CAL FIRE has released the updated 2025 Fire Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ) maps, identifying areas with moderate, high, and very high wildfire risk within Local Responsibility Areas (LRA). Check your property’s fire hazard classification and learn how these updates may impact you. Click here to learn more.
In accordance with Government Code Section 51178.5, the Novato Fire Protection District is mandated to facilitate public access to the proposed map and host a public comment period.
It is important for the public to understand that these maps are created by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) under the direction of the State Fire Marshal. Our local fire agency does not control the creation of the map but is required to ensure the community has the opportunity to review and provide feedback.
California Government Code Section 51179(a) mandates that local agencies "shall designate, by ordinance, moderate, high, and very high fire hazard severity zones in [their] jurisdiction within 120 days of receiving recommendations from the State Fire Marshal pursuant to Section 51178. The Novato Fire Protection District (NFD) received these maps on February 24, 2025.
These maps aim to provide valuable information for land use planning, building code enforcement, and wildfire risk mitigation strategies. Public input can help identify concerns, validate data, and improve the understanding of how these zones may impact residents, businesses, and emergency response planning.
We encourage all residents and stakeholders to review the proposed maps, ask questions, and submit their comments. Your participation is a vital part of this state-mandated process and contributes to a safer, more informed community.
Authorities & References
Government Code 51178 The State Fire Marshal shall identify areas in the state as moderate, high, and very high fire hazard severity zones based on consistent statewide criteria and based on the severity of fire hazard that is expected to prevail in those areas. Moderate, high, and very high fire hazard severity zones shall be based on fuel loading, slope, fire weather, and other relevant factors including areas where winds have been identified by the Office of the State Fire Marshal as a major cause of wildfire spread.
Fire Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ) Maps – Current & Historical Comparisons
Below are links to the latest 2025 Fire Hazard Severity Zone maps for Novato, and the Marin area, as well as previous maps from 2007. These maps allow residents to compare past and present fire hazard classifications and understand changes in fire risk over time.
Link to the maps:
2025 FHSZ Map - Novato
2007-2011 Maps: Fire Hazard Severity Zone Viewer
Fire Hazard Severity Zone Viewer - LRA and SRA
Resources
Insurance Q&A
LRA Factsheet
How to Make Public Comment
Click here to submit your comment
The public comment period is open effective March 4, 2025. The comment period will close on April 4, 2025, at 11:59 PM.
Have Questions?
For questions about the Fire Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ) maps, but not public comments, please email: prevention@novatofire.org