Wildfire Mitigation Programs

Welcome to Newport Beach Wildfire Mitigation Programs

Prepare. Prevent. Protect.

Protecting your home and community from wildfire starts with preparation and prevention. Wildfire threats to homes and communities built in or near wildfire-prone areas are a reality we cannot ignore. Fire, by nature, is an unpredictable and often uncontrollable force. However, with community-wide preparation and individual action, we can reduce our vulnerability and build a more resilient future. The City of Newport Beach is committed to helping residents reduce wildfire risks through a variety of vegetation management and fire safety programs. Whether you are looking to harden your home, create defensible space, or better understand wildfire preparedness, we have the tools and resources you need.

Our Programs

1. Defensible Space
Learn how to create and maintain defensible space zones around your home to slow the spread of wildfire and provide firefighters with a safer environment to protect your property.

2. Annual Vegetation Mitigation Programs
Discover how proper maintenance and management of vegetation can reduce fuel for wildfires and protect your property.

3. Home Hardening
Learn how to strengthen your home against wildfire by using fire-resistant materials and improving vulnerable areas such as roofs, vents, and windows to allow the home or structure to defend itself during a wildfire event.

4. Ready, Set, Go!
Be prepared for wildfire emergencies with this three-step program:

• Ready: Prepare your home and create a wildfire action plan.
• Set: Stay alert and know when to evacuate.
• Go: Act early and leave safely when wildfire strikes.

5. Fuel Modification
Understand how fuel modification zones are designed to reduce the intensity of wildfires through strategic landscaping, plant selection, and maintenance practices.

6. AB-38 Inspections
California Assembly Bill AB-38 mandates that sellers of residential properties located in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones provide buyers with documentation confirming the property’s compliance with local or state defensible space requirements prior to the close of escrow.   

Ensure compliance with California Assembly Bill AB-38 by understanding defensible space requirements for properties in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones. This program helps property owners and sellers navigate the inspection process, ensuring wildfire safety and smooth real estate transactions. 

7. State LRA VHFHSZ Maps 
Identifies locations with significant risk of wildfires under California law, which directs the Director of Forestry and Fire Protection to evaluate all properties in the state and classify locations at greater risk for loss of life and property due to fire. Using statewide survey criteria, zones are categorized as Moderate, High, or Very High based on factors such as fuel, slope, weather, vegetation, housing density, roofing materials, and other fire-related conditions. The map guides land-use planning, enforces building codes, and promotes wildfire preparedness, serving as a critical tool for managing wildfire risks and resource allocation.

Why it Matters

Wildfires are a growing threat in Southern California, and preparation is key to protecting lives and property. By participating in these programs, residents can take proactive steps to reduce risks and create a safer, more resilient community.

For further details pertaining to each program, please click on the appropriate tab for more information. With your efforts, help safeguard Newport Beach from the threat of wildfires.

If you have questions, concerns, or inquiries please contact: 949-644-3106

Together, we can make Newport Beach fire-safe and wildfire-ready.

 Q & A’s

Can Newport Beach Fire Department address a neighboring tree that is overhanging onto my property, I feel it’s a fire hazard?

The Fire Department can address overhanging trees only if it is dead or dry. If the tree is green and healthy, it becomes a civil matter. The Fire Department are not arborists and may recommend that you hire one to confirm the viability and stability of the tree. The city does not mediate neighbor disputes or civil matters such as tree obstructions or nuisances. The Fire Department role is limited to investigating fire hazards.

What can the fire department do about a tree touching powers lines?

City of Newport Beach receives power from Southern California Edison. If you are concerned about trees touching power lines, contact Edison at 800-655-4555. To schedule an inspection, call 800-640-3652. For any power line or electrical emergencies, call 911 immediately. 

Can Newport Beach address any overgrown vegetation outside its city limits, even if its adjacent to my property?

No, the City of Newport beach cannot enforce regulations outside of its city limits/jurisdiction. Any complaints or concerns pertaining outside city limits should be directed to the appropriate agency.

I believe my neighbor’s property is a fire hazard due to overgrown vegetation. What can the Fire Department do about it?

"Fire hazards" are determined by fire department personnel based on the Fire Code, not the public. Trash could be a health or nuisance issue. Provide as much detailed information about your concern and a fire department representative will investigate and determine whether it's a fire hazard. If trimmings are found piled up, please provide a week to have a waste company pick up per their schedule.