CITY MANAGER’S OFFICE
CITY HALL
10300 TORRE AVENUE • CUPERTINO, CA 95014-3255
TELEPHONE: (408) 777-3212
CUPERTINO.GOV
CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
Date: April 21, 2026
Subject
Accept Legislative Review Committee (LRC) recommendation supporting Assembly Bill 2517 (Calderon) Fire Safety: Fire Hazard Severity Zones
Recommended Action
Adopt support position on Assembly Bill 2517 (Calderon) Fire Safety: Fire Hazard Severity Zones and authorize the Mayor to send letters to the State legislature
Reasons for Recommendation and Available Options
On April 6, the Legislative Review Committee (LRC) adopted three positions on bills that were outlined in the 2026 Legislative Platform, which can be viewed on the City’s webpage at cupertino.gov/legislation.
The LRC also discussed AB 2517 by Assemblymember Calderon, however, they were unable to adopt a position as this bill falls under a “monitor” position within the platform. Adopting a position of support or oppose would require consideration by the full Council. The LRC voted to move this bill forward and recommends that the full Council adopt a support position on this bill.
AB 2517 aims to improve the State’s process for designating Fire Hazard Severity Zones by increasing transparency, requiring regular updates, and enhancing local government involvement. The bill would update how the State Fire Marshal designates moderate, high, and very high fire hazard zones and would require that these maps be updated on a science-based, five-year cycle, replacing the current vague standard of periodic updates.
The measure also would establish a transparent public review process prior to finalizing maps, including opportunities for public input, and improve coordination with local governments.
Importantly, it would provide cities with a formal opportunity to submit land use and zoning input before maps are finalized.
For cities, the bill offers clear benefits. It enhances transparency and public trust in fire hazard mapping, ensures that wildfire risk information is current and accurate, and strengthens local
planning and emergency preparedness. It also provides a meaningful role for local jurisdictions in shaping the final maps.
This bill is sponsored by the League of California Cities and is also supported by the cities of Carpinteria, Glendora, Laguna Niguel, Rancho Palos Verdes, Palos Verdes Estates, and San Clemente. A draft letter of support is included as Attachment A.
Next steps
If approved, the City will finalize the letter with the Mayor and submit it to the state legislature.
If not approved, the City will continue watching this bill and can provide updates as the legislative session progresses.
Sustainability Impact
No sustainability impact.
Fiscal Impact
No sustainability impact.
City Work Program (CWP) Item/Description
None
Council Goal
Public Engagement and Transparency
California Environmental Quality Act
No California Environmental Quality Act impact.
_____________________________________
Prepared by: Astrid Robles, Senior Management Analyst Reviewed by: Kirsten Squarcia, Deputy City Manager
Floy Andrews, Interim City Attorney
Approved for Submission by: Tina Kapoor, City Manager
Attachments:
A – Draft Letter of Support