Calistoga homeowners protest new fire ordinances citing insurance and property value concerns

During the recent Calistoga City Council meeting on April 29, 2025, significant concerns were raised regarding new fire safety regulations and their potential impact on local homeowners. Residents expressed frustration over state mandates that could affect property values and insurance availability in high fire hazard zones.

One resident, Dan Herndon, voiced his worries about the implications of new ordinances that require homeowners to modify their properties, such as removing vegetation and fences that do not meet the new five-foot clearance requirement. He argued that these regulations could deter potential homebuyers, making it harder for residents to sell their homes in the future. Herndon, a former Cal Fire employee, emphasized that he believes the state is overstepping its bounds by imposing these rules on local areas, which he feels are better equipped to understand their own risks.

Another resident, Dom Talarico, echoed Herndon’s sentiments, urging the council to challenge the state’s authority on these regulations. He highlighted the importance of local knowledge in assessing fire risks and suggested that homeowners should have the autonomy to make decisions about their properties without state interference.

The discussions reflect a growing concern among Calistoga residents about the balance between fire safety and property rights. As the council considers these regulations, the community is left grappling with the potential consequences for home values and the overall livability of the area.

The council's next steps will be crucial in addressing these concerns, as residents await clarity on how these regulations will be implemented and what support, if any, will be available to assist homeowners in complying with the new requirements.