STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date: May 2, 2023
To: Honorable Mayor & City Council
From: Gregory Barton, Fire Chief
Gabriella Yap, Sr. Policy & Management Administrator, Public Safety Subject: Update on Beverly Hills Fire Department’s Community Risk Reduction, Emergency Response Services, and Resilience and Recovery Efforts Attachments: 1. Brush Flyer
2. Ready! Set! Go! Flyer
3. Beacon Box
4. OES Type 6 Engine
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended the City Council receive and file this report regarding the Beverly Hills Fire Department (BHFD) Community Risk Reduction, Emergency Response Services, and Resilience and Recovery efforts.
DISCUSSION
With record rainfalls that alleviated California’s years-long drought, BHFD responded to multiple related emergencies such as hillside failures, downed trees, vehicle accidents, and false alarms. As the climate changes and the City moves into fire season, BHFD anticipates there will be additional vegetation and brush, and is being proactive in hardening the City against risk, particularly in the very high fire hazard severity zone (VHFHSZ) that encompasses the north end of the city. BHFD works closely with property owners, businesses, and surrounding agencies to ensure the City is protected and being proactive through prevention, response, resilience and recovery.
Community Risk Reduction
Community Risk Reduction (CRR) is responsible for the enforcement of all local, state, and federal codes related to the safe occupancy of buildings and/or premises. It also extends to the safeguarding of life and property from the hazards of fire and explosion arising from the storage, handling, and use of hazardous substances, materials, and devices as well as hazardous conditions due to the use or occupancy of buildings and/or premises. This fiscal year’s CRR work includes:
Brush Inspection program
Meeting Date: May 2, 2023
o New Codes Adopted November 15, 2022
Stricter seismic design provisions for hillside buildings Expanded use of automatic fire sprinkler systems
Requirement for higher levels of fire resistive construction Enhanced vegetation management standards for new construction and properties located within the City’s VHFHSZ
o Fuel Modification requirements
Updated Training for the BHFD Engine Companies on vegetation standards
Enforcement of vegetation standards
Coordinating with LAFD regarding brush clearance on adjacent properties affecting Beverly Hills
Brush Flyers (Attachment 1) and Ready! Set! Go! flyers (Attachment 2), which were also translated into Spanish and Farsi through a grant, were sent to all property owners.
Removal of high-risk trees in the public right of way, especially those that impede evacuation or have intertwining canopies. Additionally, multiple departments including BHFD, Policy and Management, Community Development, and Public Works are examining the process to remove hazardous trees on private property.
The goal is to remove challenges to removing hazardous trees, such as streamlining the code and permit process and reducing fees. Additional outreach on vegetation standards and inspections in print, social media, the City’s website and signage on message boards in the City Emergency Response Services
Emergency Response Services is responsible for the rapid and timely delivery of emergency services to any incidents which threatens or has the potential to threaten life or property. The division performs all duties related to emergency response (fire, rescue, medical, and hazard abatement), non-emergency service calls, in-service training for all personnel, comprehensive fire preplanning for high risk and special hazard properties, and maintains fire facilities, apparatus, and equipment.
BHFD continues to enhance its suppression response, including implementing the following:
Beacon Boxes – 13 Beacon Boxes placed in north end of the City to provide mutual/auto aid agencies with maps and evacuation routes in the City, FlameMapper modeling showing high-risk areas, and other guides (see Attachment 3)
Outdoor Warning Siren System – Coordinating with Policy and Management’s Emergency Preparedness Division and Public Works to install the sirens and develop protocols and policies. Continue working with the community, surrounding cities and jurisdictional partners to ensure coordination for activations
Painting red curbs in the north end of the City to ensure safety vehicles able to travel in the event of an emergency
OES Type 6 Engine readied for emergency response (Attachment 4) Smokey the Bear at Station 2 signaling weather conditions and red flag days to the public
Red Flag Staffing at Station 2, enhancing response capability on red flag days Meeting Date: May 2, 2023
Three (3) drills with Los Angeles City Fire Department (LAFD) for enhanced coordination
Improved Automatic Aid Agreements with LAFD to increase response capability to brush fires in Beverly Hills
Trousdale Construction Parking enforcement of permits Resilience and Recovery
In a major disaster, Fire and Police Departments may be delayed in their response and it is imperative that communities understand Resilience and Recovery is a shared responsibility. BHFD, through Just in Case BH and Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), has been training and equipping residents to act before, during and after an emergency. Just in Case BH’s goal is to create a neighborhood of CERT-trained neighbors, access to doctors, medical supplies, and a central location for a supply of food and water. The program also enlists block captains to communicate during power and internet outages. Activities BHFD has been engaging in to promote Resilience and Recovery include:
Multi-agency interoperability exercise on October 19th, 20th and 21st between the Beverly Hills Fire Department, Beverly Hills Police Department, Los Angeles Fire Department, Los Angeles Police Department, and the Los Angeles County Fire Department that focused on the evacuation of Coldwater and Franklin Canyons during a simulated brush fire.
Year-Round Trainings and Events
o Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)
o Stop the Bleed
o CPR and AED classes
o Fire extinguisher trainings
Just in Case BH – March 26, 2023, ribbon cutting at La Cienega Park for the City’s first Emergency Supply Container Demonstration and Emergency Preparedness Talk
FlameMapper modeling performed regularly to identify higher risk areas and adjusting the strategic plan as needed
FISCAL IMPACT
There is currently no fiscal impact related to this item.
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended the City Council receive and file this report regarding the Beverly Hills Fire Department Community Risk Reduction, Emergency Response Services, and Resilience and Recovery efforts.
Gregory Barton,
Fire Chief
Approved By
Attachment 1
Dear Property Owners and Residents:
This brochure is provided to communicate your role as a property owner or responsible resident in reducing hazards to make your home “defensible” should a fire occur in your area. All properties located in the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone have the potential of being significantly impacted by wildfires. The Beverly Hills Fire Department has researched and developed a Vegetation Management Program which is focused on improving your safety, improving Firefighter safety, and increasing your home’s ability to withstand a major wildfire in your area. Keeping your property clear of vegetation hazards is a year round responsibility.
The Fire Department Vegetation Management Inspection Program begins every April 1st of each year. To promote community awareness and participation in the Vegetation Management Program, the initial inspection fee will be waived if your property is found to be in compliance with the information provided in this brochure. If violations are found on the initial inspection, you may be assessed a cost recovery fee for firefighter, staff, clerical and mailing costs.
A pre-inspection walk-through of your property with a Fire Inspector can be scheduled by appointment only from December 1st through April 1st. During the appointment, our expert will educate you on how to self-inspect your property throughout the year and identify any landscaping/vegetation abatement concerns. Please note that the pre-inspection walk through is not in lieu of the annual inspections that begin every April 1st. The property owner needs to be present during the entire walk-through, no exceptions. Contact Community Risk Reduction at (310) 281-2703 to make an appointment. Your safety is our commitment. If you have further questions, please contact Community Risk Reduction at (310) 281-2703.
BEVERLY H ILLS FIRE DEPARTMENT
When catastrophic fires occur,
adequate brush clearance may
be the determining factor in
which homes will survive, and
which will be lost.
VEGETATION MANAGEMENT
PROGRAM INFORMATION BROCHURE
AVOID PENALTY FEES EVERY YEAR, Please Read.
BEVERLY HILLS FIRE DEPARTMENT
Community Risk Reduction
445 North Rexford Drive
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Sincerely,
Gregory Barton
Fire Chief
Beverly Hills Fire Department
Schedule an Appointment / Penalty Fees..............................2 Fire Spread/ Fuel Modification............................................3 Where to Clear...................................................................4 Additional Safety Measures................................................5 Reading Your Notification / Violations..................................6 Wood Roof Ordinance.......................................................6 Vegetation Maintenance Requirements.................................7 Firewise Before and After..............................................8, 9 What to Remove / What to Keep..................................10, 11 List of Prohibited Species...................................................12 Questions & Answers.........................................................13 Hazardous Trees / Tree Maintenance..................................14 Home Hardening / Wildfire-Resistance...............................15 Evacuation Route Map insert.....................Middle of Brochure Did you know that your property is located in
the “Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone?”
INSIDE
Brush Clearance
Farsi Translated Brochures
QR CODE
Spanish Translated Brochures
QR CODE
ions / FILE CENTER / Community Risk Reduction
tsresources.targetsolutions.com/55CC7A3D-65B3-A721-
6EE9-2841986C1B43.pdf
FARSI TRANSLATION
Vector Solutions / FILE CENTER / Community Risk Reduction https://s3.amazonaws.com/tsresources.targetsolutions.com/BA7B1CAC-79F3-E277- 6A4E-6E620F2648ED.pdf
SPANISH TRANSLATION
فارسی شده ترجمه بروشورهای Folletos traducidos al español The printing of this brochure was funded by a grant from the California Fire Foundation.
SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT / PENALTY FEES
2 HOW TO COMPLY WITH THE CITY OF BEVERLY HILLS
VEGETATION CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS WHAT IS FUEL MODIFICATION? Do you know where your property lines are? Remember that fences often do not run on property lines. If you do not know your property dimensions, you can access maps from the Los Angeles County Tax Assessor’s office at: www.lacountyassessor.com. The most accurate method is to have a licensed surveyor establish property boundaries.
Fuel Modification is a strip of land between an improved property and wildlands, where combustible vegetation has been removed, thinned, or modified and may be partially or totally replaced with approved drought-tolerant, fire-resistant, and/or irrigated plants to provide an acceptable level of risk from vegetation fires. Fuel modification reduces radiant and convective heat, thereby reducing the amount of heat exposure on the roadway or structure and providing fire suppression personnel a safer area in which to take action. Fuel modification has proven to be a major factor in reducing fire spread onto structures from wildfires.
When combined with special building requirements set forth in CBC Chapter 7A, the ignition of structures is further reduced.
As of January 1, 2023, new Fuel Modification requirements are applicable to the following; new construction, 2,500 sq. ft. of new or re-landscaping, change of occupancy, or construction additions or alterations that require fire sprinklers. Properties located in the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone are subject to the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO) California Code of Regulations Title 23 and required to submit Fuel Modification Landscape Plans for review and approval by the Fire Code Official.
Fuel Modification Submittal
Compliance of fuel modification requirements will be reviewed in collaboration with building and safety. Fuel Modification requirements shall be incorporated into the water efficient landscape plan. Please submit two sets of plans to building and safety for review.
HOW VEGETATION AFFECTS FIRE SPREAD AND INTENSITY
Pine Tree Fire can easily spread from
dry pine needles that accumulate on
tree or surrounding area.
Tree fire too close to structures can
easily ignite and spread the fire by direct
flame impingement or embers.
Embers produced by fire can ignite
structures or surrounding combustibles.
No defensible space can bring
fire/flames to your front door.
Eucalyptus Tree fire can easily spread
from dry bark, and shedding skin, that is
found on trunk or surrounding floor area.
Dry debris can easily
ignite and spread fire.
2 3
4 1
The fire department does not make appointments for brush clearance inspections due to the large number of properties involved and the limited staff to perform the inspections. Inspections are generally conducted randomly during business hours. If the entire property cannot be inspected from the street, a Beverly Hills Fire Department representative will request property access to only the exterior portions of the grounds. Properties with slopes are generally looked at more thoroughly for compliance. The Beverly Hills Fire Department will make every attempt to contact the property owner in regards to conducting a site inspection. If the fire department is unsuccessful at making contact, a notice will be posted to the property. It will be the responsibility of the property to follow-up by contacting the fire department and avoid any non-compliance fees.
If it is absolutely necessary to schedule an
appointment, please contact (310) 281-2718
to coordinate a specific date and time.
INSPECTION FEES TOTAL
No Fee
$493.00
$493.00
$864.00
Actual Cost
INSPECTIONS
No Violation Found on 1st Inspection
Non-Compliance on 1st Inspection
Continued Non-Compliance on 2nd Inspection
Continued Non-Compliance on 3rd Inspection
Lot Clearing by City Staff
If you would like to update your property
contact information for notification pertaining
brush inspections or general updates,
please contact (310) 281-2703 or email
[email protected].
APPOINTMENTS FOR INSPECTIONS
Fees listed below are based on 2023 city approved fee schedule.
For current fees visit:
www.beverlyhills.org/departments/finance/taxesfeescharges/ Self-inspect your property. Compare your vegetation with the diagrams in this brochure. Measure distances from structures to determine what areas require clearance.
Clear hazards and properly remove and dispose of cuttings prior to April 1, the beginning of the Vegetation Clearance Inspection Sweep.
All properties will be charged a cost recovery inspection fee if found to be noncompliant. If you receive a “Notice of Violation,” refer to this brochure to help you understand what additional work needs to be done. Prompt correction (before the compliance due date on the Notice of Violation) is the only way to avoid additional noncompliance reinspection fees. Avoid penalty fees by cleaning vegetation before Fire Inspections are conducted on April 1st.
Fuel Modification Content
A Fuel Modification plan shall include the following information:
1. Delineation of 5 foot, 30 foot, 100 foot, and 200 foot fuel management areas from all structures.
2. All property lines, setbacks, utility poles, easements, fire department access.
3. The topography of any slopes.
4. All vegetated and hardscaped areas.
5. Location and type of any public or private trees within 10 feet of property line.
6. A plant legend with common and scientific names and
expected height and width at maturity of all new and
existing vegetation.
7. Proposed irrigation systems.
8. Tree canopy distances from structures and other canopies.
9. Confirmation that no prohibited vegetation will be placed on the site.
10. Confirmation that existing trees listed in Appendix W, within 30 feet of any structure are to be removed.
11. Signed Fuel Modification Affidavit.
Upon final approval of permit, the landscape architect shall inspect and certify installation of the vegetation in conformance to the approved plan.
Maintenance of vegetation on private property shall be ongoing and the responsibility of property owner per BHMC 4906.8.5.
FIRE SPREAD
3 WHERE TO CLEAR
4 ADDITIONAL SAFETY MEASURES
5 WHERE TO CLEAR
BEFORE BEFORE BEFORE
• Trees located within the proximity of the residence should be maintained in a healthy manner. Thinning out trees, trimming back tree foliage and removing ALL dead material and debris produced by the tree will help reduce the risk.
• Be courteous to your neighbors. Private property vegetation should not cross over to any adjoining neighbor’s property and create a hazardous condition as far as vegetation
overhanging or touching the residence.
• If your vegetation is deemed a fire hazard and crosses into an adjoining property, the Beverly Hills Fire Department notice does not give you permission to trespass onto other properties. Please make every effort to contact and coordinate any possible clean up or remove.
• If you and your neighbor cannot come into agreement on property lines, the city recommends hiring a surveyor to help indicate the property line. The city has tools for reference that can be used, but officially a survey is the best route to confirm.
• Certain vegetation requires more maintenance than others, especially depending on placement of vegetation on your property. Vegetation near structures require more debris maintenance. This is to insure all roofs are clear and proximity to the residence is being maintained.
• There is no fire proof vegetation. Everything can burn and it’s the property owner’s responsibility to maintain their property ALL YEAR ROUND, not just during inspection season.
Slope Stability Problems:
Most brush clearance has little or no effect on slope stability and erosion. If you believe compliance with the brush clearance requirements will seriously increase the risk of slope problem, please contact Community Risk Reduction for more information.
Restricted Parking:
During “Extreme Fire Weather Conditions,” the City of Beverly Hills will restrict parking on certain streets north of Sunset, in the “Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone.” These parking restrictions are required to ensure that residents can evacuate the area and firefighting equipment can get into the area.
For additional information visit beverlyhills.org/redflagwarning.
For daily updates please call 1-310-288-1444 or sign up for alerts for Beverly Hills: Text BEVHILLS to 888777.
COMMON VEGETATION ISSUES
FENCE
FENCE
VACANT LOT
VACANT LOT
VACANT LOT
ROAD
IMPROVED LOT
100’
100’
100’
100’
100’
100’
200’
100’
6 8 9
4 5
7 125’
75’
75’ 75’
50’
75’
125’
Fuel Modification-Areas within 100 ft. of structures.
Defensible Space-Areas within 200 ft. of structures.
Roadside Clearance-Areas within 10 ft. of roadways.
Fence Clearance-Areas within 10 ft. of combustible fences.
ADDITIONAL SAFETY MEASURES AND RECOMMENDATIONS
AFTER AFTER AFTER
You are only responsible for vegetation and
hazards that are on your property.
Requirements apply to any portion of your property that is within 200 feet of any structure, even if the structure is not on your property, including structures across the street.
The area within 100 feet of a structure must be maintained to provide a “Defensible Space” where vegetation is less flammable and not excessive in volume. This “Defensible Space” allows firefighters to work around the structure while protecting it from fire.
The area up to 200 feet from structures is the “Fuel Modification Area.” Reduction of the volume of plant material lessens the likelihood that radiated heat would ignite the structure. In extreme wind-driven fires, flame lengths can reach well beyond 100 feet.
You are only required to clear
on your own property.
Clearance is required:
• within 10 feet of roadways, e.g. (driveway, road, alley) • within 10 feet of combustible fences
• within 200 feet of structures
• within 250 feet of structures with slopes greater
than 25 percent from horizontal plane.
Property lines are shown in green. Large numbers in black squares indicate parcel numbers. • PARCEL 4 needs roadside fence clearance and clearance for house on parcel 5.
• PARCEL 5 needs clearance within 200 feet of house on
parcel 6 and their own house.
• All of PARCEL 6 is within 200 feet of structures and must be cleared.
• PARCEL 7 must clear within 200 feet of house on parcel 6 and within 10 feet of the fence between their land and parcel 8.
• PARCEL 8 must be cleared for house on parcel 5, the roadside and the combustible fences.
• PARCEL 9 needs roadside and combustible fence clearance.
READING YOUR NOTIFICATION
VEGETATION MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS
6 7
How to read your Notice of Violation
• If the fire department finds a violation on your property, a “Notice of Violation” will be mailed with information about the violation(s). The notice can also be emailed to you if you provide us with an email address. • Properties abandoned / vacant will be posted and documented accordingly. Last recorded owner will be responsible for maintenance of property.
• Properties currently undergoing construction or demolition will comply with the same standard. This includes maintaining the property free of debris and combustibles from property. • You can use this brochure to help you understand what the violations mean, and what you need to do about them.
For further information regarding the
wood roof ordinance: Please contact
the Building and Safety Department
at (310) 285-1141 or visit
www.beverlyhills.org/woodroof.
PROPERTY INFO
NOTICE OF INSPECTION
INSPECTION
PROCESS,
REINSPECTION TIME
FRAME & FEES
INSPECTION NOTES
VIOLATIONS NOTED
INSPECTOR
SIGNATURE
PICTURE OF
VIOLATION
INSPECTOR NOTES /
DESCRIPTION
REQUIREMENTS
4907.3.1 Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone Required Maintenance. Persons owning, leasing, controlling, operating, or maintaining buildings or structures in, upon or adjoining Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone areas, and persons owning, leasing, controlling, operating or maintaining land adjacent and within two hundred feet (200’) of such buildings or structures, shall at all times comply with the following:
4906.8.4 Prohibited Vegetation. The planting of prohibited vegetation listed in Appendix V, is a violation of this code and shall be removed at the expense of the property owner.
4907.3.6 Vegetation Assessment. The Fire Code Official can require a vegetation assessment by a licensed arborist to verify and confirm the health of tree species and or vegetation without charge to the jurisdiction.
More Information: COMMUNITY RISK REDUCTION AT (310) 281-2703
READING YOUR NOTIFICATION
WOOD ROOF ORDINANCE 4907.3.3 Authority of the Fire Chief to modify brush clearing requirements.
Nothing contained in this subsection shall be deemed to preclude the Fire Chief from requiring more than the minimum specific requirements set forth above when the fire chief determines that conditions exist which necessitate greater fire protection measures.
Remove all dead, dry, and overgrown brush, weeds, grass, and hazardous vegetation for a distance of two hundred feet (200’) of any structure, regardless of whether said structure is located upon such land or upon adjacent land. For
properties containing a slope, as defined in Section 4902, the vegetation clearance distance shall be no less than two hundred and fifty feet (250’) from any structure. This may be accomplished by reducing vegetation through thinning, pruning or removal per the Fire Code Official.
Erosion to hillsides and slopes shall be prevented by the following:
1. Dead and dry, grass or vegetation, on a hillside or
slope shall be maintained no taller than 3” in height
to prevent disturbance to soil.
2. Dead trees removed on a hillside or slope are
permitted to have a stump up to 3 feet in height
to prevent disturbance to soil.
All brush, weeds, grass, and hazardous vegetation within ten feet (10’) of any combustible fence shall be maintained at a height of not more than three inches (3”) above the ground.
Remove all vegetation underneath all decks, platforms,
and balconies. No combustible debris shall be allowed to accumulate underneath said areas.
Vines and climbing plants attached to structures must be maintained in a well-watered condition, free of excessive dead material and trimmed to minimize fire propagation.
Failure to maintain shall require immediate abatement.
All roofs and rain gutters on any structure shall be kept free of combustible material such as fallen leaves, needles, twigs, bark, cones and small branches.
Trees shall be maintained to establish a minimum five foot (5’) separation from any portion of the roof. For structures with existing wood roofs, that minimum separation shall be extended to a ten foot (10’) separation from any portion of the roof. Exception: Existing trees that are maintained, thinned out, and/or trimmed to the satisfaction of the Fire Code Official.
Trees shall be maintained so that no portion is closer than ten feet (10’) from the outlet of any chimney, stovetop, and approved open flame decorative device.
Any existing Cedar, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Juniper or Pine Tree, shall be maintained to minimize the fire risk and hazard, as directed by the Fire Code Official. Tree crowns and canopies shall be separated a minimum of ten feet (10’) horizontally, from all other tree crowns and canopies located on private, public, or adjoining properties. In cases where trimming or thinning is not adequate, cutting or removal of the tree may be required. No intertwining of vertical or horizontal ladder fuels into public or private tree canopies shall take place.
Where shrubs are located below or within a tree’s drip line, the distance between the lowest tree branches shall be a minimum of one-third of the height of the tree. For trees taller than 18 feet, the minimum separation shall be 6 feet.
All vegetation on private property, adjacent to a public street, alley, or sidewalk, shall be trimmed and maintained so as not to cause an obstruction to pedestrian and
vehicular access. Fire Department apparatus access requires a minimum of 14 feet in height from grade.
Dead material shall be removed from live plants, trees, or other vegetation. Dead material includes deadwood, parts of dead or dry vegetation, and dry bearded palm fronds.
All dead trees and vegetation shall be completely removed from the property.
All vegetation shall be maintained in such a manner to
lessen the fuel supply and to augment the spread or intensity of a fire by breaking fuel continuity. Separation shall be provided between ground, ladder, and aerial fuel vegetation as specified by the Fire Code Official.
Other Safety Measures: Firewood piles shall be located
15 feet away from any structure unless covered by an
approved fire resistive tarp or placed in a non-combustible bin. Organic mulch, woodchips or similar combustible
products shall not be placed within 5 feet of any structure or combustible perimeter fence.
Remove and safely dispose of all cut or bagged vegetation debris which includes grass, shrubs, trees, or similar
combustible vegetation/waste.
ADDITIONAL CODE REQUIREMENTS
1 2
3 4
5 6
7 8
9 10
11 12
13 14
15 FIREWISE BEFORE AND AFTER
FIREWISE BEFORE AND AFTER
9 10
11 12
13 14
VEGETATION MANAGEMENT
RAIN GUTTERS - Keep rain gutters clear or enclose rain
gutters to prevent accumulation of plant debris.
LAWN - Mow lawns regularly and remove all dead dry or
overgrown vegetation on your property.
COMBUSTIBLES - Wood piles, grills must be kept a minimum of 15 feet from structures and combustible mulch 5 feet away from structures.
TREES - Tree canopies must be kept a minimum of 5 feet away from structures,10 feet from other tree canopies, and 10 feet from chimneys. Trim low branches to create a minimum of 6 feet of separation from low-level vegetation. Trim any branches that are impeding streets or sidewalks.
EMERGENCY SERVICES - Make sure your house number is
visible. Place the number in a prominent place and remove and vegetation that may be obscuring it. Make sure the fire hydrant is accessible. Remove vegetation that may inhibit its use. If you have a gated driveway, make sure emergency services can get through.
10 10 10
11 11 11
12 12
12 13
13 13
14 14
14 VEGETATION MANAGEMENT
RAIN GUTTERS - Vegetation Debris can easily accumulate in rain gutters and roof. Embers can easily ignite vulnerable areas.
LAWN - Overgrown grass and weeds can easily provide a
continuous fuel source to spread fire.
COMBUSTIBLES - Embers can easily ignite combustibles near the structure such as furniture, wood piles, and mulch. This makes your structure vulnerable to direct flame contact.
TREES / VEGETATION CONTINUITY - Tree canopies can spread fire to nearby structures and to other tree canopies. Sparks and embers from chimneys can gnite nearby branches. Branches that are too close to ground vegetation create a “ladder” for fire to travel between the ground and the canopy. Trim any branches that are impeding streets or sidewalks.
EMERGENCY SERVICES - Vegetation covering address numbers make it difficult for emergency services to locate. Vegetation overgrowing / covering hydrants makes it hard to locate and use in an emergency. Locked gates slows emergency
responders from gaining access onto your property.
VULNERABLE
NON-FIREWISE
PROPERTIES
FIREWISE
PROPERTIES
8 1 1
2 2
3 3
4 4
5 5
6 6
8 8
9 9
7 7
1 2
3 4
5 6
8 9
7 HOME HARDENING
ROOF - Class A roof material is the best protection for your home. Block any spaces between roof decking and covering to prevent embers from catching.
SKYLIGHTS - Glass is a better choice than plastic or fiberglass.
Plastic can melt and allow embers into the home.
DECKS - Surfaces should be built with ignition-resistant, noncombustible, or other approved materials. Ensure that all combustible items are removed from underneath your deck.
EAVES AND SOFFITS - Eaves and soffits should be protected with ignition-resistant or non-combustible materials. (boxed-in eaves provide best protection)
VENTS - Cover all vent openings with 1/8-inch metal mesh.
Do not use fiberglass or plastic mesh because they can melt and burn. Use ember and flame resistant vents (WUI vents).
EXTERIOR WALLS / SIDING - Build or remodel your walls
with ignition resistant building materials, such as stucco, fiber cement wall siding, fire retardant, treated wood, or other approved materials. Be sure to extend materials from the foundation to the roof.
WINDOWS - Install dual-paned windows with one pane of
tempered glass to reduce the chance of breakage in a fire.
Consider limiting the size and number of windows that face large areas of vegetation.
GARAGE - Install weather stripping around and under the garage door to prevent embers from blowing in. Store all combustible and flammable liquids away from ignition sources.
FENCES - Consider using ignition-resistant or non-combustible fence materials within the first 5 feet of the home.
12 HOME HARDENING
ROOF - The roof is the most vulnerable part of your home.
Homes with wood or shingle roofs are at high risk of being destroyed during a wildfire.
SKYLIGHTS - Heat and embers from wildfires can weaken
and melt openings such as skylights or solar tunnels.
DECKS - Decks are vulnerable to fires from embers igniting vegetation or stored materials igniting below the deck or ignition of the top of the deck and its combustible material.
EAVES AND SOFFITS - Open eaves can trap heat and allow
embers to enter through under-eave attic vents.
VENTS - Vents and openings to homes create vulnerabilities.
Embers can easily slip through crawl spaces, roof or attic vents.
Once inside, embers can ignite debris, stored items, exposed wood framing and insulation.
EXTERIOR WALLS / SIDING - Wood products, such as boards, panels or shingles, are common siding materials. Gaps and joints in this siding can create places where flame penetration can occur. Poorly maintained or degraded siding is also vulnerable to flame penetration.
WINDOWS - Heat from a wildfire can cause windows to break even before the home is on fire. This allows burning embers to enter and start fires inside. Single-paned and large windows are particularly vulnerable.
GARAGE - Garages store a lot of combustibles and may open directly into the house. Garage doors not properly sealed can let embers enter the garage and catch combustibles
and house on fire.
FENCES - Avoid placing combustible fencing within 5 feet of home. Combustible fencing can easily ignite and be an immediate threat to your home.
1 2
3 4
5 6
8 9
7 WHAT TO REMOVE / WHAT TO KEEP
10 Overgrown Brush
or Shrubs
Tall Grass
& Weeds
BEFORE
HEIGHT EXPLANATION
What to Remove
1. Remove dead limbs, branches
and other combustible material
from portions of trees adjacent
to or overhanging any building
or structure.
2. Prune branches to remove all
vegetation within 10 feet of any
chimney outlet.
3. Prune branches to remove all
foliage directly above roof
surfaces to provide a five-foot
vertical separation between the
Higher than 15 feet above ground
roof and the foliage.
6 to 15 feet above ground 3 inches to 6 feet above ground 0 to 3
inches
above
ground
4. Requirements 1, 2 and 3 from above
apply in this height range.
5. Remove all dead vegetation.
6. Prune branches to remove all foliage
lower than 6 feet from all trees,
brush and shrubs taller than 18 feet
in height.
7. Prune branches to remove all foliage
from the lowest 1/3 of all trees, brush
and shrubs less than 18 feet in height.
8. Remove all dead vegetation.
9. Cut grass and weeds to a maximum
height of 3 inches.
10. Remove Pine needles, leaves, weeds,
debris from groundcover. Trees
stumps, roots are ok to prevent
erosion issues.
Dead Foliage
UNTRIMMED TREE
Low Foliage
AFTER
Shrubs and brush
with woody stems need
to be trimmed up 1/3
from the ground.
HORIZONTAL CLEARANCE
Tree crown to be 10 feet from other trees and
5 feet from structures (non flammable).
Grass 3 inches in height
What to Keep
1. Tree and shrub branches and foliage.
2. Cultivated landscape vegetation.
WHAT TO REMOVE / WHAT TO KEEP
11 3. Tree and shrub foliage.
4. Cultivated landscape vegetation.
5. Trunks of trees over 18 feet in height
(no foliage in bottom 6 feet).
6. Foliage of shrubs and trees less than
18 feet tall.
7. Cultivated landscape vegetation.
8. Groundcover, grass and weeds (dead
or alive) with no more than 3 inches in
height is ok to prevent erosion issues.
Trees 18 feet or greater to
have a minimum 6 foot
clearance off the ground.
Trees less than 18 feet shall
have 1/3 foliage trimmed off
the ground.
MAINTAINED /
THINNED TREE
*Identified as target vegetation species.
Some plants are particularly susceptible to fire due to their characteristics. These characteristics can be either physical or chemical.
Examples of physical properties would be large amounts of dead material retained within the plant, rough peeling bark, and the production of copious amounts of litter. Examples of chemical properties would be presence of volatile substances such as oils, resins, wax, and pitch. Certain native plants are notorious for containing these volatile substances.
Any vegetation with these characteristics shall not be planted on properties located in the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone.
Should these species listed below exist within the VHFHSZ, they should be removed or aggressively maintained. Replanting prohibited existing vegetation that becomes dead or diseased shall be replaced with vegetation that is not indicated below.
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
13 CITY OF BEVERLY HILLS FIRE DEPARTMENT FIRE-PRONE /
PROHIBITED VEGETATION QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
Archonphoenix cunninghamiana King Palm*
Archonphoenix alexandrae King Palm*
Abies Spp Firs
Acacia Spp. Acacia species
Adenostoma fasciculatum* Chamise, Greasewood*
Adenostoma sparsifolium* Red Shank*
Agonis juniperina Juniper Myrtle
Agropyron repens Quackgrass
Anthemis cotula* Mayweed*
Araucaria citrinus Araucaria Monkey Puzzle Tree
Araucaria bidwillii Araucaria Bunya Bunya
Arbutus menziesii Madrone
Arctostaphylos Spp. Manzanita
Arenga engleri Formosa Sugarpalm
Artemisia abrotanium Southernwood Sagebush
Artemisia absinthium Wormwood Sagebush
Artemisia californica* California Sagebrush*
Artemisia caucascia Silver Sagebush
Artemisia dracunculus True tarragon Sabebush
Artemisia tridentata Big Sagebush
Artemisia pynocephala Sandhill Sagebush
Arundo donax Giant Reed
Avena fatua Wild Oat
Bambusa Spp.* Bamboo*
Baccharis pilularis Coyote Brush
Bougainvillea Spp. Bougainvillea
Brahea armata Blue Hesper Palm
Brahea brandegeei San Jose Hesper Palm
Brahea edulis Guadlupe Palm
Brassica nigra* Black Mustard*
Brassica rapa* Yellow Mustard, Field Mustard*
Bromus rubens Foxtail, Red Brome
Butia capitata Jelly or Pindo Palm
Callistemon citrinus Bottlebrush Lemon
Callistemon rosea Bottlebrush Rose
Callistemon viminalis Bottlebrush Weeping
Cardaria draba* Noary Cypress, Peppergrass*
Casuarina cunninghamiana River She-oak
Castanopsis chrysophylla Giant Chinquapin
Cedrus Spp.* Cedars*
Chamaecyparis Spp. False Cypress
Chamaerops humilis Mediterranean Fan Palms
Cinnamomum camphora Camphora
Cirsium vulgare* Wild Artichoke*
Conyza Canadensis* Horseweed*
Coprosma pumila Prostrate Coprosma
Cortaderia jubata Chinquapin, Giant
Cortaderia selloana* Pampas Grass*
Cryptomeria japonica Japanese Cryptomeria
Cupressus Spp.* Cypress*
Cynara cardunculus* Artichoke Thistle*
Cytisus scoparius Scotch Broom
Delosperma “alba” White Trailing Ice Plant
Drosanthemum floribundum Rosea Ice Plant
Dodonea viscose Hopseed Bush
Eriodictyon californicum Yerba Santa
Erigonum fasciculatum* Common Buckwheat*
Eucalyptus Spp.* Eucalyptus*
Fremontodendron Flannel Bush
Helix canariensis English ivy
Heterothaca grandiflora* Telegraph Plant*
Hordeum leporinum Wild Barley
Howea forsteriana Sentry Palm
Jubaea chilensis Chilean Wine Palm
Juniperus Spp.* Juniper*
Lactuca serriola* Prickly Lettuce*
Lamprathus aurantiacus Bush Ice Plant
Lamprathus spectabilis Trailing Ice Plant
Larix Spp. Larch
larrea tridentata Creosote Bush
Leptospermum laevigatum Australian Tea
Leptospermum petersonii Tea Tree
Livistona chinensis Chinese Fan Palm
Lolium multiflorum Ryegrass
Lonicera japonica Japanese Honeysuckle
Mahonia Spp. Mahonia
Melaleuca Spp. Melaleuca
Mimulus aurantiacus Sticky Monkeyflower
Miscanthus Eulalia Grass
Muhlenbergia Deer Grass
Nassella / Stipa tenuissima* Mexican Feathergrass*
Nicotania bigelevil* Indian Tobacco*
Nicotania glauca* Tree Tobacco*
Pennisetum Spp. Fountain Grass
Perronskia atriplicifloria Russian Sage
Phoenix canariensis Canary Island Date Palm
Phoenix dactylifera Date Palm
Phoenix reclinata Senegal Date Palm
Phoenix roebelenii Pygmy Date Palm
Phoradendron atroplicifolia Mistletoe
Pickeringia montana Chaparral Pea
Picea Spp. Spruces
Pinus Spp.* Pines*
Platycladus orientalis Oriental Arborvitae
Pseudotsuga menziesii Douglas Fir
Rhus Spp.* Sumac*
Ricinus communis* Caster Bean Plant*
Rosmarinus officinalis Rosemary
Sabal pametto Cabbage Palm Tree
Sacsola austails* Russian Thistle/Tumbleweed*
Salvia mellifera* Black Sage*
Schinus molle California pepper tree
Schinus terebenthifo Brazilian pepper tree
Silybum marianum* Milk Thistle*
Syagrus romanzoffiana Queen Palm
Tamarix Spp. Tamarix
Taxus Spp. Yew
Thuja Spp. Abborvitae
Trachycarpus fortunei Windmill Palm
Trachycarpus wagnerianu Dwarf Chusan Palm
Trithrinax campestris Bluse Needle Palm
Tsuga Spp. Hemlock
Urtica Urens* Burning Nettle*
Washingtonia filifera* California Fan Palm*
Washingtonia robusta* Mexican Fan Palm*
SPECIES COMMON NAME(S) SPECIES COMMON NAME(S) SPECIES COMMON NAME(S) Can the Beverly Hills Fire Department address the
tree that is overhanging onto my property?
The Fire Department can address the overhanging tree(s) only if it’s dead or dry. If the tree is still green and lush, it becomes a civil matter. The Fire Department personnel are not arborists and may recommend that you hire one to confirm the viability and stability of the tree. The City does not get involved in neighbor disputes or civil matters such as tree litter production, tree nuisance, etc. The Fire Department only responds/investigates fire hazards. If there are issues with view, please contact Community Development Department at (310) 285-1141.
What can the Fire Department do about my
neighbor’s tree touching the power lines?
The City of Beverly Hills obtains power from Southern California Edison (SCE). If you have concerns with trees touching power lines please contact SCE at (800) 655-4555. To arrange an inspection by Edison call (800) 640-3652. For any power line/ electrical emergencies immediately call 911.
There is a dead/dry tree near the right-of-way. Is
that my responsibility to remove or is that the City’s? If you would like clarification on who would be responsible to remove/clean up the tree, please contact the Public Works customer service line at (310) 285-2467.
I reside in the City of Beverly Hills. There is a
property adjacent to mine that is located in the
City of Los Angeles which has overgrown dead
vegetation and I feel it is a fire hazard. Can the
City of Beverly Hills Fire Department address the
fire hazard?
Unfortunately, the City of Beverly Hills Fire Department cannot enforce outside of our city’s jurisdiction. If you have any concerns pertaining to brush in the City of Los Angeles, you can contact them at (800) 994-4444 or email them at [email protected] Who is responsible for tree maintenance and
cleanup of a city tree in the right-of-way?
The property owner is responsible for watering the tree and removing falling leaves and fruit. The city trims these trees and may remove and replace as necessary.
Can I randomly remove a tree that is located on
my private property?
Most trees on private property can be removed without a permit.
However, trees that qualify as a heritage tree, native tree, or are part of an urban grove require a Tree Removal Permit issued by Community Development Department, and further information is available at beverlyhills.org/trees.
What is the brush clearance program?
This annual program was established by the city in 2007. It is specific to all properties located in the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone area (North of Sunset). The purpose of this program is to address the maintenance, reduction, and removal of all the hazardous vegetation located on private property which can contribute to a wildfire. This program is also identified as “Vegetation Management.”
Why did I receive a non-compliance penalty fee
for my vegetation?
To avoid penalty fees, all properties located in the Fire Hazard Zones are required to be in compliance with the Beverly Hills Municipal Code 4907 requirements by every April 1st. If your property is found compliant on the initial inspection, there is no fee. If a violation is found on the first initial inspection a penalty fee will be assessed. All additional inspections, including legal fees, will be assessed to the property owner until compliance is met. *If an extension is needed, please contact the Beverly Hills Fire Department prior to April 1st.
Besides addressing the vegetation on my property,
are there any other solutions to help give my home
a fighting chance during a wildfire?
Yes, Home Hardening is a great way to give your home a fighting chance if a wildfire occurs. Visit beverlyhills.org/Homehardening.
LIST OF PROHIBITED SPECIES
12 HOME HARDENING l WILDFIRE-RESISTANCE
14 15
TREE MAINTENANCE
It is important that the following trees Eucalyptus,
Cedars, Cypress, Juniper and Pine are kept healthy
and well maintained in the VHFHSZ. Maintaining these
trees removes dead material stuck within the tree,
break continuity between trees and trims foliage from
overhanging structures.
Certain species of trees require proper trimming only
during certain seasons. It is the sole responsibility of the property owner to coordinate these seasonal maintenance schedules and make sure they are addressed before fire
inspection season. If there is difficulty in coordinating, please advise the fire department before the upcoming
fire inspection season. If the fire department is not
advised and trees are not addressed properly, penalty
fees will be assessed.
Common hazards found with these particular trees are as follows: Oily, trapped dead / dry material stuck within the tree, large debris production such as leafy, peeling bark, and pine needles.
HAZARDOUS TREES HOME HARDENING WILDFIRE-RESISTANCE
BESIDES VEGETATION MAINTENANCE, ARE THERE OTHER
RECOMMENDATIONS TO HELP REDUCE THE WILDFIRE RISK TO MY HOME? Yes, another means to protecting your home is through “Home Hardening.” Home hardening means your home is prepared for wildfire and an ember storm. It does not mean fireproof. Home hardening addresses the most vulnerable components of your house with building materials and installation techniques that increase resistance to heat, flames, and embers that accompany most wildfires.
Home Hardening and Vegetation Maintenance increases the survivability of your home during a wildfire significantly.
Here are a list of common vulnerability areas around your home:
FACTS: Remember that wind-driven embers, not flames from the wildfire, are the biggest threat to residential properties during a wildfire.
Once these embers land on and ignite combustible materials, the potential for the wildfire to spread is much greater. Home hardening improvements combined with vegetation maintenance significantly increases the survivability of your home during a wildfire.
The following trees listed below have been identified by the city as “Hazardous Trees” and require a more frequent and aggressive maintenance schedule due to their hazard characteristics. Thinning, cleaning and separating these trees from other vegetation both horizontally and vertically will reduce the risk significantly.
Juniper
Eucalyptus
Pine
Cedars Cypress
ROOF
Wood shingle
EAVES
Open|Exposed
SIDING
Wood Siding
WINDOWS
Single pane
No screens
MULCH/GROUND COVER
Bark|Wood Chips
OPENINGS
Non-Protected
Vents|Openings
DECK
Standard spacing
Combustible material
1 1
2 2
3 3
4 4
5 5
6 6
7 7
1 1
2 2
3 3
4 4
5 5
6 6
7 7
ROOF
Class A
Fire resistive
EAVES
Closed|Boxed
SIDING
Fire resistive material
WINDOWS
Dual-Pane Tempered
Screens
MULCH/GROUND COVER
Rock|Pebbles
OPENINGS
Metal screened
Vents|Openings
DECK
Increased joist space
Foil-faced bitumen
tape on top of joists
Non-combustible|
Fire resistive
ROOF – Avoid wood roofs, install Class A roof /
Plugs gaps between roof covering & sheathing /
Cover tile cap ends.
*Ignition-resistant building materials are those that resist ignition or sustained burning when exposed to embers and small flames from wildfires. Examples of ignition-resistant materials include “noncombustible materials” that don’t burn, exterior grade fire-retardanttreated wood lumber, fire-retardant-treated wood shakes and shingles listed by the State Fire Marshal (SFM) and any material that has been tested in accordance with SFM Standard 12-7A-5.
DECKS – Use ignition resistant material / Avoid
vegetation growth underneath deck.
FENCES – Use ignition resistant material / avoid
attaching combustible fences to structures.
EAVES / SOFFITS – Wherever possible enclose
open eaves / Caulk and plug exposed rafters
and blocking.
VENTS – Upgrade vents with 1/8” metal mesh /
Install approved ember-catching vents.
GARAGE – Install weather stripping around and
under garage door.
WINDOWS / GLASS DOORS / SKYLIGHTS – Install
or upgrade to Multi-pane tempered glass / Keep
vegetation or combustible material (Furniture)
5 feet from glass openings.
RAIN GUTTERS – Inspect and clean gutters regularly
/ install non-combustible rain gutter screens to
reduce accumulated debris.
PATIO COVERS / WINDOW AWNINGS – Use
ignition resistant material.
SIDING – Use ignition resistant material / Maintain
6 inches of vertical noncombustible material
between the ground and the start of the siding.
HAZARDOUS TREES / TREE MAINTENANCE
N R ODE O DR
S S ANTA MONICA BLVD
N CANON
DR
WHIT TIE R
D
R
DOHE NY R D
ANGE LO DR
BE VE R LY BLVD
N
PALM
DR
N
BE VE R LY
DR
S UNS E T
BLVD
B E NEDICT CANYON
DR
DAY TON WY
BUR TON WY
C
ORDE LL
DR
W S UNSE T BLVD
E LE VADO AV
C IVIC C E NTE R DR
C AR ME LITA AV
LEXINGTON R D
N
MAP
LE
DR
C INTHIA S T
N MAP LE DR
N PALM DR
N OAKHUR S T DR
W SUNS E T B LVD
FO
OTHILL R D
C HE R OKE E LN
HE A THER RD
FLIC K E R
WY
N CAMDE N DR
WALDE N DR
LOMITAS AV
N
FOOTHILL R D
S AN CIR
C
A
R LA
RDGE
ARKELL DR
HAR TFORD
W Y
GILC R E S T DR
N LINDE N DR
N
ALTA
DR
N
AR DE N
DR
LANI A LN
BE V
E R LY
PAR K
PAR K WY
R EA
D
C
R E ST
DR LLOYDCRES T DR
G L EN
W Y
LOMALIN D A DR
B R
AI R C R E S T
RD
N
BE DFOR D DR
U S
HER PL
CAS TLE PL
WALLAC E R D
G
E
LADE R A DR
HAY NE S AV
D
A
WNR ID
G E DR
ROBE R T LN
DE
LRE S T
O
DR
K
MI R ID GE R
D
COV E W Y
BE V ERLY C
R
E S T
DR
LAURE L WY
C
OLD
W
ATE R CANYON DR
SUMMIT
DR
S
U
M
MIT R IDGE DR
MOUNTAIN DR
LOMA VIS TA DR
LO
MA VIS
TA
DR
N DOHE NYDR
B E VE RLY
N ALPINE DR
L IN
D
AC
RE S T
DR
ALTO
CE DR
O
D R
TOWE R R D
S IE RR
A
ALTA
WY
N
R OXBUR Y
DR
T
O WER G
R
O
VE DR
LA
K E DR
LAKE DR
N C R E S CE NT DR
S AN
Y S IDR O
DR
S A
N
Y S IDR O
DR
W OODLAN
D
DR
N S IE R R A
DR
HILLC R E S T
DR
N B E VE
R LY
DR
N HIL LC R E S T R D
N
HILLC R E S T R
D
N
HILLC
R E S
T
R
D
M
ARILY
N
DR
CAR O L Y NWY
N
E LM
DR
HAZE N DR
T U LIS D R
CALL E
VISTA DR
BE T TY L N
N OAKHUR S T DR
CR E S T WICK DR
LAK E F R
ANKLIN
DR
BO
W
M
ONT DR
TR OUSDA L E P L
F E R R A R I DR
M
A
R T I N L N
MOR E L
A
N
D
DR
CHALE TTE DR
S C HUY LE R RD
E 0 0.125 0.25 0.5
Miles
0 500 1,000 2,000
Feet
1:13,120
S C HUY LE R RD
RDGE
C
A
R LA
Wild Fire Evacuation Routes - City of Beverly Hills
City Boundary
Evacuation Route
Parcel
Fire Hazard Severity Zone
Very High
This map is for informational purposes. The City of
Beverly Hills makes no representations or warranties
of any kind with respect to the accuracy of the
information or data furnis hed herein.
Map produced by: C ity of B everly Hills - IT - GIS
455 N. R exford Dr. Beverly Hills , CA 90210
October, 2018
The printing of this poster
was funded by a grant from the
California Fire Foundation.
Attachment 2
READY! SET! GO!
YOUR PERSONAL WILDFIRE ACTION PLAN
Beverly Hills is one of the most beautiful places to live, but living in the urban interface doesn’t come without its risks. The fire season is now a year-round reality, requiring firefighters and residents to constantly be on heightened alert for the threat of wildfire.
The Beverly Hills Fire Department takes every precaution to help protect you and your property from wildfire. However, the reality is that in the event of a major wildfire, there will simply not be enough fire engines or firefighters to defend every home in the early stages of the incident. This reality requires you to take personal responsibility for protecting yourself, your family, and your property.
Wildfires fueled by dry vegetation and driven by hot, dry winds, are extremely dangerous and impossible to control. Many residents have built their homes and landscaped without fully understanding the impact a fire could have on them. Few have adequately prepared their families for a quick evacuation. Many don’t fully know the potential consequences of choosing to ignore an evacuation order until it is too late.
This publication will give you the tips and tools to successfully prepare for a wildfire. It will give you guidance on retrofitting your home with ignition-resistive features. It will help you create the necessary defensible space around your home. BHFD always recommends that you comply with any evacuation orders resulting from wildfire. This publication will help you prepare your home, yourself, and your family so you can go early, well ahead of the fast-approaching wildfire.
It’s not a question of “if”, but “when”, the next major wildfire will occur in Beverly Hills. That’s why the most important person in protecting your life and property is not the firefighter, but you. Through advanced planning and preparation, we can all be ready for a wildfire. I hope you find the tips included in this publication helpful in creating heightened awareness and a more fire-safe environment for you and your family.
Your Fire Chief,
Gregory Barton
Beverly Hills Fire Department
Ready! Set! Go! is also supported by:
©2010 BHFD
READY! SET!
GO!
Wildfire
Action Plan
Saving Lives and Property
through Advance Planning
INSIDE
Get READY - Create a Defensible Home 3
What is Defensible Space? 4
What is a Hardened Home? 5
Tour a Wildfire-Ready Home 6-7
Get SET - Prepare Your Family 8
Before the Fire Approaches Checklist 9
GO Early Checklist 10
Your Own Wildfire Action Plan 11
Additional Safety Measures 12
Before and After 13
Common Hazards 14
Fire Department Program Services 15
A defensible home is a home that has the greatest potential for survivability in the event of a wildfire during average wind conditions. Defensible homes are those homes that are in compliance with defensible space requirements or a fuel modification program and have been hardened in accordance with Chapter 7A of the California Building Code.
Fuel Modification is a strip of land between an improved property and wildlands, where combustible vegetation has been removed, thinned, or modified and may be partially or totally replaced with approved drought-tolerant, fire-resistant, and/or irrigated plants to provide an acceptable level of risk from vegetation fires. 3 Get READY - Create a Defensible Home
What is Fuel Modification?
Fuel modification reduces radiant and convective heat,
thereby reducing the amount of heat exposure on the
roadway or structure and providing fire suppression
personnel a safer area in which to take action. Fuel
modification has proven to be a major factor in reducing fire spread onto structures from wildfires. When combined with special building requirements set forth in CBC
Chapter 7A, the ignition of structures is further reduced.
As of January 1, 2023, new Fuel Modification
requirements are applicable to the following; new
construction, 2,500 sq. ft. of new or re-landscaping,
change of occupancy, or construction additions or
alterations that require fire sprinklers. Properties located in the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone are subject
to the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance
(MWELO) California Code of Regulations Title 23 and
required to submit Fuel Modification Landscape Plans
for review and approval by the Fire Code Official.
See link below for Fuel Modification Standard, prohibited vegetation and additional requirements.
http://www.beverlyhills.org/fuelmodification
4 0-200 FEET
Extends 200 feet out from buildings, structures, decks, etc. • Remove ALL dead, dry or overgrown vegetation
• Trim tree canopies regularly to keep their branches a minimum of 5 feet from structures and 10 feet from other trees. • Remove vegetation produced debris (dry leaves, pine needles and trimmings) from yard, roof and rain gutters. • Relocate wood piles and other combustible materials at least 15 feet away from structures. • Remove combustible material and vegetation that are close to and under decks or any part of the structure. • Remove or prune vegetation near windows and vents.
• Avoid placing combustible mulch adjacent to structure. • Remove “Ladder Fuels” (low-level vegetation that allows the fire to spread from the ground to the tree canopy.) Create a separation between low-level vegetation and tree branches. This can only be done by reducing the height of low-level vegetation and / or trimming low tree branches.
ADDITIONAL 50 FEET
Extends from 200 feet to an additional 50 feet from buildings, structures, decks, etc. This additional 50’ clearance applies if your property has a slope greater than 25 percent from horizontal plans.
Defensible space is the required space between a structure and the wildland that, under normal conditions creates a sufficient buffer to slow or halt the spread of wildfire to a structure. It protects the home from igniting due to direct flame impingement and radiant heat. Compliance is essential for survivability during wildfire conditions. Defensible space requirements apply to all structures regardless of the year built. To help improve defensible space and reduce hazardous conditions produced by vegetation, the Beverly Hills Fire Department conducts annual inspections of ALL properties located in the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHSZ), located to the North of Sunset Blvd. For additional information and requirements, please visit the following site www.beverlyhills.org/fdbrush What is Defensible Space ?
What is a Hardened Home ?
EAVES
Embers gather under open eaves and ignite exposed wood or other combustible material.
VENTS
Embers enter the attic, crawl spaces or other concealed spaces and ignite combustible materials. Vents in eaves and cornices are particularly vulnerable, as are any unscreened vents. Keeping vegetation clear and away from all vents prevents embers from constantly being directed into openings.
WALLS
Combustible siding and other combustible or overlapping materials provide a surface and crevice for embers to nestle and ignite.
WINDOWS, DOORS & GARAGE
Embers can enter gaps in doors, including garage doors. Plants or combustible storage near windows can be ignited from embers and generate heat that can break windows and/or melt combustible frames.
BALCONIES, DECKS & FENCES
Embers collect in or on combustible surfaces or undersides of deck and balconies, ignite the material, and enter home through walls or windows. Place non-combustible fencing within the first 5 feet when attached to the house.
To harden your home even further, consider a residential fire sprinkler system. In addition to extinguishing a fire started by an ember that enters your home, it also protects you and your family 24/7, year-round, from any fire that may start in your home.
EXTERIOR FURNISHINGS
Wood or plastic furniture can easily catch fire from embers. Keep furniture from being placed adjacent to residence. Storing away cushions will help reduce material from igniting.
RAIN GUTTERS
Embers can ignite debris collected in rain gutters. Placing proper screens will help prevent debris accumulation.
ROOFS
Roofs are the most vulnerable surface where embers land because they can lodge and start a fire. Roof valleys, open ends of barrel tiles are all points of entry for embers.
Are you Fire Ember Protection Ready?...
5 What gives a home the best chance to survive a wildfire are its construction materials and the quality of the defensible space surrounding it. Embers from a wildfire will find the weak link in your home’s fire protection scheme and gain the upper hand because of a small, overlooked or seemingly inconsequential factor. However, there are measures you can take to safeguard your home from wildfire. each will increase your home’s, and possibly your family’s, safety and survival during a wildfire. Each measure below will increase your home’s, and possibly your family’s, safety and survival during a wildfire.
Home Site and Yard: Ensure you have at least a 100-foot radius of defensible space (cleared vegetation) around your home. Note that even more clearance may be needed for homes in severe hazard areas. This means looking past what you own to determine the impact a common slope or neighbor’s yard will have on your property during a wildfire.
Cut dry weeds and grass before noon when temperatures are cooler to reduce the chance of sparking a fire.
Landscape with fire-resistant plants that have a high moisture content and are low-growing.
Keep woodpiles, propane tanks and combustible materials away from your home and other structures such as garages, barns and sheds.
Ensure that trees are far away from power lines.
See our website for a list of plants and planting criteria.
Vents: Vents on homes are particularly vulnerable to
flying embers.
All vent openings should be covered with 1⁄8 of an
inch metal mesh. Do not use fiberglass or plastic mesh
because they can melt and burn.
Attic vents in eaves or cornices should be baffled or
otherwise prevent ember intrusion (mesh is not enough).
Roof: Your roof is the most vulnerable part of your home because it can easily catch fire from wind-blown embers.
Homes with wood-shake or shingle roofs are at a higher
risk of being destroyed during a wildfire than homes
with fire-resistant roofs.
Build your roof or re-roof with fire-resistant materials that include composition, metal or tile. Block any
spaces between roof decking and covering to prevent
ember intrusion.
Clear pine needles, leaves and other debris from your
roof and gutters.
Cut any tree branches within ten feet of your roof.
Inside: Keep working fire extinguishers on hand.
Install smoke alarms on each level of your home and
near bedrooms. Test them monthly and change the
batteries twice a year.
Address: Make sure your address
is clearly visible from the road.
Windows: Heat from a wildfire can cause windows
to break even before the home ignites. This allows
burning embers to enter and start internal fires. Singlepaned and large windows are particularly vulnerable.
Install dual-paned, with the exterior pane of tempered
glass windows, to reduce the chance of breakage in
a fire.
Limit the size and number of windows in your home
that face large areas of vegetation.
Walls: Wood products, such as boards, panels or
shingles, are common siding materials. However,
they are combustible and not safe choices for fireprone areas.
Build or remodel with fire-resistant building materials, such as brick, cement, masonry, or stucco.
Be sure to extend materials from foundation to roof.
Tour a Wildfire Ready Home
6 Driveways and Access Roads: Driveways should be
designed to allow fire and emergency vehicles and
equipment to reach your house.
Access roads should have a minimum 10-foot
clearance on either side of the traveled section of
the roadway and should allow for two-way traffic.
Ensure that all gates open inward and are wide
enough to accommodate emergency equipment.
Trim trees and shrubs overhanging the road to a
minimum of 13.5 feet to allow emergency vehicles
to pass.
Garage: Have a fire extinguisher and tools such
as a shovel, rake, bucket and hoe available for fire
emergencies.
Install a solid door with self-closing hinges between living areas and the garage. Install weather stripping around
and under the doors to prevent ember intrusion.
Store all combustibles and flammable liquids away from
ignition sources.
Non-Combustible Fencing: Make sure to use noncombustible fencing to protect your home during a wildfire.
Non-Combustible Boxed In Eaves: Box in
eaves with non-combustible materials to prevent
accumulation of embers.
Rain Gutters: Screen or enclose rain gutters to
prevent accumulation of plant debris.
Water Supply: Have multiple garden hoses that are
long enough to reach any area of your home and
other structures on your property.
If you have a pool or well, consider a pump.
Chimney: Cover your chimney outlet and stovepipe with
a non-flammable screen of 1⁄4-inch wire mesh or smaller to prevent embers from escaping and igniting a fire.
Make sure that your chimney is at least 10 feet away
from any tree branches.
Deck/Patio Cover: Use heavy timber or non-flammable
construction material for decks and patio covers.
Enclose the underside of balconies and decks with
fire-resistant materials to prevent embers from blowing underneath, lodging, and starting a fire.
Keep your deck clear of combustible items, such as
baskets, dried flower arrangements, and other debris.
The decking surface must be ignition resistant if it’s
within 10 feet of the home.
7 CREATE
YOUR OWN
WILDFIRE
ACTION PLAN
Your Wildfire Action Plan must be prepared with all
members of your household well in advance of a fire.
Use these checklists to help you prepare your Wildfire
Action Plan.
Each family’s plan will be different, depending on the
situation.
Once you finish your plan, rehearse it regularly with
your family and keep it in a safe and accessible place
for quick implementation.
Get SET - Prepare Your Family
Create a Family Disaster Plan that includes meeting
locations and communication plans and rehearse it regularly.
Include in your plan the evacuation of large animals such as horses.
Have fire extinguishers on hand and train your family how to use them.
Ensure that your family knows where your gas, electric, and water main shut-off controls are and how to use them.
Plan several different escape routes.
Designate an emergency meeting location outside the fire hazard area.
Assemble an emergency supply kit as recommended by the American Red Cross.
Appoint an out-of-area friend or relative as a point of contact so you can communicate with family members who have
relocated.
Maintain a list of emergency contact numbers posted near your phone and in your emergency supply kit.
Keep an extra emergency supply kit in your car in case you can’t get to your home because of fire.
Have a portable radio or scanner so you can stay updated on the fire.
Tell your neighbor about Ready! Set! Go! and your Wildfire Action Plan.
8 MAKE A KIT
• Keep a pair of old shoes and a flashlight handy
for a night evacuation.
• Keep the six “P’s” ready, in case an immediate
evacuation is required:
• People and pets
• Papers, phone numbers, and important
documents
• Prescriptions, vitamins, and eyeglasses
• Pictures and irreplaceable memorabilia
• Personal computers (hard drive and disks)
• “Plastic” (credit cards, ATM cards) and cash
ALERT FAMILY AND NEIGHBORS:
• Dress in appropriate clothing (i.e., clothing
made from natural fibers, such as cotton, and
work boots). Have goggles and a dry bandana
or particle mask handy.
• Ensure that you have your brush fire survival kit
on hand that includes necessary items, such as a
battery powered radio, spare batteries, emergency
contact numbers, and ample drinking water.
• Stay tuned to your TV or local radio stations for
updates, or check the fire department website.
• Remain close to your house, drink plenty of water
and keep an eye on your family and pets if you
did not evacuate.
OUTSIDE CHECKLIST
Gather up flammable items from the exterior
of the house and bring them inside (e.g., patio
furniture, children’s toys, door mats, etc.) or place
them in your pool.
Turn off propane tanks.
Connect garden hoses to outside taps.
Don’t leave sprinklers on or water running, they
can waste critical water pressure.
Leave exterior lights on.
Back your car into the garage. Shut doors and
roll up windows.
Have a ladder available.
Patrol your property and extinguish all small fires.
Seal attic and ground vents with pre-cut plywood
or commercial seals.
INSIDE CHECKLIST
Shut all windows and doors, leaving them
unlocked.
Remove flammable window shades and curtains
and close metal shutters.
Remove lightweight curtains.
Move flammable furniture to the center of the
room, away from windows and doors.
Shut off gas at the meter. Turn off pilot lights.
Leave your lights on so firefighters can see your
house under smoky conditions.
Shut off the air conditioning.
Before the Fire Approaches
9 GO EARLY By leaving early, you give your family the best chance of surviving a wildfire. You also help firefighters by keeping roads clear of congestion, enabling them to move more freely and do their job.
IF YOU ARE TRAPPED: SURVIVAL TIPS
• Shelter away from outside walls.
• Patrol inside your home for spot fires and extinguish them. • Wear long sleeves and long pants made of natural fibers such as cotton. • Stay hydrated.
• Ensure you can exit the home if it catches fire (remember if it’s hot inside the house it is four to five times hotter outside). • After the fire has passed, check your roof and extinguish any fires, sparks or embers. • Check inside the attic for hidden embers.
• Patrol your property and extinguish small fires.
If there are fires that you cannot extinguish with a small amount of water or in a short period of time, call 9-1-1. 10 WHEN TO LEAVE
Leave early enough to avoid being caught in fire,
smoke or road congestion. Don’t wait to be told by
authorities to leave. In an intense wildfire, they may
not have time to knock on every door. If you are
advised to leave, don’t hesitate!
WHERE TO GO
Leave to a predetermined location (it should be a lowrisk area, such as a well-prepared neighbor or relative’s house, a Red Cross shelter or evacuation center, hotel, etc.)
HOW TO GET THERE
Have several travel routes in case one route is
blocked by the fire or by emergency vehicles and
equipment. Choose an escape route away from the
fire.
WHAT TO TAKE
Take your emergency supply kit containing your
family’s and pet’s necessary items, such as cash,
water, clothing, food, first aid kits, and medications.
Also, don’t forget valuables such as your computer,
photos and important documents.
Organize your family members and make
arrangements for your pets.
BE FAMILIAR
Know the city’s designated evacuation routes.
These routes have been designated by the city to help
improve evacuations during a wildfire and help
emergency services get to the emergency. For more
information on the designated evacuation routes visit
http://www.beverlyhills.org/redflagwarning
NIXLE ALERTS
Sign up for Nixle Alerts for Beverly Hills: Text
BEVHILLS to 888777 to receive text message alerts.
My Personal Wildfire Action Plan
Write up your Wildfire Action Plan and post it in a location where every member of your family can see it. Rehearse it regularly with your family.
During High Fire Danger days in your area, monitor your local media for information on brush fires and be ready to implement your plan. Hot, dry, and windy conditions create the perfect environment for a wildfire.
BEVERLY HILLS FIRE DEPARTMENT
If you have an emergency, call 911
Fire Prevention Bureau: (310) 281-2703
Website: www.beverlyhills.org
Important Phone Numbers
Emergency:
School:
Family:
Friends:
When to go:
Where to go:
How to get there:
What to take:
Who to tell (before and after):
11 Additional Safety Measures and Recommendations:
What is a Red flag day and why is it important to you?
Trees located within the proximity of the residence should be maintained in a healthy manner. Thinning out trees, trimming back tree foliage and removing ALL dead material and debris produced by the tree will help reduce the risk.
Be courteous to your neighbors. Private property vegetation should not cross over to any adjoining neighbor’s property and create a hazardous condition as far as vegetation overhanging or touching the residence.
If your vegetation is deemed a fire hazard and crosses into an adjoining property, the Beverly Hills Fire Department notice does not give you permission to trespass onto other properties. Please make every effort to contact and coordinate any possible clean up or removal.
If you and your neighbor cannot come into agreement on property lines, the city recommends to hire a surveyor to help indicate the property line. The city has tools for reference that can be used, but officially a survey is the best route to confirm.
Certain vegetation requires more maintenance than others, especially depending on placement of vegetation on your property. Vegetation near structures require more debris maintenance. This is to ensure all roofs are clear and proximity to the residence is being maintained.
There is no fire proof vegetation. Everything can burn and it’s the property owner’s responsibility to maintain their property ALL YEAR ROUND, not just during inspection season.
Red Flag Days are declared by the Beverly Hills Fire
Department within the City of Beverly Hills when: 1)
Relative humidity 15 percent or less with either sustained winds of 25 mph or greater or frequent gusts of 35 mph, and a burn index of 151 or higher. 2) The Fire Chief
may also declare a Red Flag Day in response to an
extreme hazard such as widespread lightning strikes or
widespread active fire incidents throughout the region.
Streets that have the designated signs posted are part
of an emergency evacuation route or lack adequate
width to accommodate fire apparatus and resident traffic during a wildfire. The parking restrictions help reduce congestion during an evacuation and help emergency
equipment arrive to the incident.
STREETS WITH SIGNS ARE AS FOLLOWS:
1. La Altura Rd North of Doheny Rd
2. Calle Vista Dr North of Doheny Rd
3. Schuyler Rd North of Doheny Rd
4. El Retiro Way West of Schuyler Rd
5. Calle Vista Dr West of Schuyler Rd
6. Miradero Rd West of Schuyler Rd
7. Doheny Rd East of Foothill Rd, West of Loma Vista Dr
8. Foothill Rd North of Sunset Blvd, South of Doheny Rd
9. N Hillcrest Rd North of Sunset Blvd
10. Loma Vista Dr North of Sunset Blvd
11. Carla Ridge East of Schuyler Rd, West of Loma Vista Dr
12. Coldwater Canyon Dr North of N Beverly Dr
13. Benedict Canyon Dr North of Sunset Blvd
14. San Ysidro Dr East of Tower Rd
15. Tower Rd North of Benedict Canyon Dr, South of
San Ysidro Dr
16. N Beverly Dr North of Sunset Blvd, South of
Coldwater Canyon Dr
For more information, visit
http://www.beverlyhills.org/redflagwarning
12 BEFORE AND AFTER
13 COMMON HAZARDS
14 15
Please contact 310-281-2703 to schedule an appointment. If you would like to have a fire department community risk reduction inspector conduct a pre-inspection walk-through of your property on any of the listed programs below:
• Home Hardening
• Fuel Modification
• Vegetation Management (Brush Clearance)
• Ready set go
Property owner needs to be present during the walk-through. The fire departments objective during the course of these pre-inspections is to educate, improve awareness and provide recommendations to lower any risk on the property. These pre-inspections are not in lieu of the required annual inspections. For additional questions, inspection requests, or inquiries please email [email protected]
Wildfires are very unpredictable. Just because a wildfire hasn’t happened here, doesn’t mean a wildfire still can’t occur.
Every effort we make to help improve fire safety in our community, the better chances your home will survive a wildfire.
We all can make a difference. Be ready, be prepared!
FIRE DEPARTMENT PROGRAM SERVICES:
ARE YOU AND YOUR HOME PREPARED?
READY! SET! GO!
Farsi Translated Brochure
QR CODE
Spanish Translated Brochure
QR CODE
فارسی شده ترجمه بروشورهای Folletos traducidos al español The printing of this brochure was funded by a grant from the California Fire Foundation.
Ready Set Go Farci
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Ready Set Go Spanish
https://s3.amazonaws.com/tsresources.targetsolutions.com/151E72FD-B088-0F92- 7A8C-B917FB295C66.pdf
Attachment 3
Benedict
Canyon x
Sunset
N. Rexford
Dr. x Sunset
Sunset x N.
Hillcrest Rd.
N. Hillcrest
Rd. x Drury Ln
Loma
Vista Dr.
Carla Rdg.
Laurel Way
x Coldwater
Canyon Dr.
Coldwater
Canyon Dr. x
Laurel Way
Benedict Canyon
Dr. x Chevy
Chase Dr. Laurel Way x
Carolyn Way
Monte Cielo Dr.
x Coldewater
Canyon Dr.
Loma
Vista Dr.
Foothill Rd.
x Sunset
1 2
3 4
A B C D
Proposed Zones & Locations
Beacon Box Location
Zone_Name
Sunset East
Sunset West
Trousdale
Upper Benedict
Upper Coldwater
Upper Laurel Way
Beverly Hills
Sunset West Benedict Canyon x Sunset
* Sunset West N. Rexford Dr. x Sunset
Sunset East Sunset x N. Hillcrest Rd.
Trousdale Estates
Trousdale Estates
Trousdale Estates
Upper Laurel Way
Upper Coldwater
Upper Benedict
Upper Laurel Way
* Upper Coldwater
* Trousdale Estates
N. Hillcrest Rd. x Drury Ln
Loma Vista Dr.
Carla Rdg.
Laurel Way x Coldwater Canyon Dr.
Coldwater Canyon Dr. x Laurel Way
Benedict Canyon Dr. x Chevy Chase Dr.
Laurel Way x Carolyn Way
Monte Cielo Dr. x Coldewater Canyon Dr.
Loma Vista Dr. Upper
Sunset East Foothill Rd. x Sunset
Zone Name Location
Drury Ln. & N. Hillcrest Rd.
N. Hillcrest Rd. & Sunset Blvd. N. Rexford Dr. & Sunset Blvd.
Benedict Cyn. Dr. & Summer Dr.
Benedict Cyn. Dr. & Sunset Blvd.
N. Beverly Dr. & Shadow Hill Way. Fire Station #2 Coldwater Cyn. Dr.
Laurel Way & Carolyn
Carla Ridge & Schuyler Rd.
Foothill Dr. & Sunset Blvd. Loma Vista Dr. & Drury Ln.
Cherokee Ln. & Loma Vista Dr. Coldwater Cyn. Dr. & Monte Cielo Ct.
Attachment 4