Local Responsibility Area (LRA) Fire Hazard Severity Map
The City of Sonoma, in partnership with the Sonoma Valley Fire District (SVFD) and the County of Sonoma, has released updated Fire Hazard Severity Maps (FHSZ) for Local Responsibility Areas (LRA) following CalFire’s February 24, 2025, statewide update. These maps use the latest climate data, fire history, topography, and wildfire modeling to classify areas as Very High, High, or Moderate Fire Hazard Zones.
Local governments must adopt these designations within 120 days but cannot downgrade any areas identified by CalFire. However, based on community input and local risk assessments, jurisdictions may upgrade hazard levels if justified.
What Does This Mean for the City of Sonoma?
The City of Sonoma and Sonoma Valley Fire District will review CalFire’s draft map and create a local version for adoption. While we cannot downgrade the severity zones identified by CalFire, jurisdictions, and agencies can upgrade severity classifications based on local conditions and risk assessments.
As part of this process:
- Public Review & Comment: The City has 30 days from the release date to share the draft map for public review and comment.
- Ordinance Adoption: The City must adopt a finalized map and ordinance within 120 days of receiving the map.
- Submission to CalFire: After adoption, the City has 30 days to submit the ordinance to CalFire.
Next Steps and Community Involvement
The City of Sonoma, in partnership with the Sonoma Valley Fire District, is working to:
- Evaluate Local Risk: Assess wildfire hazards based on regional conditions and determine whether additional areas should be upgraded to a higher risk classification.
- Evaluate and Address Impacts: Our Community Development Department is reviewing how this update affects building codes and development standards.
- Public Outreach: We’ll share information through meetings, newsletters, and social media.
- Ordinance Development: Work with stakeholders to finalize an ordinance that aligns with state regulations and local wildfire mitigation efforts.
How to Stay Informed and Participate
We encourage residents and property owners to stay engaged as this process unfolds. Here's how you can get involved:
- Review the Draft Map: Check if a property is affected (see CALFIRE draft map).
- Provide Feedback: Submit your comments via the online form on the SVFD website.
- Attend Meetings: We’ll announce public meetings where you can learn more and share input.
- Follow Updates: Stay informed through City newsletters, social media, and website updates.