicWeb and YouTube Channel
Public Comment:
If you would like to provide public comment, please use the Public Comment form on the CivicWeb Portal or speak during the Public Comment period for Consent Calendar items at the meeting.
What’s Happening:
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The FHSZ map classifies areas as Moderate, High, or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones based on fire risk factors such as fire history, fuel types, housing density, and more.
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The updated map, incorporating feedback and modifications by the Sonoma Valley Fire District, will help streamline fire hazard zone designations and clarify regulations for affected properties.
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New requirements will apply to properties within High and Very High zones, including building code changes and defensible space landscaping for properties in the Very High zone.
Next Steps:
Staff is working on providing additional educational resources to inform the public about the new fire safety requirements and regulations.
For more details on the FHSZ map, please visit the City’s FHSZ Page.