We all want to be fire-wise and respect sensible science-based regulations to protect lives and structures. However we oppose unwarranted restrictions on hydrated vegetation in the 2025 expanded Cal Fire Very HighFire Hazard Severity Zone. AB 3074 recommends:“a regionally appropriate ember-resistant Zone 0”. INSTEAD, STATEWIDE ONE-SIZE-FITS-ALL REGULATIONS ARE PROPOSED. These would have severe and negative consequences for our densely-built urban areas. Forensic fire scientist of the US Forest Service Dr. Francisco Escobedo has found: In urban wind-driven conflagrations, STRUCTURE DENSITY, NOT hydrated vegetation, led to structure-to-structure fire spread. Trees were ember deterrents to structure ignition. For more information see our prior article at this link. In addition, the very excellent joint report from the Los Angeles City Fire Department and Community Forest Advisory Committee recommends exempting well-maintained vegetation and trees from removal and giving flexibility to local fire departments and their inspectors.
This is a chance for all of us to make our voices heard on this issue in person. All prior meetings have been in Sacramento (with insurance company lobbyists present). You may also send your written comments to PublicComments@bof.ca.gov. We encourage doing both.
The meeting will be held at:
Pasadena Convention Center Space 106
300 E. Green Street Open to public but registration is required
Thursday September 18, 10:30am to 5pm (1 hr. lunch break)
To register to attend: in person registration (3 minutes for public comment)
To participate virtually via teams: Use this link to register (3 minutes for public comment)
Meeting agenda is posted here (Public comment is 3 rd item)
Proposed rules include:
Removal of all in-ground plants within 5’ of structures.
No tree branches within 5’ of structure walls, roofs. 10’ from chimneys.
Plants must be 18’ apart in the next 25 feet and only 1 tree allowed.
Privacy hedges need to be removed.
Serious consequences:
Tree canopy loss. Air quality decrease. Heat increase. Energy needs increase. Wildlife habitat loss. Bird Nest disruption. Biodiversity undermined. Weed invasion. Slope failure. Mental and physical health effects. Increased fire vulnerability. Cost to comply. Weakening and imbalances will force tree removals, including street trees. And they could not be replaced.
Here is a link to the Board of Forestry Zone 0 page with links to prior meetings, proposed regulations, etc.