Fire Hazard Severity Zone Updates in Lancaster

In March 2025, the California State Fire Marshal released updated Fire Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ) maps for Local Responsibility Areas (LRA)this includes cities like Lancaster. These maps are based on updated wildfire science and show areas with a Moderate, High, or Very High hazard of wildfire over a 30–50 year period.

This is the first time Lancaster has had large portions of the city designated under the FHSZ program.

Search your property's designation using CAL FIRE's Map Viewer 

What Do These Zones Mean?
Hazard not Risk: The maps indicate the likelihood and expected behavior of wildfire—not whether a structure is likely to burn. Zones do not reflect recent fire history, home
hardening, or vegetation management efforts. Designations are based on fuel load, terrain, fire weather, and ember spread modeling.

What’s Required?
Under State Law (AB 211 and SB 63):

• All cities must adopt the new maps by ordinance by July 22, 2025.
• Local agencies cannot reduce or remove zones shown on the State maps.

How Will This Affect Me?
Real Estate - FHSZ designations may trigger additional disclosure requirements during property sales. New Construction - Structures built in High or Very High zones must follow wildland-urban interface (WUI) building codes, such as fire-resistant materials (CBC Chapter 7A). Defensible Space - Properties in designated zones are subject to the 100-foot clearance requirement under California law (Gov. Code 51182).

Will My Insurance Be Affected?

• According to the California Department of Insurance, insurers do not use FHSZ
  maps directly.
• You may qualify for insurance discounts by participating in “Safer from Wildfires”, a State-endorsed program encouraging mitigation steps like:

• Upgraded roofing and vents
• Defensible space
• Removal of combustible structures within 5 feet of buildings
  Learn more at the California Department of Insurance

Public Comment Welcome

If you would like to share your thoughts on the Office of State Fire Marshal’s fire hazard severity map, you may Submit your comment to the County Fire Department here or by emailing 2025STATEFIREMAPS@cityoflancasterca.gov. While public input is optional, all comments will be reviewed and considered during the implementation process. Please note that individual responses will not be provided at this time.