Cal Fire designates new fire hazard mapping for Alisal Ranch area

The Solvang Planning Commission meeting held on May 5, 2025, focused on critical discussions regarding fire hazard mapping and property owner responsibilities in relation to wildfire risks. The meeting highlighted the importance of understanding the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) areas, which are regions where urban development meets wildland areas, posing significant fire hazards.

The commission reviewed new fire hazard maps that categorize areas based on their risk levels. Areas marked in yellow are considered to have a moderate hazard, while those in orange are classified as high hazard, and red areas are deemed very high hazard. Notably, this meeting marked the first time that a mapping of very high hazard areas was presented, specifically identifying regions near the Alisal Ranch as particularly vulnerable.

Commission members emphasized the implications for property owners within these newly designated zones. For those in the moderate hazard zone (yellow), it is crucial to take precautions to mitigate fire risks. In the high hazard zone (orange), property owners will now be required to disclose their property's risk status at the time of sale, similar to existing regulations for flood zones and properties near airports.

The meeting concluded with a call for residents to be proactive in understanding their property’s designation and the necessary steps to ensure safety in the face of potential wildfire threats. The commission plans to continue monitoring these areas and provide further guidance to the community on fire safety measures.