The Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) has released updated 2025 Fire Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ) maps for Local Responsibility Area’s (LRA) across the state. These map updates are intended to enhance California’s approach to wildfire preparedness.
The revised maps incorporate 1.4 million additional acres into high and very high fire hazard severity zones statewide, updating code and construction requirements for communities most at risk.
Adoption and Implementation
Per OSFM, the City of Gilroy has 120 days to adopt these map updates. The updated regulations will apply to those areas located within the City of Gilroy limits.
The maps are available for public view and comment on the City’s Fire Prevention web page.
To provide feedback on the maps or to inquire regarding your property’s designation, please contact the City of Gilroy Fire Marshal by emailing fireprevention@cityofgilroy.org. Please have the property address available.
Background Information
While all of California is subject to some degree of fire hazard, there are specific features that make some areas more hazardous. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) is required by law to map areas of significant fire hazards based on fuels, terrain, weather, and other relevant factors.
The Fire Hazard Severity Zone maps were developed using a science-based and field tested computer model that assigns a hazard score based on the factors that influence fire likelihood and fire behavior. Many factors are considered such as fire history, existing and potential fuel (natural vegetation), flame length, blowing embers, terrain, and typical weather for the area. The State identified three hazard zones in State and Local Responsibility Areas: "Moderate", "High" and "Very High".