City launches defensible-space inspection program and Firewise outreach as wildfire risk maps expand

City officials presented a wildfire-preparedness briefing to the Riverside City Council on Feb. 24, describing a new defensible-space inspection program tied to updated state fire-hazard maps and municipal code chapter 6.16.

Jada Feld, a community preparedness instructor, said Riverside faces year-round wildfire risk and urged residents to adopt home-hardening measures, plan evacuations and comply with defensible-space rules. Feld said the presentation shows about 17,796 buildings and roughly 24,110 parcels located within fire hazard severity zones and reviewed guidance for Zone 0 (0–5 feet), Zone 1 (5–30 feet) and Zone 2 (30–100 feet) around homes.

Deputy Fire Chief Frank Gazzetta said the ordinance requires jurisdictions to establish a defensible-space inspection program for properties in high and very-high hazard zones; inspections will start no sooner than 30 days after notifications and timing may depend on fuel-drying conditions. The program’s primary goal is education: inspectors will focus on vegetation removal, access, and other safety elements and will offer free home assessments through the city’s 311 app.

Staff also described the Firewise Communities program as a neighborhood-driven approach that requires at least eight homes, a three-year risk assessment and community actions such as a Firewise Day. Becoming a Firewise site can produce signage and documentation residents can use to seek potential insurance discounts.

Council members asked for clarity about responsibilities for adjacent open space and for notice timing; staff said property owners bear primary responsibility within 100 feet of a home but that the city can pursue abatement and identify adjacent owners when necessary. The council received the presentation with council members commending outreach and educational material.