Cupertino City Council
May 19, 2026

This section outlines the existing and likely future hazardous conditions and other public safety issues in Cupertino and policy responses to these issues. The public safety issues in Cupertino that are covered in the following sections include:
 Section 2.1: Emergency Preparation and Response
 Section 2.2: Flood and Inundation Hazards
 Section 2.3: Seismic and Geologic Hazards
 Section 2.4: Fire Hazards
 Section 2.5: Hazardous Waste and Materials
 Section 2.6: Climate Change Resilience (air quality, drought, extreme heat, severe weather, and human health hazards)
This section provides details pertaining to probable locations each hazard or issue is likely to occur (per availability of data), past notable events in and around Cupertino, agencies responsible for providing protection from these public safety issues, and other background information required by California Government Code Section 65302(g)(4). The results of the Vulnerability Assessment are integrated into the discussion of hazards and public safety issues.

Of particular concern to Cupertino, as in many other communities, is the possibility of cascading and compounding hazard events. These are instances where one hazard event triggers one or more others, which may occur over a very short timeframe (minutes or hours) or weeks or months apart. These linked events are often the most damaging because of the wider range of impacts. When cascading and compounding events occur closely together, emergency response operations must be flexible enough to respond to rapidly changing conditions and have access to sufficient resources to meet community needs.

Examples of cascading and compounding events include a heavy rainstorm that causes flooding and mudslides, or extreme and high winds that lead to wildfires.

2.1 EMERGENCY PREPARATION AND RESPONSE

2.1.1 Local Emergency Response
The City of Cupertino’s Office of Emergency Management , Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office, and Santa Clara County Fire Department conduct emergency preparedness activities in Cupertino. Additionally, the American Red Cross and Santa Clara Collaborating Agencies’ Disaster Relief Effort (CADRE) collaborate on emergency preparedness training and exercising.

City of Cupertino’s Office of Emergency Management
The City of Cupertino’s Office of Emergency Management works to mitigate risks, to prepare, respond, and recover from emergencies impacting the city. The Office of Emergency Management works with the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office and Santa Clara County Fire Department conduct emergency response activities in Cupertino and to support emergency preparedness training, including day-today management of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Academy in coordination with the Fire Department.

Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office
Local police services are provided by contract with the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office. Law enforcement services include police patrols, criminal investigations, traffic enforcement, accident investigation, and tactical teams. The City’s commitment to public safety encompasses two broad areas

2. PUBLIC SAFETY ISSUES
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Appendix H: Health and Safety Element Background Report | March 2025 Page 11 of responsibilities: (1) providing public safety services and the planning necessary for the prevention of crime; and (2) planning for a safe environment in which the public is not exposed to unnecessary risks to life and property.

Santa Clara County Fire Department
The Santa Clara County Fire Department provides fire prevention and proection services to Cupertino. The Santa Clara County Fire Department is a full-service department that provides similar services to seven other West Valley cities and adjacent county areas. The Fire Department has 339 budgeted staff positions, including sworn and civilian personnel. Daily emergency response staffing consists of 66 firefighters and officers on 24-hour shifts operating out of 15 fire stations, with 31 front-line fire apparatus and 3 battalion chief command vehicles. Mutual-aid agreements with the neighboring jurisdictions augment Santa Clara County Fire Department’s fire response capabilities. The Santa Clara County Fire Department provides first response Advanced Life Support paramedic level services to Cupertino. The Department maintains a Santa Clara County Emergency Medical Service (EMS) Multi-Casualty Incident supply trailer for large-scale emergency medical incidents and is a participant in Master Mutual Aid in the event of major disasters.

Santa Clara County EMS has a contract with a third party ambulance transport provider for the ground transport of all patients. In the event of a wildfire or an emergency, the Santa Clara County Fire Department can issue evacuation warnings or evacuation orders for impacted areas.

The Santa Clara County Fire Department also conducts fire prevention inspections and educational programs, including the CERT Academy, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and first aid certification.

The CERT Academy educates people about disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact their area and trains them in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations. In the event of a disaster or public safety emergency, CERT volunteers will be able to assist their family and neighbors when first responders are not immediately available to help. The
Santa Clara County Emergency Medical Services Agency
The County’s EMS regulates the Exclusive Operating Area and currently contracts Global Medical Response which is a private provider that provides emergency medical transport.

Standardized Emergency Management System
The County of Santa Clara is required to use a Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS) to be eligible for funding of their response-related personnel costs under State disaster assistance programs.
6 State law establishes SEMS to standardize the response to emergencies involving multiple jurisdictions. SEMS is intended to be flexible and adaptable to the needs of all emergency responders in California. It requires emergency response agencies to use basic principles and components of emergency management, including the Incident Command System, multiagency or interagency coordination, the operational area concept, and established mutual-aid systems.

Emergency Plans
The State of California requires all State, regional, and local agencies, including PG&E and SCVWD, to maintain their own emergency plans relating to the infrastructure that they install and maintain. In the event of an emergency, the City would rely on these agencies to implement their emergency plans, with the City supporting as needed. When an incident occurs anywhere in Cupertino, the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office and/or the Santa Clara County Fire Department is typically the first to arrive at the scene, where they secure the area and then determine which other agencies need to be involved. 133
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2.1.2 Alert, Warning, and Notification
The City of Cupertino’s Alert, Warning, and Notification (AWN) Program provides critical alert and warning to the public while supporting information sharing among City departments and partner agencies before, during, and after an emergency. Effective dissemination of information, including alerts and warnings, are critical emergency management tools to help prevent hazards from becoming disasters. The AWN Program serves as a supplemental tool designed to help the City’s departments effectively coordinate information sharing and provide alerts and warnings to the public for the entire cycle of an incident.

The AWN Program provides the framework for alert, warning, and notifications before, during, and after any emergency or situation. In a community-wide emergency, alerts, warnings, and notifications play a critical role in keeping people out of harm’s way and providing info on the status and resolution of the situation. To reach as many people as possible with crucial information, the City’s emergency alert, warning, and notification plan includes several information methods: the Emergency Alert and Warning System (AlertSCC), Cupertino.org, the City Channel (TV), Radio Cupertino, and social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter. The City also uses volunteers to disseminate public information about extreme weather events through an outreach program called Raising Awareness of Community Hazards, or REACH.

The REACH program is used to share public information ahead of a threat when there is time to act.

Cupertino uses AlertSCC to notify anyone who lives or works within Cupertino that is impacted by, or is in danger of being impacted by, an emergency. AlertSCC is the County’s official emergency alert and notification system. AlertSCC can provide information and instructions in a variety of emergency situations, which may include flooding, wildfire, earthquake, subsequent evacuations, public safety incidents, including crimes, that immediately affect someone’s neighborhood, and post-disaster information about shelters, transportation, or supplies. Depending on the urgency, severity, and certainty of the threat, some combination of the following alerting devices may be activated to registered users with as much notice as possible:
 Cupertino’s Emergency Radio Station (Radio Cupertino 1670 AM).  Cupertino’s Emergency Notification TV Channel (Channel 26 on Comcast Cable or Channel 99 on AT&T).
 Integrated Public Alert and Warning System, including Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) and Emergency Alert System (EAS)
 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radios  Twitter, NextDoor, Instagram, and Facebook
 Raising Emergency Awareness of Community Hazards (REACH) Program Alerts are distributed through AlertSCC via voice or text messages to cell phones, home phones, personal digital assistants, laptops, desktop computers, and TTY/TDD devices for the hearing impaired.

Cupertino has access to other State and national systems, including the Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA), Emergency Alert Systems (EAS), and the Emergency Digital Information System (EDIS). EAS is a national public warning system commonly used by State and local authorities to deliver important emergency information, such as weather and AMBER alerts, to affected communities. EAS participants include radio and television broadcasters, cable systems, satellite radio and television providers, and wireline video providers. FEMA, the Federal Communications System, and the NOAA’s National Weather Service work collaboratively to maintain the EAS and Wireless Emergency Alerts, which are the two main components of the national public warning system and enable authorities at all levels of government to send urgent emergency information to the public. EDIS is a wireless emergency and disaster information service operated by Cal OES and is an enhancement to the EAS. These systems are available in multiple languages. 134
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Appendix H: Health and Safety Element Background Report | March 2025 Page 13

2.1.3 Emergency Evacuation
With advanced warning, evacuation can effectively reduce injury and loss of life during a catastrophic event. Primary emergency access and evacuation routes include I-280, which intersects the city from northwest to east along the northern portion of the city; SR-85, which intersects the city from north to southeast through the central portion of the city, and other local roadways that connect to these primary evacuation routes. All evacuation routes in Cupertino face a potential disruption from flooding or earthquake, which may block roadways, damage the roadway surface, or collapse bridges and overpasses.

In the event of widespread disruption to local evacuation routes, remaining evacuation routes may become congested, slowing down evacuation of the community or specific neighborhoods. This issue may be compounded since evacuation routes for Cupertino will also likely serve as evacuation routes for surrounding communities, and so potential disruptions may have regional effects.

In preparation for wildfires and other disasters, the City leverages evacuation planning data through the Genasys platform, formerly known as Zonehaven. The City of Cupertino worked with public safety partner agencies to identify and plan for evacuation from 34 contiguous evacuation zones within the city. Maps of each zone are available through the City website. In the event of a wildfire or an emergency, the City and public safety partners (Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office and Santa Clara County Fire Department) can issue evacuation warnings or evacuation orders for impacted areas. Evacuation orders and warnings will be sent to residents using the AlertSCC platform.

The City’s website has an interactive hazard awareness map tool that shows residents and visitors the location and status of all evacuation zones in Cupertino. The map shows zones that are under warnings and orders for all types of hazards. The map is intended to inform members of the public before an emergency. Figure S-2 shows the potential evacuation routes throughout the city, although the recommended evacuation routes in any given situation will depend on the specifics of the emergency.

The City Annex to the Santa Clara County Multi-Jurisdcitional Hazard Mitigation Plan (MJHMP) and the Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) address evacuation routes’ capacity, safety, and viability.

Addressing evacuation considerations this way meets updated evacuation planning requirements reflected in Gov. Code § 65302.15.

Figure S-3 shows residential parcels with evacuation constraints. All of these parcels are at least a half mile from a major roadway and have access to only one emergency evacuation route. The lack of multiple emergency access points limits roadway access for these properties, which may create difficulties if there is a need to evacuate.
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Figure S-2 Potential Evacuation Routes
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Appendix H: Health and Safety Element Background Report | March 2025 Page 15 Figure S-3 Evacuation-Constrained Residential Parcels
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2.2 FLOOD AND INUNDATION HAZARDS
Flooding is the rising and overflowing of water onto normally dry land. Floods are one of the most frequent natural hazards impacting Santa Clara County and among the costliest natural disasters in terms of human hardship and economic loss nationwide, causing substantial damage to structures, landscapes, and utilities, as well as life-safety issues. Flooding can be extremely dangerous; even six inches of moving water can knock a person over. Floodwaters can transport large objects downstream, damaging or removing stationary structures, such as dam spillways. Ground saturation can result in instability, collapse, or other damage that breaks utility lines and interrupts services. Objects can also be buried or destroyed through sediment deposition from heavy flooding. Standing water can cause damage to roads, foundations, and electrical circuits, as well as spread vector-borne illnesses. Other problems connected with flooding and stormwater runoff include erosion, degradation of water quality, and losses of environmental resources.

Floods are usually caused by large amounts of stormwater, either from a period of very intense rainfall or a long period of steady rain. Historically, Cupertino has been at risk of flooding primarily during the winter and spring when stream systems swell with heavy rain. This type of flood results from prolonged, heavy rainfall and typically occurs due to high peak flows of moderate duration and a large volume of runoff.

Flooding is more severe when prior rainfall has saturated the ground. The watersheds in the Santa Cruz Mountains feed into four major streambeds that traverse the city, Permanente Creek, Stevens Creek, Regnart Creek, and Calabazas Creek. These creeks collect surface runoff and drain into channels leading to the San Francisco Bay. During heavy rainfall, these creeks create a potential flooding risk in the city as water levels may exceed the top of the creekbank.

Occasionally, flash flooding from short-duration, high-intensity precipitation events (often during atmospheric river events) may occur. Atmospheric rivers are a relatively common weather pattern that brings southwest winds and heavy rain to California. Atmospheric rivers are long, narrow regions in the atmosphere that transport water vapor carried away from the tropics. These columns of vapor move with the weather, carrying large amounts of water vapor and strong winds. When the atmospheric rivers make landfall, they often release this water vapor in the form of rain or snow, often causing heavy rains that can lead to flooding and mudslide events. Flash floods can occur even during a drought. Such events can tear out trees, undermine buildings and bridges, and scour creek channels. In urban areas, flash flooding is an increasingly serious problem due to removing vegetation and replacing groundcover with impermeable surfaces such as roads, driveways, and parking lots. The greatest risk from flash floods is occurrence with little to no warning.

Areas at an elevated risk of flooding are divided into 100- and 500-year flood zones. A 100-year flood zone has a 1-percent chance of experiencing a major flood in any given year, and a 500-year flood zone has a

0.2-percent chance of flooding in any given year. The 100-year floodplain in Cupertino is primarily along Permanente Creek, Stevens Creek, Regnart Creek, and Calabazas Creek. A majority of the city is within the 500-year floodplain. Figure S-4 shows the 100- and 500-year flood zones in and around Cupertino.

The City of Cupertino and SCVWD are actively involved in programs to minimize the risk of flooding. The City developed an approach to land use for the non-urbanized floodplain of Stevens Creek south of Stevens Creek Boulevard that ensures the preservation of the 100-year floodplain and the protection of the riparian corridor along this portion of Stevens Creek. Furthermore, the City and SCVWD developed a flood management program for the floodplain of Stevens Creek between I-280 and Stevens Creek Boulevard, while preserving the natural environment of Stevens Creek. 138
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Appendix H: Health and Safety Element Background Report | March 2025 Page 17 Figure S-4 Flood Hazard Zones
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Agencies responsible for flood control in Cupertino include the Unites States Army Corps of Engineers, SCVWD, Federal Insurance Administration, and the California Department of Water Resources (DWR).  United States Army Corps of Engineers identifies the need for and constructs major flood-control facilities. It also develops flood and dam inundation maps and reports.  SCVWD supplies water for Santa Clara County and owns the Stevens Creek Reservoir. While this reservoir was constructed in 1935 for water conservation, it does provide incidental flood protection by containing runoff early in the rainfall season, serves recreational needs, and benefits the environment by storing water to maintain flow in the creeks. SCVWD routinely inspects and monitors the condition of Stevens Creek Reservoir and provides an annual surveillance report to DWR’s Division of Safety of Dams (DSOD).
 FEMA manages the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), providing insurance to the public in communities that participate in the program. FEMA is the primary federal government agency contact during natural disasters and publishes the Flood Insurance Rate Maps, which identify the extent of flood potential in flood-prone communities based on a 100-year flood (or base flood) event.
 The City of Cupertino is a member of FEMA’s NFIP. The City of Cupertino’s Public Works Department is responsible for administering the NFIP and providing flood protection and insurance information to Cupertino residents and businesses.  Federal Insurance Administration is the primary agency that delineates potential flood hazard areas and floodways through the Flood Insurance Rate Maps and the Flood Boundary and Floodway Map. Flood insurance is required by all homeowners who have federally subsidized loans.
 DWR is responsible for managing and protecting California’s water. DWR works with other agencies to benefit the state’s people, and to protect, restore, and enhance the natural and human environments. DWR also works to prevent and respond to floods, droughts, and catastrophic events that would threaten public safety, water resources and management systems, the environment, and property. DWR is responsible for inspecting the Stevens Creek Reservoir on an annual basis to ensure it is safely operating.

Floodplains can change over time; the floodplain and watercourse of a stream can also be affected by human activities, such as land development and replacing permeable surfaces with hardscapes, the construction of bridges or culverts, or the creation of levees or other impoundment structures that control the flow in the watercourse.

2.2.1 Dam and Pipeline Failure
A dam failure is an uncontrolled release of water from a reservoir through a dam because of structural failures or deficiencies in the dam, usually associated with intense rainfall or prolonged flooding. Water pipeline or aqueduct failures can create a similar sudden flood. Dam and pipeline failures can range from minor to catastrophic, potentially harming human life and property downstream from the failure. In addition, ecosystems and habitats can be destroyed by fast-moving floodwaters, debris, and sedimentation from inundation. Although dam and pipeline failures are very rare, these events are not unprecedented. There are four major causes of failures:
 Overtopping: These failures occur when a reservoir fills too high with water, especially in times of heavy rainfall, leaving water to rush over the top of the dam. Other causes of this type of failure include settling of the crest of the dam or spillway blockage.  Foundation defects: These failures occur as a result of settling in the foundation of the dam, instability of slopes surrounding the dam, uplift pressures, and seepage around the foundation.

All these failures result in structural instability and potential dam failure. 140
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Appendix H: Health and Safety Element Background Report | March 2025 Page 19  Piping and seepage failures: These failures occur as a result of internal erosion caused by seepage and erosion along hydraulic structures, such as the spillways of a dam, or failures in the walls of a water pipeline. Animal burrows and cracks in the dam structure may also cause erosion.  Conduit and valve failure: These failures occur as a result of problems with valves and conduits in a dam or pipeline’s systems.

Many dam and pipeline failures are also the secondary result of other natural disasters, such as earthquakes, landslides, and extreme storms. Other causes include equipment malfunction, structural damage, and sabotage. Dams are constructed with safety features known as “spillways” that allow water to overtop the dam if the reservoir fills too quickly. Spillway overflow events, often referred to as “design failures”, result in increased discharges downstream and increased flooding potential. In a dam failure scenario, the greatest threat to life and property typically occurs in those areas immediately below the dam since flood depths and discharges generally decrease as the flood wave moves downstream. The primary danger associated with dam failure is the high-velocity flooding downstream of the dam and limited warning times for evacuation.

SCVWD has a comprehensive Dam Safety Program, which includes proactive inspection of upgrades and improving its dams and water supply structures as needed and in consultation with regulatory agencies.

Engineers monitor dams using instruments, monthly visual inspections, and periodic dam safety reviews to prevent loss of life, personal injury, and property damage from the failure of dams. The safety of each dam is re-evaluated with advances in geotechnical, structural, and earthquake engineering and if there is evidence of seepage or ongoing ground movement.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, as required by federal law, reviews and approves comprehensive emergency action plans (EAPs) for each of these dams. The EAP minimizes the threat to public safety and the response time to an impending or actual sudden release of water from project dams.

The EAP is also designed to provide emergency notification when floodwater releases may present the potential for major flooding. The EAP is used primarily to notify partner agencies; however, it may also be used to notify the public in unique situations.

The Stevens Creek Reservoir, owned by SCVWD, is outside of city limits, immediately to the southwest, as shown in Figure S-5. In the event of a dam failure at the Stevens Creek Reservoir, land surrounding Stevens Creek would flood, including residential areas adjacent to Stevens Creek and a portion of I-280.

As mandated by the National Dam Inspection Act, the United States Army Corps of Engineers has the authority and responsibility for conducting inspections of all dams. The purpose of these inspections is to check the structural integrity of the dam and associated appurtenant structures, ensuring the protection of human life and property. The National Dam Inspection Act requires all states to establish dam safety programs and sets minimum standards for dam design, construction, maintenance, and inspection. The California Dam Safety Program is responsible for implementing the National Dam Inspection Act in California and ensuring that all non-federal dams in the state comply with federal safety standards. The program also works to promote dam safety awareness, provides technical assistance to dam owners and operators, and conducts regular inspections and evaluations of California’s dams.

DWR’s DSOD oversees the California Dam Safety Program which regulates approximately 1,250 dams in California. DSOD inspects dams on an annual basis to ensure they are safe and performing as intended. DSOD also conducts independent reviews of applications for dam construction, removal, alteration, or repair; has inspection oversight over dam construction projects; and periodically reviews the stability of dams and their critical related structures, considering improved design approaches and requirements. DSOD works closely with dam owners to identify and correct issues on an ongoing basis. 141
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Figure S-5 Dam Inundation Areas
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Appendix H: Health and Safety Element Background Report | March 2025 Page 21

2.2.2 Past Occurrences
Floods are a regular feature in California and cause the second-greatest number of disaster declarations in the state. Cupertino has had several flooding events, including the following:7

 A series of storms from December 17, 2005, to January 12, 2006, caused extensive flooding throughout Northern California. Widespread county flooding occurred after two to four inches of rain fell on the area in about 24 hours.
 In 2015, a strong winter storm impacted California following nearly a month and a half of no rain and the driest January on record. The storm brought heavy rain, gusty winds, and damage to trees and power lines along with some minor flooding of urban areas. Rainfall amounts were heaviest in the mountains with 5 to 10 inches or more occurring. Several small mudslides in Santa Clara County were reported with the largest occurring in the Santa Cruz Mountains, north of Boulder Creek on Highway 9. Multiple offramps from I-280 reported flooding.  In 2019, an atmospheric river with an associated cold front moved through the region from February 12 to February 15 bringing widespread flooding and debris flows. Multiple mainstem rivers flooded, prompting evacuations from local officials. Strong wind gusts caused downed trees, power outages, and structural damage.
 In Winter and Spring of 2023, a series of atmospheric rivers impacted the Bay Area, resulting in significant rainfall and widespread flooding across the San Francisco Bay Area.

2.2.3 Potential Changes to Flood Risk in Future Years
Likelihood of Future Occurrence
Historically, extended heavy rains have resulted in floodwaters that exceed normal high-water boundaries and cause damage in Cupertino. Flooding has occurred within the 100- and 500-year floodplains and localized in other areas throughout the city. As land uses and climate conditions shift, and improvements are made to flood-control channels, the size of these flood zones is likely to change. The potential for a dam failure event in Cupertino is likely to remain a risk in future years, although the odds of such events are expected to remain very low.

Climate Change and Flooding
Floods are among the most damaging natural hazards in Santa Clara County, and climate change is expected to make flood events worse. Although climate change may not change average precipitation levels significantly, scientists expect that it will cause more years of extreme precipitation events. This means that more years are likely to see particularly intense storm systems that drop enough rainfall over a short period to cause flooding. Because of this, floods are expected to occur more often in Cupertino, and climate change may expand the parts of the city that are considered prone to flood. Climate change is also likely to increase the frequency and severity of droughts that cause soil to dry out and become hard. When precipitation does return, more water runs off the surface than is absorbed into the ground, which can increase flooding downstream.

While the risk and associated short- and long-term impacts of climate change are uncertain, experts in this field tend to agree that the most significant impacts include those resulting from increased heat and rainfall events that cause increased frequency and magnitude of flooding. Increases in damaging flood events will cause greater property damage, public health and safety concerns, displacement, and loss of life. Displacement of residents can include both temporary and long-term displacement, an increase in insurance rates, or restriction of insurance coverage in vulnerable areas. 143
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2.3 SEISMIC AND GEOLOGIC HAZARDS
Seismic and geologic hazards are risks caused by the movement of different parts of the earth’s crust or surface. Seismic hazards include earthquakes and hazardous events caused by them. Geologic hazards are other hazards involving land movements that are not linked to seismic activity and can inflict harm to people or property. Additional information about seismic and geologic hazards is Cupertino, including development review coordination is in General Plan Appendix E, Geologic and Seismic Hazards.

2.3.1 Seismic Hazards
Seismic activity occurs along boundaries in the earth’s crust, called faults. Pressure along the faults builds over time and is ultimately released, resulting in ground shaking commonly referred to as an earthquake.

Earthquakes can also trigger other hazards, including surface rupture (cracks in the ground surface), liquefaction (causing loose soil to lose its strength), landslides, and subsidence (sinking of the ground surface). Earthquakes and other seismic hazards often damage or destroy property and public infrastructure, including utility lines, and falling objects or structures pose a risk of injury or death.

Earthquakes
While Cupertino is at risk from many natural and human-caused hazards, the event with the greatest potential for loss of life or property and economic damage is an earthquake. This risk is true for most of the San Francisco Bay Area region since damaging earthquakes affect widespread areas and trigger many secondary effects that can overwhelm the ability of local jurisdictions to respond. Earthquakes in the Bay Area result from strain energy constantly accumulating across the region because of the motion of the Pacific Plate, relative to the North American Plate.

Earthquake risk is very high in Santa Clara County, including the City of Cupertino, due to the presence of three major active faults 2 in the region, the Hayward Fault, Calaveras Fault, and San Andreas Fault. Both the San Andreas and the Hayward Faults have the potential for experiencing major to great events.

The San Andreas fault, one of the longest and most active faults in the world is located west of Cupertino.

Two additional faults closely associated with the San Andreas Fault include the Sargent-Berrocal and Monta Vista-Shannon fault systems that intersect the western portion of the city.

The following three major faults are considered active faults within the region:
 Calaveras Fault: The Calaveras Fault is a major branch of the San Andreas Fault, to the east of the Hayward Fault. It extends 76 miles from the San Andreas Fault near Hollister to Danville at its northern end. The Calaveras Fault is one of the most geologically active and complex faults in the Bay Area.8 According to the 2023 Santa Clara County MJHMP, the probability of experiencing a magnitude 6.7 or greater earthquake along the Calaveras Fault in the next 30 years (beginning from 2023) is 7.4 percent. 9 The Calaveras Fault is approximately 14 miles to the east of the city.  San Andreas Fault: The San Andreas Fault extends 810 miles from the East Pacific rise in the Gulf of California through the Mendocino fracture zone off the shore of northern California. The fault is estimated to be 28 million years old. The probability of experiencing a Magnitude 6.7 or greater earthquake along the San Andreas Fault within the next 30 years (beginning from 2023) is 6.4 percent.9 The San Andreas Fault is approximately 5.5 miles to the west of the city.  Hayward Fault: The Hayward Fault runs parallel to and east of the San Andreas Fault. It extends from San José about 74 miles northward along the base of the East Bay Hills to San Pablo Bay. The 2 Active faults are defined by their current movement and deformation and their potential to cause earthquakes or other types of ground deformation in the future. 144
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Appendix H: Health and Safety Element Background Report | March 2025 Page 23 Hayward Fault is increasingly becoming a hazard priority throughout the Bay Area because of its increased chance for activity and its intersection with highly populated areas and critical infrastructure. According to the Uniform California Earthquake Rupture Forecast, Volume 3, released in March 2015, the probability of experiencing a Magnitude 6.7 or greater earthquake along the Hayward Fault in the next 30 years (starting from 2014) is 14.3 percent. 10 An earthquake of this magnitude has regional implications for the entire Bay Area, as the Hayward Fault crosses transportation and resource infrastructure, including multiple highways, regional gas and water pipelines, electrical transmission lines, and the Hetch-Hetchy Aqueduct. Disruption of the HetchHetchy system has the potential to severely impair water service to Santa Clara County. The Hayward Fault is approximately 10 miles to the east of the city.

Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zones are California Geological Survey-designated zones in California that are subject to special regulations for development and construction in the presence of certain active faults. These faults have surface traces, or a line on the earth’s surface, defining a fault. During an earthquake, the ground's surface can move along these traces, damaging buildings or other structures built on top of them. However, no Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zones are in the city. The nearest Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zone is along the San Andreas Fault, west of the city. Figure S-6 shows the location of regional faults and Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zones.

Other Seismic Hazards
In addition to the direct physical damage that can result from the motion of an earthquake, damage can result from liquefaction. Liquefaction occurs primarily in saturated, loose, fine- to medium-grained soils in areas where the groundwater table is within approximately 50 feet of the surface. Shaking causes the soils to lose strength and behave as a liquid. Excess water pressure is vented upward through fissures and soil cracks and can result in a water-soil slurry flowing onto the ground surface. This subsurface process can lead to near-surface or surface ground failure that can result in property damage and structural failure. Groundwater that is less than 10 feet to the surface can cause the highest liquefaction susceptibility, with lower groundwater levels causing lower liquefaction risks.

Soils susceptible to liquefaction are typically found in low-lying, current, or former floodplains. Portions of the city near the floodplains of Permanente Creek, Stevens Creek, Regnart Creek, and Calabazas Creek are likely to face liquefaction during an earthquake. Figure S-7 shows the areas facing an elevated liquefaction risk in Cupertino.

Site-specific geotechnical studies are the only practical and reliable way of determining the specific liquefaction potential of a site. However, a determination of general risk potential can be provided based on soil type and depth of groundwater. In most cases, proper design and construction of subgrade soils and building foundations provides a mechanism to mitigate the risk of seismic hazards to an acceptable level in conformance with the California Code of Regulations and the City’s Municipal Code. Identifying areas having a liquefaction potential is only intended as notification to seek further site-specific information and analysis of this potential hazard as part of future site development. It should not be solely relied on, without site-specific information and analysis, for design or decision-making purposes.

Earthquake-induced landslides pose a significant risk due to the presence of landslide-prone areas in western Cupertino and proximity of earthquake faults. Ground shaking from seismic activity can cause rocks, debris, and hillside soils to loosen and fall downslope, harming facilities and infrastructure in its path. Sinkholes, which are depressions or holes in the ground that form when the surface collapses into an underground space, are also a hazard in Cupertino. They can be formed by natural processes, such as earthquakes or subsidence, which is when the ground surface sinks as a result of underlying soil or rock 145
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being compressed, compacted, or eroded. Sinkholes can occur suddenly and can be very dangerous if they form underneath buildings, roads, or other structures.
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Appendix H: Health and Safety Element Background Report | March 2025 Page 25 Figure S-6 Regional Fault Lines
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2.3.2 Geologic Hazards
Geologic hazards, such as landslides and erosion, depend on the geologic composition of the area.

Landslides and rock falls may occur in sloped areas, especially areas with steep slopes, and usually in loose and fragmented soil areas. Slope stability depends on many factors and interrelationships, including rock type, pore water pressure, slope steepness, and natural or human-made undercutting. Landslides, rockfalls, and debris flows occur continuously on all slopes; some processes act very slowly, while others occur very suddenly, often with disastrous results.

Landslides are often triggered by other natural hazards, such as heavy rain, floods, or wildfires, so landslide frequency is often related to the frequency of these other hazards. In Santa Clara County, landslides typically occur during and after severe heavy rainfall, so the risk of landslides often rises during and after sequential severe storms that saturate steep, loose soils. Landslides and mudslides are a common occurrence and have caused damage to homes, public facilities, roads, parks, and sewer lines.

Due to the hilly terrain, the western portion of the city is within a very high landslide susceptibility class.

Landslides present the greatest geologic hazards in the city and generally occur in winter during high precipitation years. Landslides range from small, shallow deposits of soil and weak bedrock materials to large, deep landslides involving a large amount of bedrock. Landslides are also likely along the steep embankments that bound the Stevens Creek floodplain. Figure S-8 illustrates areas in Cupertino that are most susceptible to landslides.

Cupertino is also susceptible to hazards related to erosion, or the geological process in which earthen materials are worn away and transported by natural forces, such as water or wind, causing the soil to deteriorate. Eroded topsoil can be transported into streams and other waterways. Highly erosive soils can damage roads, bridges, buildings, and other structures. Sinkholes can also be formed by the erosion of soil or sediment by water flowing through the ground. This hazard can happen in areas with sandy or porous soils or in areas with a high-water table. Sinkholes can pose a hazard to infrastructure and human safety. They can cause damage to buildings, roads, and other structures and pose a risk to people and animals if they are not properly identified and managed.

2.3.3 Past Occurrences
Cupertino is in a region of high seismicity with numerous local faults nearby. While major earthquakes are rare in Cupertino, minor earthquakes occur more often. The San Andreas Fault, the fastest-slipping fault along the Pacific and North American Plate boundary, has caused earthquakes of magnitude 7.8 and 7.9 in the past, including the 1906 San Francisco earthquake. In 1989, the Loma Prieta earthquake, which also originated along the San Andreas Fault, produced a magnitude 6.9 earthquake. 11 The earthquake caused extensive damage and created a seven-county major disaster area, including Santa Clara County.

Landslides have occurred on hillsides throughout the city and generally occur in winter during high rainfall years.
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Appendix H: Health and Safety Element Background Report | March 2025 Page SE-27 Figure S-7 Liquefaction Areas
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Figure S-8 Landslide Susceptibility Areas
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2.3.4 Potential Changes to Geologic and Seismic Risk in Future Years Likelihood of Future Occurrence
Seismic Risk
Earthquakes are likely to continue to occur on an occasional basis. Most are expected to cause no substantive damage and may not even be felt by most people. Major earthquakes are rare but a possibility in the region. A major earthquake along any of the nearby faults could result in substantial casualties and damage, although the greatest risk in Cupertino is from the San Andreas Fault due to its proximity and high potential to cause a severe earthquake. A major earthquake on the Hayward Fault could damage or destroy transportation infrastructure, such as I-280, SR-85, or bridges, limiting access in and out of the community.

Based on historical data and the location of Cupertino relative to active and potentially active faults, the city will likely experience a significantly damaging earthquake. If serious shaking occurs, newer construction is generally more earthquake-resistant than older construction because of improved building codes.

Geologic Risk
Geologic risks, such as landslides, are common occurrences in Cupertino. With significant rainfall, additional failures are likely in the community’s landslide hazard areas, and minor to moderate landslides will likely continue to impact the area when heavy precipitation occurs, as they have in the past.

Climate Change and Geologic and Seismic Hazards
While climate change is unlikely to increase earthquake frequency or strength, the threats from seismic and geologic hazards are expected to continue. Climate change may result in precipitation extremes (i.e., wetter rainfall periods and drier dry periods). While total average annual rainfall may not change significantly, rainfall may be concentrated in more intense precipitation events. Heavy rainfall could cause an increase in the number of landslides or make landslides larger than normal. Increased wildfire frequency can destabilize hillsides due to loss of vegetation and change soil composition, contributing to greater runoff and erosion. The combination of a generally drier climate in the future, which will increase the chance of drought, wildfires, and the occasional extreme downpour, is likely to cause more mudslides and landslides. Impacts from these conditions would compound landslide potential for the most susceptible locations.

2.4 FIRE HAZARDS
Fire hazards include both wildfires and urban fires. The combination of complex terrain, climate, vegetation and development patterns contribute to an elevated risk of wildfire. The Community Wildfire Protection Plan 2023 (CWPP) describes how each of these variables contributes to fire risk, and describes how fire risk varies throughout the city. Historically, the fire season extended from early summer through late fall of each year during the hotter, dryer months, although it is increasingly a hazard that can occur year-round. Fire conditions arise from a combination of high temperatures, low moisture content in the air and plant matter, an accumulation of vegetation, and high winds.

Three types of fires are of concern to Cupertino: (1) wildfires, (2) wildland-urban interface fires, and (3) structural fires.
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2.4.1 Wildfires
Wildfires occur on mountains, hillsides, and grasslands. Fuel, weather, and topography are primary factors that affect how wildland fires spread. In and around Cupertino, grassland and woodland habitat provide highly flammable fuel that is conducive to wildfires. These plant species are capable of regeneration after a fire, making periodic wildfires a natural part of the ecology of these areas. The climate of Cupertino and the surrounding area keeps the grass dry and more readily combustible during fire season.

Wildfire potential for Santa Clara County is typically greatest in the months of August, September, and October, when dry vegetation coexists with hot, dry winds.. During these times, controlling a fire becomes far more difficult. Areas adjacent to the city that are susceptible to wildfires are also of concern as these conditions could exacerbate vulnerabilities within the city. Grassland fires are easily ignited, particularly in dry seasons. These fires are relatively easily controlled if they can be reached by fire equipment, although after a fire, the burned slopes are highly subject to erosion and gullying. While brushlands are naturally adapted to frequent light fires, fire suppression in recent decades has resulted in heavy fuel accumulation on the ground. Wildland fires, particularly near the end of the dry season, tend to burn fast and very hot, threatening homes and leading to serious destruction of vegetative cover. In woodland and forested areas, a wildland fire can generate a destructive crown fire, which is a fire that burns materials at the top of trees, spreading from treetop to treetop. They can be very intense and difficult to contain.

Because areas of the city with natural vegetation are extremely flammable during late summer and fall, wildfire is a serious hazard in undeveloped hillside areas in the western portion of the city, as well as open space areas adjacent to the city. These areas include State Responsibility Area (SRA) lands west of the city, such as the Rancho San Antonio Open Space, Picchette Ranch Open Space, Stevens Creek County Park, Saratoga Creek County Park, Sanborn County Park, Fremont Older Open Space, as well as Local Responsibility Area (LRA) lands in the hillsides of Saratoga.

2.4.2 Fire Hazard Severity Zone
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) establishes Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZs), designating each as moderate, high, or very high severity. Incorporated areas such as Cupertino are considered local responsibility areas (LRAs), within which CAL FIRE only designates Very High FHSZs. In 2009, CAL FIRE designated approximately three acres of the city as in the Very High FHSZ.

Figure S-9 shows the FHSZs in and around Cupertino. Areas adjacent to the city that are susceptible to wildfires are also of concern, as these conditions could exacerbate vulnerabilities within the city.

A combination of factors, including weather, topography, and vegetation, creates a higher risk of wildfire hazards, particularly in the Very High FHSZ. CAL FIRE periodically reviews and revises the FHSZ boundaries based on updated modeling and scientific information. Individuals should consult the most recent mapping available from CAL FIRE’s Fire and Resource Assessment Program (FRAP) at https://frap.fire.ca.gov/. Future updates to the Health and Safety Element will incorporate new mapping data as it becomes available.

2.4.3 Structural Fires
Cupertino is also at risk from structural fires. These fires occur in built-up environments, destroying buildings and other human-made structures. Structural fires are often due to faulty wiring, mechanical equipment, or combustible construction materials. The absence of fire alarms and fire sprinkler systems often exacerbates the damage associated with a structural fire. Structural fires are largely caused by human accidents, although deliberate fires (arson) may cause some events. Older buildings lacking modern fire safety features may face greater risk of fire damage. To minimize fire damage and loss, the 152
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Appendix H: Health and Safety Element Background Report | March 2025 Page SE-31 City’s Fire Code, based on California Code of Regulation Title 24, sets standards for building and construction. It requires adequate water supply for firefighting, fire-retardant construction, and minimum street widths, among other things.
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Figure S-9 Fire Hazard Severity Zones
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2.4.4 Fire Protection
As described in Section 1.2.3, the Santa Clara County Fire Department provides fire protection in Cupertino. The Santa Clara County Fire Department operates three fire stations in Cupertino:
 Cupertino Fire Station at 20215 Stevens Creek Boulevard  Monta Vista Fire Station at 22620 Stevens Creek Boulevard  Seven Springs Fire Station at 21000 Seven Springs Parkway The Santa Clara County Fire Department operates an additional twelve fire stations that are slated to provide service throughout the District during a significant event. As development continues in Cupertino, the City and Santa Clara County Fire Department will continue to monitor the changing fire protection needs in the community.

Santa Clara County Fire Department
The Fire Prevention Division provides a comprehensive fire/life safety plan review for land development, new building construction, interior remodel projects, fire suppression, and fire alarm systems. In addition, periodic construction inspections are performed to ensure that completed projects conform to State and local fire safety regulations.

For existing commercial buildings, the Fire Prevention Division provides an annual inspection program that is delivered through both the Prevention Division and fire station personnel. Annual inspections are conducted to ensure reasonable compliance with the general and specific fire safety regulations for each occupancy type as specified in the adopted Fire and Building Codes.

The Santa Clara County Fire Department manages and implements a hazardous brush abatement program for hillside areas within its jurisdictional boundaries. In January of each year, homeowners are reminded that they must remove native brush and vegetation from around their homes to create defensible space.

The brush abatement program entails inspections of hillside properties by fire crews beginning in early April each year. The costs associated with the abatement work are then placed on the property tax bill for that parcel.

Santa Clara County lists the Montebello Road/Stevens Canyon area as the fourth-highest risk in the county. This area is adjacent to the city limits, near the southwestern border of Cupertino. Stevens Creek Quarry Road connecting to the southern point of Stevens Canyon has been improved to acceptable standards for a fire access road. A fire trail extends from Skyline Boulevard on Charcoal Road to Stevens Canyon. The City requires that all emergency roads be constructed with an all-weather surface. It also requires a private emergency access connection between public streets within Lindy Canyon and Regnart Canyon areas. Presently, no water systems are serving the Montebello Road and upper Stevens Canyon area, except for Stevens Creek itself. Because there is no water service to these areas, the County requires homes to provide individual water tanks and fire sprinkler systems.

Santa Clara Valley Water District
Santa Clara Valley Wate District’s (SCVWD) Project F4: Vegetation Management for Access and Fire Safety supports SCVWD’s ongoing vegetation management activities that reduce fire risk by maintaining creekside lands. These activities also ensure access to maintenance and emergency personnel and equipment. The project includes vegetation management activities, such as weed abatement, goat grazing, herbicide application, and pruning to provide access and reduce fire risk. Before conducting 155
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maintenance, SCVWD’s personnel perform biological preconstruction surveys to minimize environmental impacts.

Santa Clara County Firesafe Council
The Santa Clara County Firesafe Council (SCCFSC) is a nonprofit, grassroots organization providing education and project assistance for homeowners and landowners in communities vulnerable to wildfire.

In addition to partnering directly with CAL FIRE, Santa Clara County Fire, and regional fire districts, SCCFSC works with public agencies, other nonprofits, businesses, and private landowners to design and implement protective measures, such as developing shaded fuel breaks, to increase wildfire survivability.

Pacific Gas and Electric Company
PG&E’s 2023–2025 Wildfire Mitigation Plan outlines its program to reduce wildfires. Key strategies in this plan include:
 Undergrounding utility lines: PG&E has a program to underground 10,000 circuit miles of distribution lines in areas of high fire threats, eliminating the ignition risk for these power lines.  Increased safety settings: Configuring electrical equipment on power lines to automatically shut off power if an object comes into contact with a distribution line.  Vegetation management: Continuing vegetation management activities.  Enhanced inspections: Providing more frequent and detailed inspections of power lines.

PG&E is undergrounding power lines in areas with the greatest impact on reducing wildfire risk and outages for their customers.

2.4.5 Past Occurrences
There is limited information on historic fires in the Cupertino area. However, there is no recorded history of wildfires within the city.12 The closest known wildfire was the Stevens Fire which occurred on August 30, 2007. This wildfire burned 151 acres in the dry brush-covered hills near Stevens Creek Canyon southwest of Cupertino. The fire burned for three days and was contained on September 2, 2007. This fire was the result of a downed power line, and no injuries or deaths were reported.

The 2020 fire season was the largest wildfire season recorded in California’s modern history. It was also the most devastating in recent Santa Clara County history. In eastern Santa Clara County, the SCU Lighting Complex fires burned 396,624 acres spanning from Calaveras Reservoir to the north, to nearly San Luis Reservoir to the south. The SCU Lighting Complex destroyed 222 structures and cause widespread smoke impacts across the region. Near the western border of Santa Clara County and closer to Cupertino, the CZU Lightning Complex fire, started as a series of lightning fires on August 16, 2020, burned across western Santa Cruz and San Mateo counties until September 22, 2020. These fires resulted in a total 86,509 acres burned, with 1,450 structures lost, and one fatality. While this fire was outside of Santa Clara County, it caused severe smoke impacts for Cupertino and surrounding communities. 156
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2.4.6 Potential Changes to Fire Risk in Future Years
Likelihood of Future Occurrence
As noted previously, the risk of wildfires in Santa Clara County is highest in late summer and fall. Extreme weather conditions during periods of low humidity, low fuel moisture, and high winds contribute to the severity of any potential wildfires. Fires occurring during these times typically burn hot and fast and are difficult to control unless initial suppression occurs immediately. Wildfire for Cupertino is a concern given its Very High FHSZ designations, and proximity to surrounding LRA and SRA lands with wildfire risk.

Moreover, the community consists of, and is surrounded by, undeveloped hillsides to the west, which makes these areas a high risk for wildfire. Wildfires will continue to be a high-risk hazard for personal safety and property damage in Cupertino, and smoke impacts from local and regional wildfires will likely continue to be problematic. The likelihood of structural fires occurring in the city is low since these fires are usually the result of human accidents or mechanical issues in buildings. New developments are required to incorporate fire protection measures under the Fire Code, including enhanced requirements for structures in the Very High FHSZ.

Climate Change and Wildfire
Changing climate conditions are expected to increase the fire risk in and around Cupertino. Warmer temperatures brought on by climate change can exacerbate drought conditions. Droughts can kill or dry out plants, creating more fuel for wildfires. Warmer temperatures are also expected to increase the number of pest outbreaks, such as the bark beetle, creating more dead trees and increasing the fuel load.

Hot, dry spells may also increase disease and insect infestations, resulting in higher fuel loads. Increased winds will result in more erratic fire behavior, making fires harder to contain. Warmer temperatures are also expected to occur later in the year, extending the wildfire season, which is likely to begin earlier in the year and extend later than it has historically.

2.5 HAZARDOUS WASTE AND MATERIALS
Hazardous materials are materials that pose a significant risk to public safety, or human and environmental health. These include toxic chemicals, flammable or corrosive materials, petroleum products, and unstable or dangerously reactive materials. They can be released through human error, malfunctioning or broken equipment, or as an indirect consequence of other emergencies (e.g., if a flood damages a hazardous material storage tank). Hazardous materials can also be released accidentally during transportation because of vehicle accidents.

The release or spill of bulk hazardous materials could result in fire, explosion, toxic cloud, or direct contamination of water, people, and property. The effects may involve a local site or many square miles.

Health problems may be immediate, such as corrosive effects on the skin and lungs, or gradual, such as the development of cancer from a carcinogen. Property damage could range from immediate destruction by explosion to permanent contamination by a persistent hazardous material. Most hazardous materials in the region are transported on truck routes along major roadways, such as I-280 and SR-85 that pass through Cupertino. The most vulnerable areas along this route are considered the on-/off-ramps and interchanges. Since 1970, one reported roadway hazardous materials incident occurred in Cupertino. 13 The City adopted a Hazardous Materials Storage Ordinance that regulates the storage of hazardous materials in solid and liquid form. Since 1990, State law has required that hazardous waste be properly disposed of in approved hazardous waste treatment or disposal facilities. To accomplish this, new treatment methods and facilities have been developed and approved to pre-treat hazardous waste before its final disposal. Under the 1986 Tanner Bill (AB 2948) authority, Cupertino, along with 13 other cities, 157
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joined the County to develop a comprehensive and coordinated planning approach to hazardous waste disposal. In 1990, a countywide Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Program was created. To supplement the County’s HHW Program and make the collection of HHW more convenient for residents, the City currently provides a door-to-door hazardous waste retrieval service through its solid waste franchise agreement.

Hazardous materials and waste within Cupertino are managed by the Certified Unified Program Agency (CUPA), a local administrative agency within the County of Santa Clara Hazardous Materials Compliance Division. The CUPA consolidates, coordinates, and makes consistent the regulatory activities of several hazardous materials and hazardous waste programs, including Hazardous Materials Management, California Accidental Release Prevention, Hazardous Waste Management, Underground Storage Tanks, Aboveground Storage Tanks, and Emergency Response. The Santa Clara County Fire Department Fire Prevention Division provides hazardous materials inspection, services for building construction, annual building inspection, and hazardous materials regulation.

Several State agencies monitor hazardous materials/waste facilities. Potential and known contamination sites are monitored and documented by the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) and the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC). A review of the leaking underground storage tank (LUST) list3 produced by the RWQCB and the DTSC EnviroStor database 14 indicates two active voluntary cleanup sites, one closed voluntary cleanup site, one certified school cleanup site, and three closed non-operating sites. The two active cleanup sites include the following:
 Cupertino Village Cleaners at 10989 North Wolfe Road
 Delia's Cleaners at 7335 Bollinger Road
If a hazardous material spill poses an imminent public health threat, the City will support local regulating agencies in notifying the public. The transport of hazardous materials/wastes and explosives through the city is regulated by the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). I-280 and SR-85 are open to vehicles carrying hazardous materials/wastes. Transporters of hazardous wastes are required to be certified by the United States Department of Transportation, and manifests are required to track the hazardous waste during transport. The danger of hazardous materials/waste spills during transport does exist and will potentially increase as transportation of these materials increases on I-280 and SR-85. Santa Clara County Fire Department, County of Santa Clara Office of Emergency Management, and County of Santa Clara Hazardous Materials Compliance Division are responsible for hazardous materials accidents at all locations within the city.
3 A review of LUST sites occurred on December 6, 2023.
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2.5.1 Potential Changes to Hazardous Materials in Future Years Likelihood of Future Occurrence
Given that there has been one hazardous materials incident in transport through the city in the past 53 years and land use activities that would require hazardous materials are not likely to increase in the future, it is unlikely that a hazardous materials incident will occur in Cupertino on a frequent basis. Moreover, according to Caltrans, most incidents are related to releases of fluids from the transporting vehicles themselves and not the cargo, thus the likelihood of a significant hazardous materials release within the city is more limited and difficult to predict.

Climate Change and Hazardous Materials
Climate change is unlikely to substantially affect hazardous materials transportation incidents. However, increases in the frequency and intensity of climate hazards, such as floods, landslides, and severe storms, may create a greater risk of hazardous materials releases during these events. The two active cleanup sites mentioned are both within the 500-year floodplain and are at risk of hazardous materials releases.

2.6 CLIMATE CHANGE RESILIENCE

2.6.1 Air Quality
Air quality is determined by the composition of gases and particles in the atmosphere, and it is a critical aspect of environmental health. Air pollution comes from both mobile sources (e.g., cars, trucks, airplanes) and stationary sources (e.g., agricultural and industrial uses). The Bay Area Air Quality Management District has the responsibility to create strategies and monitor the targets set by State and federal standards for the Bay Area. Due to air quality planning efforts, regional air quality has improved significantly over the past several decades, even though the population, traffic, and industrialization have increased.

Cupertino is highly susceptible to poor air quality due to major highways and quarry activity adjacent to the city. Wind patterns and geographical features move air pollution from other areas, such as the San Joaquin Valley, and trap pollution in the Santa Clara Valley. From 2015 to 2019, Cupertino experienced 31 days where ozone or fine particulate matter (PM2.5) levels exceeded State standards. 15 Poor air quality poses significant health risks and can contribute to respiratory conditions such as asthma, increase the risks of heart attacks and stroke, and has been linked to various cancers. Children and youth, seniors, those with pre-existing conditions, pregnant women, and outdoor workers are especially vulnerable to health impacts from poor air quality and makeup over 41 percent of Cupertino’s population.

Poor air quality can also limit outdoor recreational opportunities. Poor air quality costs the Bay Area about $32 billion annually in premature deaths, medical events, decreased activity, and cancer. 16 As reflected in the Vulnerability Assessment, outdoor recreation and key community services, such as public transit access, are highly vulnerable. Outdoor recreation can be curtailed due to poor air quality conditions from lower-level ozone, particulate matter, or wildfire smoke. Residents and visitors may not travel to parks or surrounding recreational areas if poor air quality creates negative health outcomes. Transit riders may be deterred from using public transit during days with poor air quality or high smoke days during wildfires, which could reduce the fares collected from transit riders. 159
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Wildfire Smoke
Increasing statewide fire frequency can create recurring air quality degradation events, leading to respiratory health effects. Wildfire smoke consists of a mix of gases and fine particulate matter from burning vegetation and materials. The pollutant of most concern from wildfire smoke is PM2.5, which is damaging to human health due to its ability to deeply penetrate lung tissue and affect the heart and circulatory system. Although wildfire smoke presents a health risk to everyone, sensitive groups may experience more severe acute and chronic symptoms from exposure to wildfire smoke, such as children (particularly younger children), older adults, people with chronic respiratory or cardiovascular disease, and low-resourced persons.

Potential Changes to Air Quality in Future Years
Likelihood of Future Occurrence
Poor air quality tends to occur annually and is likely to continue. Due to Cupertino’s proximity to major highways, quarry activity, and Santa Clara Valley’s geographical features, air quality will continue to be a concern.

Climate Change and Air Quality
Climate change will worsen air pollution.17 Ozone and PM2.5 form when other pollutants react in the atmosphere, and warmer temperatures speed up these reactions. Warmer temperatures also lengthen the growing seasons of plants and trees, increasing allergen production. In many regions of the United States, climate-driven changes in weather conditions, including temperature and precipitation, are expected to increase ground-level ozone and particulate matter (such as windblown dust from droughts or smoke from wildfires). These changes worsen existing air pollution. More wildfires will release particulate matter and other pollutants into the air. Drier conditions increase dust. Possible changes in wind patterns may also trap air pollutants in the Santa Clara Valley, increasing exposure.

2.6.2 Drought
A drought is an extended period when precipitation levels are well below normal. Drought may affect domestic water supply, energy production, public health, and wildlife; or contribute to wildfire. Like most of California and the western United States, Cupertino chronically experiences drought cycles. Drought impacts the city’s water supply, which may in severe instances make less water available for people, businesses, and natural systems.

Local ecosystems that are not well adapted to drought conditions can be more easily harmed by it. During drought events, the flow of water in creeks and streams is reduced, creating more slow-moving or standing water. This can concentrate sediment and toxins in the low water levels, causing harm to plants and animals. As reflected in the Vulnerability Assessment, riparian habitat is highly vulnerable to the impacts of drought. Drought conditions can cause smaller streams to run dry, subsequently harming the plants and animal habitat within the ecosystem. Trees may not have adequate water during drought periods, which can lead to pests and diseases destroying important habitat. Droughts can also indirectly lead to more wildfires, stressing plants and making them more susceptible to pests and diseases.

The U.S. Drought Monitor recognizes a five-point scale for drought events: D0 (abnormally dry), D1 (moderate drought), D2 (severe drought), D3 (extreme drought), and D4 (exceptional drought). According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, the most intensive drought in recent years occurred during most of 2014, when all of Santa Clara County was classified as “extreme” drought. More recently, in 2022, from January 160
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Appendix H: Health and Safety Element Background Report | March 2025 Page SE-39 through the end of the year, the county was also classified as being in “severe” drought. As of November 2023, Santa Clara County, including Cupertino, was not classified as drought. During severe drought conditions, water shortages are common, and water restrictions may be imposed to meet essential community needs. SCVWD’s 2020 Water Shortage Contingency Plan contains actions to implement and enforce regulations and restrictions for managing a water shortage when it declares a water shortage emergency under the authority of the California Water Code.

Cupertino’s water supply comes from local and imported water. Local rainfall and runoff flow into reservoirs for storage and blend with imported water. The water is released into creeks and ponds to augment natural percolation and maintain groundwater levels. Some local surface water is processed at the Rinconada Water Treatment Plant. The treated water is sold to Cupertino’s two local water suppliers:
the California Water Company and the San Jose Water Company. Both local retailers purchase their water supply from SCVWD, which receives water from the Rinconada Water Treatment Plant and wells fed by groundwater.

SCVWD, the groundwater management agency in Santa Clara County, manages groundwater recharge through percolation ponds and in-stream recharge of creeks. The McClellan Pond recharge facility in Cupertino and the Stevens Creek Reservoir, outside the city on its southwest boundary, also contribute to Cupertino’s water supply. Private well owners, farmers, and water retailers use water pumped from the groundwater aquifer through wells.

The Rinconada Water Treatment Plant is the second largest of SCVWD's water treatment plants. The Rinconada Water Treatment Plant draws water from the South Bay Aqueduct and the San Luis Reservoir.

The San Luis Reservoir is a key component of the federal Central Valley Project, while the South Bay Aqueduct is a key component of the State Water Project system. The Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta pumps into the Delta-Mendota Canal and then into the San Luis Reservoir. SCVWD is one of many users that draw water from this reservoir.

Approximately 50 percent of Santa Clara County’s water supply comes from hundreds of miles away – first as snow or rain in the Sierra Nevada range of northern and eastern California, then as water in rivers that flow into the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta or directly to water conveyance systems. Imported water is brought into the county through the complex infrastructure of the State Water Project, the federal Central Valley Project, and San Francisco’s Hetch-Hetchy system. As reflected in the Vulnerability Assessment, water and wastewater services are highly vulnerable to the impacts of drought. Drought conditions may cause stress on Cupertino’s water suppliers and reduce the overall water supply available.

In some cases, water storage infrastructure, such as the San Luis Reservoir, may not provide adequate storage to provide water during drought periods.

Potential Changes to Drought in Future Years
Likelihood of Future Occurrence
Drought differs from many other natural hazards in that it is not a distinct event and usually has a slow onset. Drought can severely impact a region physically and economically, affecting different sectors in different ways and with varying intensities. Adequate water is the most critical issue for commercial and domestic use. As the population in the city continues to grow, so will the water demand. However, the water supply is currently considered adequate to meet projected water needs through the year 2045. As demonstrated in the 2020 Urban Water Management Plan, SCVWD shows sufficient capacity to 161
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accommodate the demand through 2045 through a diversified and resilient portfolio that includes recycled water and conservation programs.

Based on historical information, drought in California, including Santa Clara County, is cyclical, driven by weather patterns. Drought has occurred in the past and will occur in the future. Periods of actual drought with adverse impacts can vary in duration, and the period between droughts is often extended. Although an area may be under an extended dry period, determining when it becomes a drought is based on comparing observed precipitation with what is normal (climatologic), comparing soil moisture and crop conditions with what is normal (agricultural), or by looking at how much water is contained in snow, the level or flow rate of moving water, water in reservoirs, or groundwater levels (hydrologic). However, how individuals recognize drought depends on how it affects them.

Climate Change and Drought
Although droughts are a regular feature of California’s climate, scientists expect climate change will lead to more frequent and intense droughts statewide. Overall, precipitation levels are expected to stay similar to historic levels in Cupertino, potentially increasing by the end of the century. However, there are likely to be more years with extreme levels of rainfall, both high and low, because of climate change. This is expected to cause more frequent and intense droughts, compared to historical norms, which cause soil to dry out and become hard. When precipitation does return, more water runs off the surface than is absorbed into the ground, which can lead to flooding downstream. Higher air temperatures are expected to increase evaporation, causing more water loss from lakes and reservoirs, exacerbating drought conditions.

Reduced winter precipitation levels and warmer temperatures have greatly decreased the size of the Sierra Nevada snowpack (the volume of accumulated snow), making less fresh water available for communities throughout California, including the imported water supply for Cupertino. A continued decline in the Sierra Nevada snowpack volume is expected, which may lead to lower volumes of available imported water. Depending on the location and emissions levels, the state Cal-Adapt database indicates the snowpack (i.e., snow water equivalent) for the Tahoe-Sierra Integrated Regional Water Management Region in the spring is expected to decline from a historical average of 16.1 inches to an average of 7.8 inches (a 52 percent decrease) by the middle of the century (2035 to 2064), and an average of 2.9 inches (an 82 percent decrease) by the end of the century (2070 to 2099). 18 If heat-trapping emissions continue unabated, more precipitation will fall as rain instead of snow, and the snow that does fall will melt earlier in the year, reducing the Sierra Nevada spring snowpack by as much as 70 to 90 percent.18 The loss of snowpack would pose challenges to water managers and hamper hydropower generation.

2.6.3 Extreme Heat
While there is no universal definition of extreme heat, California guidance documents define extreme heat as temperatures hotter than 98 percent of the historical high temperatures for the area, as measured between April and October of 1961 to 1990. Days that reach this level are called extreme heat days. In Cupertino, the extreme heat threshold is 93.2°F. A heat wave is an event with five extreme heat days in a row.

Health impacts are the primary concern with these hazards, though economic and service impacts are also an issue. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recognizes extreme heat as a substantial public health concern. Historically, NOAA data indicates that about 175 Americans succumb 162
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Appendix H: Health and Safety Element Background Report | March 2025 Page SE-41 to the hazards of summer heat, although this number has increased in recent years. 19 From 2004 to 2018, studies by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services indicate that there is an average of 702 deaths annually that are directly or indirectly linked to extreme heat. 20 In 2019, Santa Clara County reported an extreme heat event from June 9th to the 11th. The combination of high pressure and offshore solid flow resulted in an early season heat wave across the Bay Area.

Multiple daily records were broken across the region due to the heat. Three fatalities were reported during the heat event; one person died as a direct result of heat-related illness, while two others drowned while attempting to cool down during the heat wave.

In 2021, Santa Clara County reported an extreme heat event from July 9th to the 11th. Daytime highs rose above 100°F. Overnight lows remained warm, particularly across higher elevations with temperatures between 70°F and 80°F in the early mornings. There were no reported fatalities as a result of this heat event.

Extreme heat events are dangerous because people exposed to extreme heat can suffer several heatrelated illnesses, including heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and (most severely) heat stroke. As reflected in the Vulnerability Assessment, seniors, persons with chronic illnesses and/or disabilities, persons experiencing homelessness, outdoor workers, low-resourced people of color, immigrant/linguistically isolated communities, and households in poverty are the most vulnerable to extreme heat. Nursing homes and adult care facilities are especially vulnerable to extreme temperatures if power outages occur, and air conditioning or heating is not available. In addition, households in poverty may be at increased risk of extreme heat if the installation or use of air conditioning and heating is not affordable. Outdoor workers in construction or landscaping are also much more exposed to the elements than most people, so they are more susceptible to extreme heat conditions and the potential illnesses associated with very high temperatures. Moreover, extreme heat may be highly damaging to outdoor recreational activities, such as running, bicycling, and hiking. Intense physical exertion is more dangerous during very high temperatures, as people must regularly stay hydrated and not overexert themselves to avoid heat-related illnesses.

Most homes in Cupertino are older and were constructed over 40 years ago. Given that approximately 66 percent of all housing in the city was built prior to 1980, 21 some of these homes are unlikely to have air
conditioning and may lack effective insulation to regulate indoor temperatures. During extreme heat days, temperatures in poorly insulated homes may reach unhealthy temperatures. Therefore, people living in these homes, especially vulnerable populations, are at higher risk for heat-related illnesses from extreme heat events.

Streets and sidewalks are also well-shaded throughout many parts of the city. Trees and vegetation in urban forests are most useful as an extreme heat reduction strategy when planted in strategic locations around buildings or to shade pavement in parking lots and streets. Trees and vegetation help to lower surface and air temperatures by providing shade and evapotranspiration. Evapotranspiration, alone or in combination with shading, can help reduce peak summer temperatures by 2°F to 9°F. 22, 23 Very high temperatures can harm plants and animals that are not well adapted to these events, including natural ecosystems. Extreme heat can increase water temperature in lakes, streams, creeks, and other water bodies, especially during drought conditions when water levels are lower. In some cases, water temperatures may exceed comfortable levels for several plants and animals, causing ecological harm. 163
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As reflected in the Vulnerability Assessment, energy delivery and communication services are highly vulnerable to extreme heat. Extreme heat can regularly cause power outages due to a combination of mechanical failure of electrical grid equipment, heat damage to the wires themselves, and high demand for electricity as a result of cooling equipment, all of which causes stress on the grid. Indirectly, extreme heat stresses power lines, causing them to run less efficiently. The heat also causes more demand for electricity (usually to run air conditioning units), and in combination with the stress on the power lines, may lead to brownouts and blackouts.

Potential Changes to Extreme Heat in Future Years
Likelihood of Future Occurrence
Extreme heat tends to occur on an annual basis and is likely to continue occurring. Due to Cupertino’s inland location south of San Francisco Bay and relatively low elevation, high temperatures will continue to be a more common than cold temperatures.

Climate Change and Extreme Heat
The warmer temperatures brought on by climate change are likely to cause an increase in extreme heat events locally. Depending on the location and emissions levels, the state Cal-Adapt database indicates the number of extreme heat days is expected to rise from a historical annual average of 5 to 14 days by the middle of the century (2035 to 2064), and an average of 24 days by the end of the century (2070 to 2099). 24
Overall, Cupertino is expected to see an increase in the average daily high temperatures. Depending on the future severity of climate change, the state Cal-Adapt database indicates the annual average maximum temperature is expected to increase from a historical annual average of 69.4°F to an average of up to 73.5°F by the middle of the century (2035 to 2064), and an average of up to 76.5°F by the end of the century (2070 to 2099).2 Although the temperature increases may appear modest, the projected high temperatures are substantially greater than historical norms. These increases make it more likely that an above-average high temperature will cross the extreme heat threshold. As temperatures increase, Cupertino residents, employees, and visitors will face increased risk of dehydration, heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heart attack, stroke, and respiratory distress caused by extreme heat.

2.6.4 Severe Weather
Severe weather is generally any destructive weather event, but usually occurs in Cupertino as localized storms that bring heavy rain, hail, thunderstorms, and strong winds. Severe weather is usually caused by intense storm systems, although types of strong winds can occur without a storm. The types of dangers posed by severe weather vary widely and may include injuries or deaths, damage to buildings and structures, fallen trees, roads and railways blocked by debris, and fires sparked by lightning. Severe weather often produces high winds and lightning that can damage structures and cause power outages.

Lightning from these storms can ignite wildfires and structure fires that can cause damage to buildings and endanger people. Objects such as vehicles, unprotected structures (e.g., bus stops, carports), fences, telephone poles, or trees can also be struck directly by lightning, which may result in an explosion or fire.

A relatively common weather pattern that brings southwest winds and heavy rain to California is often referred to as an atmospheric river. Atmospheric rivers can be associated with severe weather in the following ways:
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Appendix H: Health and Safety Element Background Report | March 2025 Page SE-43  Heavy precipitation: Atmospheric rivers can bring large amounts of moisture to a region, which can lead to heavy precipitation and flooding. This level of precipitation can be especially problematic in areas with steep terrain or poor drainage, where the water can accumulate quickly and cause damage.
 Landslides: Heavy precipitation associated with atmospheric rivers can also increase the risk of landslides and debris flows in areas with steep terrain. This risk is because the excess water can saturate the soil and destabilize slopes, leading to landslides or rockfalls.  High winds: In addition to heavy precipitation, atmospheric rivers can also be associated with strong winds. This risk increase because the strong temperature contrast between the warm, moist air in the atmospheric river and the cold air surrounding it can lead to the formation of strong low-pressure systems and high winds.

A thunderstorm is a rain event that includes thunder and lightning. According to NOAA’s National Severe Storms Laboratory, a thunderstorm is classified as “severe” when it contains one or more of the following:
hail with a diameter of one inch or greater, wind gusts exceeding 57.5 miles per hour (mph), or tornado.

However, tornadoes are uncommon in Santa Clara County; only six have been recorded in the county since 1950.

High winds, often accompanying severe storms, can cause significant property damage, threaten public safety, and have adverse economic impacts from business closures and power loss. High winds, as defined by the National Weather Service, are sustained wind speeds of 40 mph or greater lasting one hour or longer or wind gusts of 58 mph or greater for any duration. These winds may occur as part of a seasonal climate pattern or in relation to other severe weather events, such as thunderstorms.

All wind events pose several different types of threats. By themselves, the winds threaten the health of people and structures in Cupertino. Dust and plant pollen blown by the wind can create breathing problems. The winds can blow roofs off buildings and cause tree limbs to fall on structures. High winds also increase the threat of wildfires. Winds may dry out brush and forest areas, increasing the fuel load in fire-prone areas. Winds may spark wildfires by knocking down power lines or causing them to arc, creating sparks. If wildfires do start, high winds can push flames quickly into new areas, contributing to the rapid spread of wildfires and making them harder to control.

As reflected in the Vulnerability Assessment, energy communication infrastructure, energy delivery and communication services, homes and residential structures, and public transit access are highly vulnerable to severe weather. Electricity transmission and distribution lines can be damaged or destroyed by highvelocity winds. This can cause secondary impacts, such as power outages, which would impact Cupertino residents and businesses. Homes, particularly older ones, may be constructed to less rigorous standards and/or may not be well maintained. This can increase their risk of damage during severe weather events, particularly high winds, and hail. High winds could disrupt energy delivery, causing the electrical grid to not function properly. If multiple sections or elements of the system fail (substations, power plants, electricity lines), City residents and businesses could be without power for hours, days, or weeks if severe.

Communication services may be knocked out by severe weather that damages communication towers.

Public transit access may be delayed or rerouted if roadways become impassable due to storms and other severe weather. If roadways completely fail, the transit services could be suspended for days or weeks. 165
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Public Safety Power Shutoff Events
Electricity utilities throughout California, including PG&E, have begun to occasionally “de-energize”, or turn off the electricity for power lines that run through areas with an elevated fire risk. PSPS events are intended to reduce the risk of power lines sparking or being damaged and starting a wildfire. As previously described, these activities, called PSPS events, result in a loss of power for customers served by the affected power lines. A PSPS event may occur at any time of the year, usually during high wind events and dry conditions. PSPS events may be limited to specific communities or affect broad swaths of the state. In October 2019, PG&E conducted one large-scale PSPS event, shutting off power to approximately 740,000 customers in 35 counties across the state, including customers in Cupertino. Several PSPS events also occurred in 2020 during widespread wildfires across northern California. While PSPS events have been smaller and less frequent recently, these events still pose a risk to PG&E customers across Santa Clara County, including Cupertino.

PSPS events can impact emergency management activities. A loss of power can make it more difficult for homes or businesses to receive emergency notifications. PSPS events can also create vulnerabilities for community members who lack backup power supplies and depend on electricity for heating or cooling homes and buildings, medical devices, lighting, and the internet. Additionally, community members may face economic hardships and be deprived of important services, such as grocery stores, gas stations, and banks/ATMs. Traffic lights and other traffic-control systems may not work, which can complicate evacuation needs and hinder emergency response. Although critical public health and safety facilities often have backup generators, the loss of power may also disable other key infrastructure systems.

Potential Changes to Severe Weather in Future Years
Likelihood of Future Occurrence
According to historical hazard data, severe weather is an annual occurrence in Santa Clara County.

Damage and disaster declarations related to severe weather have occurred and will continue to occur in the future. Heavy rain and thunderstorms are the county's most frequent type of severe weather occurrences. Wind and lightning often accompany these storms and have caused damage in the past.

However, damage associated with severe weather's primary effects has been limited. The secondary hazards caused by severe weather, such as floods and fire, have had the greatest impact on the county.

In general, any severe storm that affects Santa Clara County has local effects in Cupertino as well.

Thunderstorms, high winds, and lightning can each have localized impacts on infrastructure, properties, and public safety.

Climate Change and Severe Weather
Climate change is expected to cause an increase in intense rainfall and strong storm systems, such as atmospheric rivers. This increase means that Cupertino could see more intense weather resulting from these storms in the coming years and decades, although such an increase may not affect all forms of severe weather. While average annual rainfall may increase only slightly, climate change is expected to cause an increase in the number of years with intense levels of precipitation. Heavy rainfall can increase the frequency and severity of other hazards, including flooding. 166
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2.6.5 Human Health Hazards
Human health hazards are bacteria, viruses, parasites, and other organisms that can cause diseases and illness in people. Some of these diseases may cause only mild inconvenience, but others are potentially life-threatening. These diseases can be and often are carried by animals, such as mice and rats, ticks, and mosquitos. Warmer temperatures and high precipitation levels can lead to increased populations of disease-carrying animals, creating a greater risk of disease and increased rates of infection.

Populations most vulnerable to human health hazards are those who spend a disproportionate amount of time outdoors (such as outdoor workers or persons experiencing homelessness), those with fragile immune systems or existing illnesses (which may include persons with chronic illnesses and seniors), and those who may live in sub-standard housing or not have access to health insurance and medical care (households in poverty, low-resourced people of color, immigrant/linguistically isolated communities, and cost-burdened/low-income/overcrowded households). These persons may be living in conditions that increase their chances of catching vector-borne illnesses, lack the ability to fight off infections that may occur, or lack the financial resources to seek timely medical care. As reflected in the Vulnerability Assessment, several groups within Cupertino’s population are vulnerable to human health hazards, such as households in poverty, immigrant communities/linguistically isolated persons, low-resourced people of color, outdoor workers, persons experiencing homelessness, persons with chronic illnesses and/or disabilities, and seniors. According to the 2023 MJHMP, 9 past occurrences of human health hazards in
Santa Clara County since 2018 include COVID-19, Lyme disease, Valley Fever, and West Nile Virus.

Potential Changes to Human Health Hazards in Future Years Likelihood of Future Occurrence
Human health hazards have occurred in the past and, therefore, will likely occur in the future at various scales and levels of severity.

Climate Change and Human Health Hazards
Increases in average temperature and changes in precipitation patterns favoring larger precipitation events may facilitate the growth and activity of disease-carrying vectors. Many of the vector-carrying organisms thrive in warmer and wetter conditions. The overall risk of human health hazards is thus expected to increase.
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3.1 OVERVIEW
The Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment analyzes how climate-related hazards may harm the community using the four-step process recommended in the California Adaptation Planning Guide. Figure S-10 illustrates the recommended four-step process. This analysis describes the degree to which natural, built, and human systems are susceptible to harm from exposure to stresses associated with environmental and social change and from the absence of capacity to adapt.

Figure S-10 California Adaptation Planning Guide Vulnerability Assessment Process The Vulnerability Assessment considers the threats from all relevant natural hazards, which are events or physical conditions that have the potential to cause harm or loss and will emphasize changes to hazard frequency and severity due to climate change. The Vulnerability Assessmentincludes eight climate-related hazards: air quality and smoke, drought, extreme heat, flooding, human health hazards, landslides, severe storms, and wildfire. The Vulnerability Assessment assesses 45 different population groups and community assets facing potential harm from the hazards. This assessment includes the risk of physical damage to buildings and infrastructure, the social vulnerability of persons likely to be disproportionately harmed by hazards, potential disruption to the city’s economic engines, and loss of essential services.

Step 4: Prioritize Vulnerability
Determine how susceptible a population or asset is to harm from a particlar hazard.

Step 3: Assess Adaptive Capacity
Assess the ability of populations and community assets to prepare for, respond to, and recover from the impacts of climate change using existing resources and programs.

Step 2: Identify Sensitivities and Potential Impacts
Identify populations and assets Evaluate potential impacts of each relevant hazard Step 1: Identify Exposure
Characterize the community’s exposure to current and projected climate change hazards

3. VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT RESULTS
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3.2 ITEMS INCLUDED IN THE CUPERTINO VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT The City included the following populations and other assets in the Vulnerability Assessment. Each list includes a description and source of data needed to support the Vulnerability Assessment.

3.2.1 Populations
The City collected population data from the U.S. Census (American Community Survey and Decennial Census), the California Healthy Places Index, and the Santa Clara County Homeless Point-in-Time Count.

The American Community Survey data is an estimate only with some margin of error. The 16 populations evaluated include:

1. Children and youth (under 18).

2. Cost-burdened/low-income/overcrowded households: households paying 30 percent or more of their income towards housing expenses.25 The State identifies $131,750 as the low-income threshold for a household of four people in Santa Clara County in 2022. 26 Six percent of Cupertino residents earn incomes at or below poverty level.27 Overcrowded households include housing units that have 1.0 persons or more per room (excluding bathrooms and kitchens).

3. Households in poverty: households with an income below the poverty line, which is $27,750 for a household of four. 28

4. Immigrant communities/linguistically isolated persons: Communities consisting of foreign-born populations, including immigrants, refugees, and undocumented persons. Linguistically isolated persons include households without a member who is fluent in English. Chinese, Hindi, and Japanese are the primary languages in Cupertino among households that are not fluent in English. 29

5. Low-resourced people of color: Persons identifying as a member of a racial and/or ethnic group and facing limited access to resources, such as financial, social, healthcare, or educational assistance. 30, 31

6. Outdoor workers: Workers in landscaping, construction, outdoor recreation, etc.

7. Persons experiencing homelessness: 2022 Point-in-Time count reported 102 total persons experiencing homelessness (all unsheltered) within the City of Cupertino.32

8. Persons living on single-access roads (roads with only a single entry or exit point). Single-access roads are generally to the west, near the hillsides of the community.

9. Persons with chronic illnesses and/or disabilities.

10. Persons without a high school degree.

11. Persons without access to lifelines: Persons without reliable access to a car, transit, or communication systems.

12. Renters.

13. Seniors (age 65 and older). Seniors constitute 15 percent of Cupertino’s population. 33

14. Seniors living alone.

15. Students.

16. Unemployed persons.

3.2.2 Infrastructure
The City gathered details on infrastructure from State and local GIS data, and the 2023 Santa Clara County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan. These seven asset groups are:

1. Energy and communication infrastructure:
a. Transmission Lines: PG&E
b. Natural gas pipelines and structures: PG&E
c. Cell towers, radio sites, fiber-optic lines, and internet lines 169
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2. Flood-control and stormwater infrastructure

3. Vehicle fuel stations
a. Electric vehicle charging stations: 13 public charging stations b. Gas stations

4. Hazardous materials sites: 13 cleanup sites

5. Transportation infrastructure
a. Freeways: I-280
b. State highways: SR-85
c. Local roads: Stevens Creek Boulevard, North De Anza Boulevard, South De Anza Boulevard, North Wolfe Road, Miller Avenue, North Stelling Road, South Stelling Road, McClellan Road, Steven Canyons Road, South Foothills Boulevard, Rainbow Drive, Bubb Road, Prospect Road, Bollinger Road, North Blaney Avenue, South Blaney Avenue d. Bridges and culverts: Seven local bridges
e. Transit facilities: Valley Transportation Authority stops f. Railway: Union Pacific Railroad

6. Parks, Open Space, and Trails
a. Community Parks: McClellan Ranch, McClellan Ranch West (Simms Property), Blackberry Farm Park, Blackberry Farm Golf Course, Franco Park, Memorial Park, Sports Center, Mary Avenue Dog Park, Cali Mill Plaza Park, Civic Center Park, Library Plaza, Civic Center Plaza, Main Street Park Easement, Town Square Easement, Little Rancho Park b. Neighborhood Parks: Linda Vista, Varian Park, Monta Vista, Villa Serra, Sommerset Square, Jollyman, Wilson Park, Library Field, Creekside, Sterling Barnhart, Portal Park, Three Oaks, Hoover
c. Open Space Areas: Stocklmeir Ranch, Stevens Creek Trail, Oak Valley, Canyon Oak Park

7. Bicycling and pedestrian trails.34, 35, 36

8. Water and wastewater infrastructure: California Water Service (north of Stevens Creek Boulevard), San Jose Water (south of Stevens Creek Boulevard), Cupertino Sanitary District, San José-Santa Clara Regional Wastewater Facility.

3.2.3 Buildings
The City collected buildings data from Google Maps, the California School Database, and local agency websites and GIS records. These six assets are:

1. Government and community facilities: Cupertino City Offices, Cupertino Emergency Operations Center, Quinlan Community Center, Cupertino Library, Cupertino Senior Center, and Cupertino Sports Center

2. Commercial centers: Homestead Square Shopping Center, De Anza Shopping Center, Main Street Cupertino, the Crossroads, the Marketplace, and Cupertino Village

3. Medical and care facilities: Kaiser Permanente, Urgent Care Cupertino, Sunshine Health Care Center, Sacred Heart Clinic, Foothill Medical Clinic, Prairie Health, Golden Apple Medical Group, and adult care and senior living facilities

4. Homes and residential structures: Multifamily and single-family residences

5. Public safety buildings: Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office and Santa Clara County Fire Department (Cupertino Fire Station)
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6. Schools: Cupertino Union School District (20 elementary schools and 5 middle schools), Fremont Union High School District (Cupertino High School, Homestead High School, and Monte Vista High School), De Anza College, and private schools (Monta Vista Christian School, Stratford School - Cupertino Raynor Campus, St. Joseph of Cupertino School, West Valley Christian School, Villa Montessori)

3.2.4 Economic Drivers
The City determined important economic assets based on the 2021 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report and land uses within the city. These five assets are:

1. Major employers: Apple Inc., Cupertino Union School District, Corinthian International Parking Services, Synophic Systems Inc., and De Anza Community College District

2. Education services

3. Technology, research, and development

4. Commercial and retail centers

5. Outdoor recreation

3.2.5 Ecosystems and Natural Resources
The City determined the ecosystems and natural resources based on information from the Environmental Resources Element of the General Plan. These four resource types include:

1. Riparian

2. Grasslands

3. Brushlands

4. Foothill Woodlands and Forests

3.2.6 Key Services
These assets are based on typical services provided in cities throughout California, which are supported by the infrastructure and buildings listed previously. Key community services include the operation and functions needed to provide and maintain services. The Vulnerability Assessment assesses the infrastructure and people needed to support them separately. These seven services are:

1. Education services: Cupertino Union School District, Fremont Union High School District, private schools, and childcare.

2. Emergency services: Emergency Operations Center, Santa Clara County Fire Department, and Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office

3. Energy delivery and communication services: Silicon Valley Clean Energy, PG&E, radio, television, cellular and landline phone, and internet

4. Government administration and community services

5. Public transit access: Valley Transportation Authority Bus Routes

6. Solid waste removal: Recology South Bay

7. Water and wastewater: California Water Service (north of Stevens Creek Boulevard), San Jose Water (south of Stevens Creek Boulevard), and Cupertino Sanitary District 171
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3.3 VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT RESULTS
Table 5-1 shows the results of the Vulnerability Assessment prepared for Cupertino, in accordance with the requirements of Senate Bill 379. For each population or asset that may be vulnerable to each climaterelated hazard, the population or asset is scored on a scale of low to high. The vulnerability scores reflect both the severity of climate-related impacts and the ability of populations and assets to resist and recover from these effects. The City assessed 287 different pairings for vulnerability, 89 of which scored as highly vulnerable. The following matrix provides the scores for each population and assets to each relevant hazard. Gray cells with a dash (-) indicate that a specific hazard is not applicable to a specific population or asset, and therefore was not scored. Refer to the “Climate Change” and “Vulnerable Populations and Assets” sections of the Health and Safety Element for additional details on the Vulnerability Assessment method.
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Appendix H: Health and Safety Element Background Report | March 2025 Page SE-51 Table S-1. Vulnerability Assessment Results
Populations & Assets
Hazards
Air Quality and
Smoke Drought Extreme Heat Flooding Human Health Hazards Sea Level Rise Landslides Severe Weather Wildfire Populations
Children and youth (under 18) High Low High Medium Medium - Medium Medium Medium Cost-burdened/low-income/overcrowded households Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium - Low Medium Medium Households in poverty High Medium High High High - Medium High High Immigrant communities/linguistically isolated persons Medium Medium High Medium High - High High High Low-resourced people of color Medium Medium High High High - Medium High Medium Outdoor workers High Medium High Medium High - Medium Medium High Persons experiencing homelessness High Medium High High High - Low High High Persons living on single access roads (roads with only a single entry or exit point) Low Low Low High Low - High High High Persons with chronic illnesses and/or disabilities High Medium High High High - High High High Persons without a high school degree Low Low Low Medium Low - Low Low Low Persons without access to lifelines Medium Low High High Medium - Medium Medium Medium Renters Medium Low Medium High Low - Medium Low Low
Seniors (65+) High Low High High High - Medium Medium High Seniors living alone High Low High High High - High High High Students Low Low Low Medium Low - Low Medium Medium
Unemployed persons Low Low Medium Medium Medium - Low Medium Medium Buildings and Infrastructure
Government and community facilities - - Low Medium - - - Low - Commercial centers - - Low Medium - - - Medium -
Energy and communication infrastructure - - High - - - High High - Flood control and stormwater infrastructure - - - High - Low Medium Medium Low Vehicle fuel stations - - Low Medium - - - Low -
Hazardous materials sites - - - Medium - - - Medium -
Transportation Infrastructure - - Low High - High Medium Medium Medium Medical care and assisted living facilities - - Low Low - - Low Medium - Homes and residential structures - - Medium High - - Medium High Medium Parks, Open Space, and Trails - High Medium Low - - Medium Medium Medium Public safety buildings - - Low Medium - - - Medium -
Schools - - Medium High - - Low Medium -
Water and wastewater infrastructure - Medium Low High - - High Low Low Economic Drivers
Major employers - Low Medium Medium Medium - - Low -
Education services Medium Low Medium Medium Medium - Medium Medium - 173
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Populations & Assets
Hazards
Air Quality and
Smoke Drought Extreme Heat Flooding Human Health Hazards Sea Level Rise Landslides Severe Weather Wildfire Technology, research, and development Low Low Low Medium Medium - - Low - Commercial and retail centers Medium Medium Medium Low High - - Medium - Outdoor recreation High Medium High Medium Low - Medium Medium Medium Ecosystem and Natural Resources
Riparian - High Medium Medium - - Medium High High
Grasslands - Low Low Low - - Low Low Medium
Brushlands - Medium Medium Low - - Low Low High
Foothill woodlands and forests - Medium Medium Low - - Low Medium High Key Services
Education services Medium Low Medium Medium Medium - Medium Medium - Emergency services Medium - Low Medium High - Medium Medium Low Energy delivery and communication services Low Low High High Low - High High High Government administration & community services Medium - Low High Low - Low Low Low Public transit access High - High High Low - Medium High Medium Solid waste removal Medium - Medium Medium Medium - Medium - Medium Water and wastewater Medium High Medium - - High High - High 174
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Appendix H: Health and Safety Element Background Report | March 2025 Page SE-53 1 BestPlaces, n.d. Climate in Cupertino. https://www.bestplaces.net/city/california/cupertino. 2 Cal-Adapt. 2023. Annual Averages. https://cal-adapt.org/tools/annual-averages. 3 United States Census Bureau. 2024. Cupertino city, California. https://data.census.gov/profile/Cupertino_city,_California?g=160XX00US0617610. Accessed January 17, 2024.
4 Cupertino, City of. 2023. 6th Cycle Housing Element 2023-2031: Second Draft. Submitted to HCD on October 16, 2023. https://engagecupertino.org/public-documents. 5 Bedsworth, Louise, Dan Cayan, Guido Franco, Leah Fisher, Sonya Ziaja (California Governor’s Office of Planning and Research, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, California Energy Commission, California Public Utilities Commission). 2018. Statewide Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: SUMCCCA4-2018-013.
6 Cal OES. Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS). https://www.caloes.ca.gov/office-ofthe-director/operations/planning-preparedness-prevention/california-specialized-traininginstitute/hazardous-materials-program/standardized-emergency-management-system-sems/ 7 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. 2023. Storm Events Database. https://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/stormevents/
8 United States Geological Survey (USGS). 2003. Map of Active Fault Traces, Geomorphic Features and Quaternary Surficial Deposits Along The Central Calaveras Fault, Santa Clara County, California.https://earthquake.usgs.gov/cfusion/external_grants/reports/01HQGR0212.pdf. 9 IEM. 2023. Draft Santa Clara County Multi-jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan. Volume 1: Base Plan. 10 U.S. Geological Survey. 2015, March. UCEFR3: A New Earthquake Forecast for California’s Complex Fault System. https://pubs.usgs.gov/fs/2015/3009/pdf/fs2015-3009.pdf. 11 United States Geological Survey (USGS). M 6.9 - The 1989 Loma Prieta, California Earthquake. https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/nc216859/impact 12 CAL FIRE. 2025, February 3 (accessed). Historical Fire Perimeters. https://www.fire.ca.gov/what-wedo/fire-resource-assessment-program/fire-perimeters 13 U.S. Department of Transportation. 2023. Incident Statistics. https://portal.phmsa.dot.gov/analytics/saw.dll?Portalpages&PortalPath=%2Fshared%2FPublic%20Webs ite%20Pages%2F_portal%2FHazmat%20Incident%20Report%20Search. 14 California Department of Toxic Substances Control. 2023. EnviroStor Database. https://www.envirostor.dtsc.ca.gov/public/map/?myaddress. 15 Bay Area Air Quality Management District. 2023. Air Quality Summary Reports. https://www.baaqmd.gov/about-air-quality/air-quality-measurement/air-quality-summaries. 16 Bay Area Air Quality Management District. April 19, 2017. Final 2017 Clean Air Plan. Appendix C.

Available: https://www.baaqmd.gov/~/media/files/planning-and-research/plans/2017-clean-airplan/attachment-a-proposed-final-cap-vol-1-pdf.pdf?la=en. 17 David Ackerly, Andrew Jones, Mark Stacey, and Bruce Riordan. University of California, Berkeley. 2018.

San Francisco Bay Area Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. https://www.energy.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2019-11/Reg_Report-SUM-CCCA4-2018- 005_SanFranciscoBayArea_ADA.pdf. 18 Cal-Adapt. 2023. Snowpack. https://cal-adapt.org/tools/snowpack/.

END NOTES
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19 National Weather Service. N.D. July 12-15, 1995 Deadly Heat Wave. https://www.weather.gov/mkx/1995_heat-wave. 20 Vaidyanathan A, Malilay J, Schramm P, Saha S. Heat-Related Deaths - United States, 2004-2018.

MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2020 Jun 19;69(24):729-734. doi: 10.15585/mmwr.mm6924a1. PMID:
32555133; PMCID: PMC7302478.
21 United States Census Bureau. 2023. Cupertino city, California. ACS 5-Year Estimates, Year Structure Built. B25034. https://data.census.gov/table?q=B25034:+Year+Structure+Built&g=160XX00US0617610. 22 Huang, J., H. Akbari, and H. Taha. 1990. The Wind-Shielding and Shading Effects of Trees on Residential Heating and Cooling Requirements. ASHRAE Winter Meeting, American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers. Atlanta, Georgia. 23 Kurn, D., S. Bretz, B. Huang, and H. Akbari. 1994. The Potential for Reducing Urban Air Temperatures and Energy Consumption through Vegetative Cooling. ACEEE Summer Study on Energy Efficiency in Buildings, American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy. Pacific Grove, California. 24 Cal-Adapt. 2024.Extreme Heat Days and Warm Nights. https://cal-adapt.org/tools/extreme-heat. 25 City of Cupertino. 2015. City of Cupertino Housing Element 2015-2023. https://www.cupertino.org/home/showpublisheddocument/12736/636317559509530000. 26 California Department of Housing and Community Development. 2022. State Income Limits for 2022. https://www.hcd.ca.gov/docs/grants-and-funding/inc2k22.pdf. 27 United States Census Bureau. 2023. Cupertino city, California. https://data.census.gov/cedsci/profile?g=1600000US0617610. 28 Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation. 2023. “HHS Poverty Guidelines for 2023.” https://aspe.hhs.gov/topics/poverty-economic-mobility/poverty-guidelines. 29 American Community Survey. 2015. 2015: ACS 5-Year Estimates, Language Spoken at Home by Ability to Speak English for the Population 5 Years and Over, B16001. https://data.census.gov/table?q=Table+B16001&g=160XX00US0617610&tid=ACSDT5Y2015.B16001. 30 Public Health Alliance of Southern California. 2018. Healthy Places Index. https://map.healthyplacesindex.org/
31 Roos, Michelle (E4 Strategic Solutions). 2018. Climate Justice Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: SUM-CCCA4-2018-012. 32 County of Santa Clara. 2022. Santa Clara County: 2022 Homeless Point in Time Count and Survey. https://osh.sccgov.org/sites/g/files/exjcpb671/files/documents/2022%20PIT%20Report%20Santa%20Clar a%20County.pdf. 33 United States Census Bureau. 2023. QuickFacts Cupertino city, California. https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/cupertinocitycalifornia/PST045219. 34 Valley Transportation Authority. 2015. Valley Transportation Plan 2040: The Long-Range Transportation Plan for Santa Clara County.
https://www.vta.org/sites/default/files/2022-09/VTP-2040_Final.pdf. 35 City of Cupertino. Bicycle Transportation Plan. 2016. https://www.cupertino.org/home/showpublisheddocument/3479/636443578340030000. 36 City of Cupertino. 2018. Pedestrian Transportation Plan. https://www.cupertino.org/home/showpublisheddocument/16864/636650034974470000. 176
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Cupertino
Evacuation Route
Capacity Assessment
Submitted to:

City of Cupertino
Submitted in:

October 2025
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Evacuation Route
Capacity
Assessment
Prepared for: Submitted in:

City of Cupertino October 2025
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Table of Contents

1. Introduction ................................................................................................................................. 1

1.1 Study Purpose......................................................................................................................................................... 1

1.2 Study Context........................................................................................................................................................ 1

1.3 Natural Hazards ....................................................................................................................................................2

1.3.1 Flood and Inundation Hazards ...............................................................................................................2

1.3.2 Seismic And Geologic Hazards ............................................................................................................3

1.3.3 Fire Hazards ...............................................................................................................................................4

1.3.4 Hazardous Waste And Materials ..........................................................................................................5

2. Background................................................................................................................................ 6

2.1 Legislative Requirements ..................................................................................................................................6

2.2 Emergency Planning in Cupertino.................................................................................................................6

3. Approach and Methods............................................................................................................. 8

3.1 Identify the Evacuation Scenarios ..................................................................................................................8

3.2 Define the Evacuation Area.............................................................................................................................11

3.3 Define Evacuation Routes................................................................................................................................11

3.4 Estimate Vehicle Trips......................................................................................................................................11

3.5 Assign Vehicle Trips.........................................................................................................................................14

3.6 Evacuation Route Assessment ......................................................................................................................15

3.6.1 Assessing Evacuation Route Capacity ..............................................................................................15

3.6.2 Distance to Evacuation Gateway.......................................................................................................17

4. Evacuation Route Assessment................................................................................................18

4.1 Estimate Evacuation Vehicle Trips................................................................................................................18

4.1.1 Resident and Employee Population ....................................................................................................18

4.1.2 Student Population .................................................................................................................................19

4.1.3 Visitor Population.................................................................................................................................. 20

4.1.4 Total Estimated Evacuation Demand.............................................................................................. 20

4.2 Evaluating Evacuation Route Capacity.......................................................................................................21

4.2.1 Scenario A (Quantitative Analysis).....................................................................................................21

4.2.2 Scenario B (Quantitative Analysis) ..................................................................................................23

4.2.3 Scenario C (Qualitative Analysis) .....................................................................................................27

4.3 Analyzing Distance to Evacuation Gateways ...........................................................................................27

5. Recommendations................................................................................................................... 29

5.1 Supply-Side Strategies ....................................................................................................................................29

5.2 Demand-Side Strategies............................................................................................................................... 30 179
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5.3 Information-Side Strategies......................................................................................................................... 30

5.4 Additional Considerations ............................................................................................................................ 30 Appendices
Appendix A: Socioeconomic Data
Appendix B: Trip Distribution
List of Figures
Figure 1: Fire Hazard Severity Zones ......................................................................................................................... 10 Figure 2: Evacuation Routes.........................................................................................................................................13 Figure 3: Trip Distribution for Scenario A............................................................................................................... 22 Figure 4: Trip Distribution for Scenario B............................................................................................................... 25 Figure 5: Distances to Evacuation Gateways ........................................................................................................ 28 Figure A-1: Census Block Group and Census Tract Locations .........................................................................34 Figure A-2: Genasys Protect Zone Locations (highlighted numbers in study area)................................. 36 Figure A-3: Transportation Analysis Zone (TAZ) Locations (light blue indicates study area) ............... 38 List of Tables
Table 1: Scenario Definitions..........................................................................................................................................9 Table 2: Vehicle Demand Calculations in the Evacuation Area......................................................................... 14 Table 3: Planning Level Roadway Capacity per Hour per Lane ......................................................................... 15 Table 4: Evacuation Route Capacity ..........................................................................................................................16 Table 5: Composition of Evacuees by Scenario .................................................................................................... 18 Table 6: Resident Population and Evacuation Demand Vehicle Trips of the Evacuation Area .................19 Table 7: Employee Population and Evacuation Demand Vehicle Trips of the Evacuation Area ...............19 Table 8: Student Population and Evacuation Demand Vehicle Trips of the Evacuation Area................. 20 Table 9: Visitor Land Use and Evacuation Demand of the Evacuation Area ................................................ 20 Table 10: Total Estimated Evacuation Demand Vehicle Trips for the Evacuation Area............................. 20 Table 11: Evacuation Route Link Capacity Analysis (Scenario A)...................................................................... 23 Table 12: Evacuation Route Link Capacity Analysis (Scenario B) .................................................................... 26 Table A-1: Summary of Socioeconomic Data – Census1.................................................................................... 33 180
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Table A-2: Summary of Socioeconomic Data – Genasys Protect1.................................................................. 35 Table A-3: Summary of Socioeconomic Data – Santa Clara County VMT Estimation Tool1....................37 Table A-4: School Enrollment Data .......................................................................................................................... 39 Table A-5: Estimated Student Evacuation Trips................................................................................................... 39 Table A-6: Estimated Visitor Evacuation Trips .....................................................................................................40 Table B-1: Trip Distribution Linked to Genasys Protect Zones (Scenario A) ................................................42 Table B-2: Trip Distribution Linked to Genasys Protect Zones (Scenario B)...............................................43 Table B-3: Trip Distribution Linked to Genasys Protect Zones (Scenario C) ..............................................44 181
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1. Introduction
The City of Cupertino's comprehensive planning efforts make it appropriate to assess evacuation route capacity while simultaneously updating the General Plan and Emergency Operations Plan.

This assessment provides the City of Cupertino with emergency evacuation event information and is consistent with requirements outlined in Assembly Bill (AB) 747 (2019) and AB 1409 (2021), which specifically require local agencies to evaluate evacuation routes capacity and identify evacuation locations. This supplements the analysis that was prepared for the Draft Health and Safety Element Update (March 2025) regarding residential street accessibility to identify parcels in hazard areas with limited egress routes as required by Senate Bill (SB) 99.

1.1 Study Purpose
The following is a summary of the purpose of this evacuation study:
• Identify major evacuation routes and shelter locations/gateways; • Inform development of evacuation strategies and conduct evacuation route capacity assessment of wildfire evacuation scenarios with other hazards that could limit evacuation route capacity;
• Identify bottlenecks on major evacuation routes based on the evacuation route capacity assessment results;
• Identify evacuation strategies to improve performance of the road network during evacuations; and
• Identify potential future/ongoing efforts for a detailed Evacuation Plan.

1.2 Study Context
This assessment evaluates roadway capacity under certain described scenarios and should not be considered an evacuation plan. Emergency evacuations can be triggered by a number of events, and natural and man-made disasters can be as unpredictable as individual behavior related to evacuation events. As such, this assessment is intended to provide the City of Cupertino with a broad “planning level” assessment of transportation system capacity during worst case evacuation scenarios; it does not provide system adequacy guarantees, nor does it guarantee the findings are applicable to all situations. This assessment will help the City develop policies to prioritize evacuation routes and centers based on the findings of this analysis.

Moreover, because emergency evacuation assessment is an emerging field, there is no established standard methodology. We have utilized existing methods in transportation planning that, in our knowledge and experience, we believe offer the most appropriate planning level understanding of roadway capacity for evacuation events. Nevertheless, such methods are limited by the budgetary and time constraints in our scope of work, by the current state of the practice, and of our knowledge.

The City of Cupertino has requested this study to aid in planning and implementing potential evacuation plans/scenarios. This assessment should help the city be better prepared for those events; however, in no way can Fehr & Peers guarantee the efficacy of the information used in this assessment, as such would be beyond our professional duty and capability. 182
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1.3 Natural Hazards
The Health and Safety Element Background Report (July 23, 2025) described the following potential natural hazards. For this assessment, we considered various natural hazards in the preparation of evacuation scenarios. The natural hazards are described

1.3.1 Flood and Inundation Hazards
Flooding is the rising and overflowing of water onto normally dry land. Floods are one of the most frequent natural hazards impacting Santa Clara County and among the costliest natural disasters in terms of human hardship and economic loss nationwide, causing substantial damage to structures, landscapes, and utilities, as well as life-safety issues. Flooding can be extremely dangerous; even six inches of moving water can knock a person over. Floodwaters can transport large objects downstream, damaging or removing stationary structures, such as dam spillways. Ground saturation can result in instability, collapse, or other damage that breaks utility lines and interrupts services.

Objects can also be buried or destroyed through sediment deposition from heavy flooding. Standing water can cause damage to roads, foundations, and electrical circuits, as well as spread vector-borne illnesses. Other problems connected with flooding and stormwater runoff include erosion, degradation of water quality, and losses of environmental resources.

Floods are usually caused by large amounts of stormwater, either from a period of very intense rainfall or a long period of steady rain. Historically, Cupertino has been at risk of flooding primarily during the winter and spring when stream systems swell with heavy rain. This type of flood results from prolonged, heavy rainfall and typically occurs due to high peak flows of moderate duration and a large volume of runoff. Flooding is more severe when prior rainfall has saturated the ground. The watersheds in the Santa Cruz Mountains feed into four major streambeds that traverse the city, Permanente Creek, Stevens Creek, Regnart Creek, and Calabazas Creek. These creeks collect surface runoff and drain into channels leading to the San Francisco Bay. During heavy rainfall, these creeks create a potential flooding risk in the city as water levels may exceed the top of the creekbank.

Occasionally, flash flooding from short-duration, high-intensity precipitation events (often during atmospheric river events) may occur. Atmospheric rivers are a relatively common weather pattern that brings southwest winds and heavy rain to California. Atmospheric rivers are long, narrow regions in the atmosphere that transport water vapor carried away from the tropics. These columns of vapor move with the weather, carrying large amounts of water vapor and strong winds. When the atmospheric rivers make landfall, they often release this water vapor in the form of rain or snow, often causing heavy rains that can lead to flooding and mudslide events. Flash floods can occur even during a drought. Such events can tear out trees, undermine buildings and bridges, and scour creek channels. In urban areas, flash flooding is an increasingly serious problem due to removing vegetation and replacing groundcover with impermeable surfaces such as roads, driveways, and parking lots.

The greatest risk from flash floods is occurrence with little to no warning.

1.3.1.1 Dam and Pipeline Failure
A dam failure is an uncontrolled release of water from a reservoir through a dam because of structural failures or deficiencies in the dam, usually associated with intense rainfall or prolonged flooding.

Water pipeline or aqueduct failures can create a similar sudden flood. Dam and pipeline failures can range from minor to catastrophic, potentially harming human life and property downstream from the failure. In addition, ecosystems and habitats can be destroyed by fast-moving floodwaters, debris, 183
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and sedimentation from inundation. Although dam and pipeline failures are very rare, these events are not unprecedented. There are four major causes of failures:
• Overtopping: These failures occur when a reservoir fills too high with water, especially in times of heavy rainfall, leaving water to rush over the top of the dam. Other causes of this type of failure include settling of the crest of the dam or spillway blockage. • Foundation defects: These failures occur as a result of settling in the foundation of the dam, instability of slopes surrounding the dam, uplift pressures, and seepage around the foundation. All these failures result in structural instability and potential dam failure. • Piping and seepage failures: These failures occur as a result of internal erosion caused by seepage and erosion along hydraulic structures, such as the spillways of a dam, or failures in the walls of a water pipeline. Animal burrows and cracks in the dam structure may also cause erosion. • Conduit and valve failure: These failures occur as a result of problems with valves and conduits in a dam or pipeline’s systems.

Many dam and pipeline failures are also the secondary result of other natural disasters, such as earthquakes, landslides, and extreme storms. Other causes include equipment malfunction, structural damage, and sabotage. Dams are constructed with safety features known as “spillways” that allow water to overtop the dam if the reservoir fills too quickly. Spillway overflow events, often referred to as “design failures”, result in increased discharges downstream and increased flooding potential. In a dam failure scenario, the greatest threat to life and property typically occurs in those areas immediately below the dam since flood depths and discharges generally decrease as the flood wave moves downstream. The primary danger associated with dam failure is the high-velocity flooding downstream of the dam and limited warning times for evacuation.

1.3.2 Seismic And Geologic Hazards
Seismic and geologic hazards are risks caused by the movement of different parts of the earth’s crust or surface. Seismic hazards include earthquakes and hazardous events caused by them. Geologic hazards are other hazards involving land movements that are not linked to seismic activity and can inflict harm to people or property. Additional information about seismic and geologic hazards in Cupertino, including development review coordination is in General Plan Appendix E, Geologic and Seismic Hazards.

1.3.2.1 Seismic Hazards
Seismic activity occurs along boundaries in the earth’s crust, called faults. Pressure along the faults builds over time and is ultimately released, resulting in ground shaking commonly referred to as an earthquake. Earthquakes can also trigger other hazards, including surface rupture (cracks in the ground surface), liquefaction (causing loose soil to lose its strength), landslides, and subsidence (sinking of the ground surface). Earthquakes and other seismic hazards often damage or destroy property and public infrastructure, including utility lines, and falling objects or structures pose a risk of injury or death.

1.3.2.1.1 EARTHQUAKES
While Cupertino is at risk from many natural and human-caused hazards, the event with the greatest potential for loss of life or property and economic damage is an earthquake. This risk is true for most of the San Francisco Bay Area region since damaging earthquakes affect widespread areas and trigger many secondary effects that can overwhelm the ability of local jurisdictions to respond. 184
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Earthquakes in the Bay Area result from strain energy constantly accumulating across the region because of the motion of the Pacific Plate, relative to the North American Plate.

Earthquake risk is very high in Santa Clara County, including the City of Cupertino, due to the presence of three major active faults1in the region, the Hayward Fault, Calaveras Fault, and San Andreas Fault. Both the San Andreas and the Hayward Faults have the potential for experiencing major to great events.

1.3.2.1.2 OTHER SEISMIC HAZARDS
In addition to the direct physical damage that can result from the motion of an earthquake, damage can result from liquefaction. Liquefaction occurs primarily in saturated, loose, fine- to mediumgrained soils in areas where the groundwater table is within approximately 50 feet of the surface.

Shaking causes the soils to lose strength and behave as a liquid. Excess water pressure is vented upward through fissures and soil cracks and can result in a water-soil slurry flowing onto the ground surface. This subsurface process can lead to near-surface or surface ground failure that can result in property damage and structural failure. Groundwater that is less than 10 feet to the surface can cause the highest liquefaction susceptibility, with lower groundwater levels causing lower liquefaction risks.

1.3.2.2 Geologic Hazards
Landslides and rock falls may occur in sloped areas, especially areas with steep slopes, and usually in loose and fragmented soil areas. Slope stability depends on many factors and interrelationships, including rock type, pore water pressure, slope steepness, and natural or human-made undercutting.

Landslides, rockfalls, and debris flows occur continuously on all slopes; some processes act very slowly, while others occur very suddenly, often with disastrous results.

Landslides are often triggered by other natural hazards, such as heavy rain, floods, or wildfires, so landslide frequency is often related to the frequency of these other hazards. In Santa Clara County, landslides typically occur during and after severe heavy rainfall, so the risk of landslides often rises during and after sequential severe storms that saturate steep, loose soils. Landslides and mudslides are a common occurrence and have caused damage to homes, public facilities, roads, parks, and sewer lines.

1.3.3 Fire Hazards
Fire hazards include both wildfires and urban fires. The combination of complex terrain, climate, vegetation and development patterns contribute to an elevated risk of wildfire. The Community Wildfire Protection Plan 2023 (CWPP) describes how each of these variables contributes to fire risk, and describes how fire risk varies throughout the city. Historically, the fire season extended from early summer through late fall of each year during the hotter, dryer months, although it is increasingly a hazard that can occur year-round. Fire conditions arise from a combination of high temperatures, low moisture content in the air and plant matter, an accumulation of vegetation, and high winds.

Three types of fires are of concern to Cupertino: (1) wildfires, (2) wildland-urban interface fires, and (3) structural fires.
1 Active faults are defined by their current movement and deformation and their potential to cause earthquakes or other types of ground deformation in the future.
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1.3.3.1 Wildfires
Wildfires occur on mountains, hillsides, and grasslands. Fuel, weather, and topography are primary factors that affect how wildland fires spread. In and around Cupertino, grassland and woodland habitat provide highly flammable fuel that is conducive to wildfires. These plant species are capable of regeneration after a fire, making periodic wildfires a natural part of the ecology of these areas.

The climate of Cupertino and the surrounding area keeps the grass dry and more readily combustible during fire season.

Wildfire potential for Santa Clara County is typically greatest in the months of August, September, and October, when dry vegetation coexists with hot, dry winds. During these times, controlling a fire becomes far more difficult. Areas adjacent to the city that are susceptible to wildfires are also of concern as these conditions could exacerbate vulnerabilities within the city. Grassland fires are easily ignited, particularly in dry seasons. These fires are relatively easily controlled if they can be reached by fire equipment, although after a fire, the burned slopes are highly subject to erosion and gullying. While brushlands are naturally adapted to frequent light fires, fire suppression in recent decades has resulted in heavy fuel accumulation on the ground. Wildland fires, particularly near the end of the dry season, tend to burn fast and very hot, threatening homes and leading to serious destruction of vegetative cover. In woodland and forested areas, a wildland fire can generate a destructive crown fire, which is a fire that burns materials at the top of trees, spreading from treetop to treetop. They can be very intense and difficult to contain.

Because areas of the city with natural vegetation are extremely flammable during late summer and fall, wildfire is a serious hazard in undeveloped hillside areas in the western portion of the city, as well as open space areas adjacent to the city. These areas include State Responsibility Area (SRA) lands west of the city, such as the Rancho San Antonio Open Space, Picchette Ranch Open Space, Stevens Creek County Park, Saratoga Creek County Park, Sanborn County Park, Fremont Older Open Space, as well as Local Responsibility Area (LRA) lands in the hillsides of Saratoga.

1.3.4 Hazardous Waste And Materials
Hazardous materials are materials that pose a significant risk to public safety, or human and environmental health. These include toxic chemicals, flammable or corrosive materials, petroleum products, and unstable or dangerously reactive materials. They can be released through human error, malfunctioning or broken equipment, or as an indirect consequence of other emergencies (e.g., if a flood damages a hazardous material storage tank). Hazardous materials can also be released accidentally during transportation because of vehicle accidents.

The release or spill of bulk hazardous materials could result in fire, explosion, toxic cloud, or direct contamination of water, people, and property. The effects may involve a local site or many square miles. Health problems may be immediate, such as corrosive effects on the skin and lungs, or gradual, such as the development of cancer from a carcinogen. Property damage could range from immediate destruction by explosion to permanent contamination by a persistent hazardous material. Most hazardous materials in the region are transported on truck routes along major roadways, such as I280 and SR-85 that pass through Cupertino. The most vulnerable areas along this route are considered the on-/off-ramps and interchanges. Since 1970, one reported roadway hazardous materials incident occurred in Cupertino.
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2. Background

2.1 Legislative Requirements
Assembly Bill (AB) 747 (2019) and AB 1409 (2021) both mandate local jurisdictions to update their safety elements to include comprehensive evacuation planning. • AB 747 (2019) adds California Government Code Section 65302.15, which requires the safety element to be reviewed and updated, upon the next update of a local hazard mitigation plan (LHMP) after January 1, 2022, to identify evacuation routes and their capacity, safety, and viability under a range of emergency scenarios.2
• AB 1409 (2021) adds evacuation locations to Section 65302.15 of the California Government Code and requires the safety element to be reviewed and updated to identify evacuation locations.

Accordingly, this report considers:
• Identification of Evacuation Routes: The study identifies all evacuation routes and assesses their capacity, safety, and viability under various emergency scenarios. • Capacity Assessment: The study evaluates the capacity of evacuation routes to handle the expected volume of traffic and evacuees during an emergency. • Safety and Viability: The study considers the safety and viability of the identified routes and centers for use during emergencies.
• Mapping Evacuation Gateways: This involves mapping evacuation centers and shelters and/or shortest path to evacuation gateways to ensure they are accessible and adequately equipped.
• Policy Development: Policies to prioritize evacuation routes and centers based on the findings.
• Integration with Local Hazard Mitigation Plans (LHMP): Updates to the Health and Safety Element should be coordinated with the existing LHMP or other relevant emergency planning documents to ensure consistency and alignment.

2.2 Emergency Planning in Cupertino
This City of Cupertino maintains and publishes several emergency planning documents:3 The Emergency Operations Plan (2019)4 provides guidance on the City's response to the most likely and demanding emergency conditions. It outlines the incident management structure, legal compliance, whole community engagement, continuity of government, and other critical components.
2 The City of Cupertino participated in the Santa Clara County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan which was approved by FEMA in February 2024 which triggered compliance with this requirement. 3 https://www.cupertino.gov/files/assets/city/v/1/your-city/documents 4 https://www.cupertino.gov/files/assets/city/v/1/your-city/documents/cupertino-emergency-operations-plan.pdf.

Accessed August 28, 2025.
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The Health and Safety Element (last amended in 2005, with minor edits in 2015) 5 , a Chapter in
the General Plan, describes local hazards and mitigation measures. It identifies that people in the foothills and mountains of Cupertino’s planning area, covering approximately 16 square miles, are most at risk from fire. The City is currently updating the Health and Safety Element. The Health and Safety Element Update lists the following policies to prepare for and respond to disasters and emergencies:
• Policy HS-2.1: Building And Fire Code Compliance
• Policy HS-2.2: Promote Emergency Preparedness
• Policy HS-2.3: Emergency Operations And Training
• Policy HS-2.4: Volunteer Groups
• Policy HS-2.5: Emergency Public Information
• Policy HS-2.6: Fire Prevention And Emergency Preparedness • Policy HS-2.7: Hazard Preparedness
• Policy HS-2.8: Educational And Outreach Materials
• Policy HS-2.9: Poor Air Quality Event Assistance
• Policy HS-2.10: Disaster Medical Response
• Policy HS-2.11: Evacuation Routes
• Policy HS-2.12: Evacuation Awareness
• Policy HS-2.13: Ingress And Egress
• Policy HS-2.14: Secondary Ingress And Egress.
• Policy HS-2.15: Emergency Access
The City’s Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) (February 21, 2024) 6 is an annex to the Santa
Clara County Multijurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan. It assesses potential hazard risks as well as mitigation measures to prevent loss of life, injury, and property damage. It identifies earthquake, severe weather, flood, landslide, and wildfire as hazards of greatest concern. In the LHMP, Table 17 lists the actions that comprise the City’s hazard mitigation action plan.

The Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) (2023)
7 describes projects from the Santa
Clara County CWPP (2023). These plans are required to be updated every five years to remain eligible for funding implementation projects through the Fire Safe Councils and CAL FIRE. 5 https://www.cupertino.gov/files/assets/city/v/1/your-city/documents/gp-chap-06-health.pdf. Accessed August 28, 2025.
6 https://oem.santaclaracounty.gov/multi-jurisdictional-hazard-mitigation-plan-mjhmp. Accessed October 24, 2025.
7 https://www.sccfd.org/santa-clara-county-community-wildfire-protection-plan/. Accessed October 24, 2025. 188
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3. Approach and Methods
This analysis focuses on the transportation system capacity during a wildfire evacuation event. The following flow chart illustrates the steps in the process.

3.1 Identify the Evacuation Scenarios
Fehr & Peers, City of Cupertino staff, the Santa Clara County Fire Department, and the Santa Clara County Sherriff’s Office worked together to identify the hazard of highest concern for this assessment (wildfires in the Fire Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ)) and three evacuation scenarios. In developing the evacuation scenarios, all hazards identified in Section 1.3 were considered. The defined evacuation scenarios represent hazards with the greatest potential to generate the largest number of vehicles requiring evacuation. Consideration was given to wildfire vulnerability, as well as access limitations that may occur due to compounding hazards such as a landslide or flood damage along an evacuation route.

Table 1 defines the evacuation scenarios. Scenarios A to C reflect Existing Conditions in year 2025.

This assessment conducted baseline analysis using existing socioeconomic conditions to establish current evacuation performance and identify potential constraints under present-day conditions. This provides a foundation for evaluating how future growth could affect evacuation route capacities.

When considering cumulative conditions with projected buildout, increased evacuation population would likely exacerbate bottlenecks identified in the baseline analysis.

These scenarios assume no evacuation population will “shelter in place” within the hazard area or evacuation area. Instead, these scenarios evaluate evacuation from the evacuation area using the shortest path.
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• Scenario A was assessed quantitatively. It assumes a wildfire-triggered evacuation within the evacuation area at 2 PM on a school day. All roadways are assumed to be accessible to evacuees, which include residents, employees, students, and visitors. • Scenario B was assessed quantitatively. It assumes a wildfire-triggered evacuation following an earthquake at 6 AM, during a time when schools are not in session. McClellan Road at Club House Lane near the Deep Cliff Golf Course is assumed to be closed. Evacuees include residents and a small portion of employees.
• Scenario C was assessed qualitatively. It is based on Scenario A by assuming the same evacuation demand, but with additional roadway closures on Stevens Creek Boulevard at SR85 and SR-85 Southbound Ramps at Stevens Creek Boulevard because of an earthquake causing the wildfire.

Table 1: Scenario Definitions
Scenario A
(Quantitative)
Scenario B
(Quantitative)
Scenario C
(Qualitative)
Hazard Type(s) Wildfire Wildfire after
Earthquake
Wildfire after
Earthquake
Scale of Emergency Evacuation Area1 Evacuation Area1 Evacuation Area1 Time of Event Fall 2 PM
(School in session)
Summer 6 AM
(School not in session)
Fall 2 PM
(School in session)
Road Closures
due to Hazard All roadways open
McClellan Road at Club
House Lane near the
Deep Cliff Golf Course
due to earthquake
• Stevens Creek
Boulevard at SR85
• SR-85 Southbound
Ramps at Stevens
Creek Boulevard
Type of Evacuees
Residents, employees,
students, visitors
Residents, small
portion of employees
Residents, employees,
students, visitors
Notes:

1. The boundary of evacuation area is defined as the Genasys Protect zones within the fire hazard severity zone (FHSZ) lands in the western portions of the City and homes within the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains, shown in Figure 1.

Source: Fehr & Peers, 2025.
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Fire Hazard Severity Zones
FIGURE 1

Figure S-9 Fire Hazard Severity Zones
Data Source: Health and Safety Element Background Report, July 23, 2025 191
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3.2 Define the Evacuation Area
According to the Cupertino Municipal Code Chapter 16.74.020, “Wildland‐Urban Interface (WUI) or Wildland‐Urban Interface Fire Area (WUIFA) mean a geographical area identified by the state as a Fire Hazard Severity Zone in accordance with the Public Resources Code Sections 4201 through 4204 and Government Code Sections 51175 through 51189, or other areas designated by the enforcing agency to be at a significant risk from wildfires”. The evacuation area is defined as the Genasys Protect8 zones within the WUI, or the moderate to very high FHSZ in Cupertino. Figure 1 illustrates the fire hazard severity zones included in the Health and Safety Element Background Report.

The safe area is established at SR-85 and I-280 and serves as the evacuation gateway, representing the boundary beyond which evacuees are considered to have exited the evacuation area, and are therefore no longer at immediate risk.

3.3 Define Evacuation Routes
This analysis uses the evacuation routes provided by the City of Cupertino in August 2025, developed as part of the City’s ongoing effort to update its Health and Safety Element. The evacuation routes for the City of Cupertino and surrounding unincorporated areas are used to transport evacuees using their own vehicle and transit dependent evacuees to temporary shelter. This analysis assumes that routes that provide the most direct path to evacuate the community with the least exposure to risk will be used by evacuees. The major evacuation routes consider the location of critical facilities (i.e., safety and security, health and medical, and communications) as well as residential, employment, school, and recreational uses. Figure 2 shows the evacuation routes provided by the City.

3.4 Estimate Vehicle Trips
The number of evacuation vehicle trips assigned to the roadway network are a combination of trips generated by residential households, employee trips, student trips, and visitor trips at the time of the evacuation. These trips include those generated by uses in the City as well as surrounding unincorporated areas including PG&E Trailhead, McClellan Ranch Preserve, Stevens Creek County Park, and Fremont Older Open Space Preserve.

Trips generated by residential households were informed by the most recent available data from the US Census Bureau and the California Department of Finance. This includes data on population, the number of households, persons per household, and vehicles per household. This data was crossreferenced with data in the Genasys Protect platform’s designated evacuation zones. The household data was then used to estimate evacuation vehicle trips based on the number of households, persons per household, auto-ownership information, population, and other factors that could affect the number of vehicles per household used during an evacuation event. 8 Genasys Protect is an evacuation management tool that helps communities and first responders plan, communicate, and conduct evacuations. It provides communications, situational awareness, and cross-agency coordination capabilities for emergency management. The platform delivers integrated hardware and software for proactive preparedness and multi-channel communication. 192
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Table 2 describes data sources and equations used to estimate vehicle evacuation demand for residents, employees, students, and visitors. Data sources reviewed for this assessment include the 2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year Estimates, Genasys Protect, Santa Clara Countywide VMT Estimation Tool, and the adopted Housing Element. These sources provide population, household, and employment estimates that are within a similar range. 193
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Evacuation Routes
FIGURE 2
280
280
280
85 85
yW ellivelleB
S Tantau Ave
evA thgirW
S Stelling Rd
Regnart Rd
evA hcniF
Prospect Rd
Saratoga Ave
dvlB aznA eD N
Doyle Rd
dR bbuB
S Blaney Ave
Moorpark Ave
Cox Ave
McClellan Rd
dR otiuQ
dvlB aznA eD S
S Mary Ave
evA relliM
N Tantau Ave
dvlB llihtooF S
Pruneridge Ave
W Homestead Rd E Homestead Rd
Johnson Ave
N Stelling Rd Hollenbeck Ave
dR efloW S
dR elavynnuS-agotaraS S
Vallco Pkwy
Rainbow Dr
Bollinger Rd
Stevens Creek Blvd
W Campbell Ave
dvlB llihtooF N
N Blaney Ave
dR efloW
Stevens Canyon Rd
Phil Ln
evA liauQ
Mount Eden Rd
Basemap
FIGURE 2
0 1 2
Miles
Cupertino City Boundary Evacuation Routes Cupertino City Boundary Evacuation Routes Evacuation Route (outside of City Boundary)
Evacuation Route (in Cupertino)
Fire H azard Severity Zones
FIGURE 1
Cupertino City Boundary Evacuation Routes
Evacuation Routes (in Cupertino)
Evacuation Routes (outside of City Boundary)
Data Source: Draft Health and Safety Element, 2025
Rodrigues Ave
Torre Ave
85 85
280
280
280
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Table 2: Vehicle Demand Calculations in the Evacuation Area Evacuation Demand Variable Data Source Equation

1. Employment Santa Clara Countywide
VMT Estimation Tool Data source provided value.

2. Residential Population Genasys Protect* Data source provided value.

3. Household Genasys Protect* Population / Household size

4. Household Vehicle
Ownership Distribution Census Tract Number of households with 0, 1, 2, or 3+ vehicles / Total household

5. Household Vehicle
Ownership Steps 4 & 5 Household vehicle ownership distribution * Household

6. Student Education Data
Partnership Data source provided value1

7. Visitor Parking Spaces Available
from Google Maps Portion of parking spaces occupied2

8. Estimated Vehicle
Evacuation Demand Steps 1 & 6
Residents:
1 * zero-vehicle household +
1 * one-vehicle household +
2 * two-vehicle household +

2.5 * three-or-more vehicle household
Employees:

0.99 * employment
Students:
1 * drive-alone student +

0.5 * carpooling student +
1 * student picked up/dropped off
Visitors:

0.5 * visitor
Notes: Raw data is presented in Appendix A.

1. Educational Data Partnership shows school enrollment data for the following schools considered in the evacuation area: Abraham Lincoln Elementary School, Tessellations Elementary School, John F Kennedy Middle School, and Monta Vista High School.

2. Visitor presence considered at recreational attractions located within the evacuation area: PG&E Trailhead (50% of the Rancho San Antonio County Park parking spaces), Deep Cliff Golf Course (20% of the Linda Vista Park parking spaces), Rim Trail (45% of the Stevens Creek County Park Chestnut and Villa Maria parking lots), and Parker Ranch Trailhead (40% of the Fremont Older Open Space Preserve Prospect and Saratoga Country Club parking spaces).

Source: 2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year Estimates; Genasys Protect; Santa Clara Countywide VMT Estimation Tool; Educational Data Partnership; and Google Maps, Fehr & Peers, 2025.

3.5 Assign Vehicle Trips
The total resident, employee, student, and visitor evacuation trips are disaggregated into 14 different geographically designated evacuation zones in the Genasys Protect platform. Trips are routed from each zone to the nearest evacuation route. Once on a major evacuation route, trips are assigned to the most efficient path toward either SR-85 or I-280. The city limit is used as the evacuation 195
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gateways because it represents the boundary beyond which evacuees are considered to have exited the hazard area and the evacuation area, and are therefore no longer at immediate risk.

3.6 Evacuation Route Assessment
An evacuation route assessment can be completed in a variety of ways to determine the capacity and viability of key evacuation routes. An assessment, like this project, can use volume to capacity ratios under typical non-congested conditions. Under more constrained and congested conditions, higher effort studies may involve modeled analysis of evacuation scenarios using dynamic traffic assignment to simulate traffic flow and evacuation times when street and freeway networks are at capacity. This evacuation route capacity divides the vehicle demand volumes by the roadway evacuation capacity to estimate the volume to capacity ratio during an evacuation event. Furthermore, the evacuation route assessment measures the distance evacuees have to travel to reach evacuation gateways.

3.6.1 Assessing Evacuation Route Capacity
This analysis uses planning level roadway capacities based on the roadway cross section (e.g., two, four, or six travel lanes) with adjustments for the hilly nature of the evacuation routes in the evacuation area and anticipated lower visibility conditions present during an evacuation. These planning level roadway capacities are consistent with the level of planning for this AB 747/AB 1409 evacuation capacity analysis where the desired outcome is a list of policies and programs to integrate into the Health and Safety Element. Table 3 lists the peak one-hour planning capacity for each roadway type. These evacuation capacities do not incorporate contraflow, as the opposing direction is reserved for emergency responders.

Table 3: Planning Level Roadway Capacity per Hour per Lane Roadway Type Planning Capacity1
(Typical Day)
Planning Capacity
(Low Visibility)
Freeway 2,020 1,780
Divided Arterial 940 830
Undivided Arterial 890 780
Collector/Local 650 570
Notes:

1. Roadway planning capacity from Highway Capacity Manual (2000).

Source: Highway Capacity Manual, 2000; Fehr & Peers, 2025.

Additionally, during a fire or other emergency event, roadways typically operate at lower capacities due to changes in driver behavior and the presence of hazards such as low visibility due to smoke.

Baseline capacities for all evacuation roadways were reduced by 12 percent to account for these hazards, based on recommended capacity reductions due to low visibility (due to weather) provided by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Road Weather Management Program.9 9 How weather events impact roadways?
https://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/weather/q1_roadimpact.htm#:~:text=Speed%20variance%20can%20fall%20by,12 %20percent%20in%20low%20visibility, accessed April 2025. 196
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Table 4 presents the roadway types and total evacuation route capacity at designated screenlines and a few additional roadway segments. A screenline is an imaginary line on a map to evaluate the evacuation route capacity (see Figure 3 and Figure 4). This analysis uses a screenline east of the evacuation area, and another at SR-85 and I-280, which represent the defined evacuation gateways.

Table 4: Evacuation Route Capacity
Roadway Name Roadway
Type1
Outbound
Lanes
Evacuation
Route
Capacity
Adjusted
Evacuation
Route
Capacity2

1. East of the Evacuation Area Screenline
Cristo Rey Drive
west of Foothills Boulevard Collector 1 650 570
Foothill Boulevard
north of Alpine Drive Local 1 650 570
Stevens Creek Boulevard
east of Cupertino Road Collector 1 650 570
McClellan Road
east of Imperial Avenue Collector 1 650 570
Bubb Road
north of Hyannisport Drive Local 1 650 570
Rainbow Drive
west of Seven Springs Lane
Local 1 650 570
Prospect Road
east of Parker Ranch Trailhead Local 1 650 570

2. West of SR 85 Screenline
Foothill Boulevard
south of I-280
Undivided
Arterial 2 1,780 1,560
Stevens Creek Boulevard
west of SR-85
Undivided
Arterial 2 1,780 1,560
Bubb Road
south of Stevens Creek Boulevard Collector 1 650 570
McClellan Road
east of Bubb Road Collector 1 650 570
Stelling Road
north of Orion Lane Collector 1 650 570
South De Anza Boulevard
north of SR-85
Divided
Arterial 3 2,820 2,490
Prospect Road
east of S De Anza Boulevard Collector 2 1,300 1,140
Notes:

1. Roadway type determined by City of Cupertino Circulation Element (2025).

2. Vehicles per hour. Rounded to nearest 10.

Source: Circulation Element, 2025; Fehr & Peers, 2025.
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3.6.2 Distance to Evacuation Gateway
For this analysis, evacuation population groups are considered to be evacuated when they have either accessed gateways to the east of SR-85 or north of I-280. To assist with identifying potentially vulnerable communities during an evacuation event it is also helpful to identify City neighborhoods that need to travel the furthest and thus are potentially the most exposed in an evacuation event. This analysis measures the distances from each point along the roadway network to designated evacuation gateways. Up to two best routes from each point to the gateways are included in this assessment.
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4. Evacuation Route Assessment
This chapter evaluates the evacuation route capacity during a wildfire evacuation event for the evacuation area and routes identified in Chapter 3. This section also analyzes the distances from each point along the roadway network to designated evacuation gateways to help identify City neighborhoods that need to travel the furthest and thus are potentially the most exposed in an evacuation event.

4.1 Estimate Evacuation Vehicle Trips
Based on the identified scenarios, the areas requiring evacuation include the FHSZ since these areas are most vulnerable to wildfire hazards. The trips assigned to the transportation system are estimated based on household and employer demographics along with student and visitor population and assist with estimating evacuation demand during an evacuation event.

Table 5 lists the composition of evacuees for each quantitative scenario. Note that Scenario C is a qualitative assessment, which builds on Scenario A and, therefore, has the same evacuation demand as Scenario A.

Table 5: Composition of Evacuees by Scenario
Type of Evacuees Scenario A
(Quantitative)
Scenario B
(Quantitative)
Scenario C
(Qualitative)
Residents 46% 100% 46%
Employees 100% 2% 100%
Students 100% 0% 100%
Visitors 100% 0% 100%
Source: Fehr & Peers, 2025.

4.1.1 Resident and Employee Population
A worst-case condition was estimated where all residents, and retail and restaurant (estimated to be half of all employees in the area) in the evacuation area would need to be evacuated. The number of residents, anticipated vehicle ownership per household, employees, students in schools, and visitors in the evacuation area were used to estimate the number of evacuee vehicles. Because the raw data for households, population, and employment cover geographic areas that differ from the evacuation area, the data were adjusted to estimate land use and evacuation demand. Table A-1 to Table A-3 provide raw socioeconomic data.

Table 6 to Table 10 present the resident, employee, student, and visitor land uses and estimated evacuation demand in the evacuation area. As shown in Table 6, approximately one percent of households does not have access to a vehicle and would potentially confront mobility constraints during an evacuation event.

This assessment uses zero-vehicle households as a proxy to provide an estimate of persons with mobility constraints that may need evacuation assistance. These zero-vehicle households would 199
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require outside assistance. Although outside the scope of this assessment, the City may want to consider a program that ensures a more accurate accounting of households needing assistance and programs to facilitate their evacuation. This estimate also assumes employment centers would provide evacuation assistance to employees without access to a vehicle. Additionally, it was assumed that some households with more than two vehicles likely would not be able to utilize all of their vehicles during an evacuation event (e.g., homes with three or more vehicles but with only two licensed drivers).

Table 6: Resident Population and Evacuation Demand Vehicle Trips of the Evacuation Area Population1 Households2
Household Vehicle
Ownership2 Estimated Evacuation Demand3,4,5
0 1 2 3+ Scenario A Scenario B Scenario C
12,636 4,355
48 604 2,400 1,303
4,050 8,710 4,050
1% 14% 55% 30%
Notes:

1. The estimated population is obtained from Genasys Protect data provided by the City staff on July 25, 2025.

2. The estimated number of households and household vehicle ownership is derived from 2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates and adjusted according to the estimated population.

3. Assumption of number of vehicles that will evacuate: zero-vehicle household: 1 vehicle; one-vehicle household: 1 vehicle; two-vehicle household: 2 vehicles; three-or-more vehicle household: 2.5 vehicles.

4. Assume that daytime population from Genasys Protect consists of residents, employees, students, and visitors. Calculated as (daytime population - employees - students - visitors) / residents * 100%, The residents present in the evacuation area were estimated to be 46% and 100% of the population for Scenarios A and B respectively.

5. It should be noted that this information does not constitute a specific analysis of households with mobility challenges as it does not specifically account for people who have mobility impairments that preclude them from using a vehicle; it also does not specifically account for households that own one or more vehicles, but where not all members of the household may necessarily have access to them at all times (for example, a household with one vehicle which a household member drives to work, leaving other members of the household at home with no vehicle available).

Source: 2023 ACS 5-Year Estimates; Genasys Protect; Santa Clara Countywide VMT Estimation Tool; Fehr & Peers, 2025.

Table 7: Employee Population and Evacuation Demand Vehicle Trips of the Evacuation Area
Employment (A)1
Estimated Evacuation Demand2
Scenario A Scenario B Scenario C
556 550 10 550
Notes:

1. The estimated employment is obtained from the Santa Clara Countywide VMT Evaluation Tool, using 2025 as the baseline year.

2. Assumes that all the employees will evacuate with 0.99 vehicles per employee (one percent of evacuation area households are zero-vehicle households).

Source: Fehr & Peers, 2025.

4.1.2 Student Population
Within the designated evacuation area, several schools serve a substantial student population that would require timely evacuation in the event of an emergency at working hours. Schools located 200
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within the evacuation area include Abraham Lincoln Elementary School, Tessellations Elementary School, John F. Kennedy Middle School, and Monta Vista High School. Table 8 presents the estimated number of student evacuation trips during Scenario A. Table A-4 and Table A-5 show the school enrollment data and estimated student evacuation trips, categorized by mode of travel, including pick-up/drop-off by parents, carpooling, and individual student drivers.

Table 8: Student Population and Evacuation Demand Vehicle Trips of the Evacuation Area School Enrollment
Estimated Evacuation Demand Vehicle Trips
Scenario A Scenario B Scenario C
3,560 3,120 0 3,120
Source: Fehr & Peers, 2025.

4.1.3 Visitor Population
Table 9 presents the estimated number of visitor trips generated by recreational land uses that would require evacuation during an emergency. Additional details on how these visitor trip estimates were developed can be found in Table A-6.

Table 9: Visitor Land Use and Evacuation Demand of the Evacuation Area Visitors
Estimated Evacuation Demand Vehicle Trips
Scenario A Scenario B Scenario C
355 180 0 180
Source: Fehr & Peers, 2025.

4.1.4 Total Estimated Evacuation Demand
Considering the estimated trips generated in the evacuation area from all employees, residents, students and visitors, the total number of estimated trips during an evacuation event can be estimated. The total evacuation demand is 7,900 and 8,720 during Scenario A and Scenario B respectively, as shown in Table 10.

Table 10: Total Estimated Evacuation Demand Vehicle Trips for the Evacuation Area Type of Evacuees Scenario A Scenario B Scenario C
Residents 4,050 8,710 4,050
Employees 550 10 550
Students 3,120 - 3,120
Visitors 180 - 180
Total 7,900 8,720 7,900
Source: Fehr & Peers, 2025.
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Figure 3 shows the distribution of the evacuation demand across two screenlines. These screenlines represent the edge of the hazard area (screenline 1) and the estimated evacuation edge (screenline 2).

4.2 Evaluating Evacuation Route Capacity

4.2.1 Scenario A (Quantitative Analysis)
The total estimated evacuation demand was distributed across the roadway network in proportion to the combined resident, employee, student, and visitor population data for each Genasys Protect zone10 within the evacuation area. Detailed percent trips assigned for each roadway can be found in Table B-1. The distance to evacuation gateways map (see Figure 5) was used to identify primary routes likely to be used by evacuees.

Traffic volume data for the roadway segments on the evacuation area were collected in July 2025.

These counts, combined with estimated demand, were used to calculate the total evacuation vehicle demand. StreetLight data from the same period in 2024 were collected and compared with data from October 2024 to evaluate the impact of school sessions versus non-school periods. For Scenario A, representing a typical Fall weekday at 2 PM, a factor of 1.2 was applied to account for the increased traffic associated with schools being in session.

Evacuation route capacity was assessed by dividing vehicle demand volumes by roadway evacuation capacity to calculate the volume-to-capacity (V/C) ratio. As shown in Table 11, the results of the evacuation capacity assessment indicate that all evacuation routes have V/C ratios greater than 1 near the evacuation area except for Prospect Road. This indicates that these roads would require more than one hour to accommodate the evacuation demand from the hillside, making them bottlenecks during an evacuation.

Foothill Boulevard, Stevens Creek Boulevard and McClellan Road are the most critical bottlenecks with V/C ratio greater than 2. Prospect Road and Stelling Road have V/C ratios of 1, suggesting they are at capacity and should be prioritized for evacuation demand and supply strategies.

It is also important to note that emergency scenarios are often unpredictable (as well as driver behavior during the evacuation time period) and it is anticipated that evacuees would vacate at a rate that more closely resembles a bell curve from the time the evacuation order is issued. These are conditions which would affect the total estimated evacuation time in our assessment and are beyond the scope and budget of our assessment. There is also general unpredictability in operational issues, such as power issues that would trigger traffic signals to operate in “red flash mode” in which traffic would need to proceed through intersections in an all-way stop configuration. 10 A Genasys Protect zone is a predefined geographic area used during emergencies to streamline response efforts, reduce confusion, and optimize traffic flow.
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Trip Distribution for Scenario A
FIGURE 3
280
280
280
85 85
yW ellivelleB
S Tantau Ave
evA thgirW
S Stelling Rd
Regnart Rd
evA hcniF
Prospect Rd
Saratoga Ave
dvlB aznA eD N
Doyle Rd
dR bbuB
S Blaney Ave
Moorpark Ave
Cox Ave
McClellan Rd
dR otiuQ
dvlB aznA eD S
S Mary Ave
evA relliM
N Tantau Ave
dvlB llihtooF S
Pruneridge Ave
W Homestead Rd E Homestead Rd
Johnson Ave
N Stelling Rd Hollenbeck Ave
dR efloW S
dR elavynnuS-agotaraS S
Vallco Pkwy
Rainbow Dr
Bollinger Rd
Stevens Creek Blvd
W Campbell Ave
dvlB llihtooF N
N Blaney Ave
dR efloW
Stevens Canyon Rd
Phil Ln
evA liauQ
Mount Eden Rd
Basemap
FIGURE 2
0 1 2
Miles
Cupertino City Boundary Evacuation Routes
Data Source: Fehr & Peers
Cupertino City Boundary
Evacuation Routes
West of SR-85 Screenline
East of the WUI Screenline
Trip Distribution | Scenario A
Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Trip Distribution %
SR-85 Trip Distribution %
Rodrigues Ave
Torre Ave
5%
18%
21%
14%
14%
22%
6%
23%
21%
4%
24%
5%
17%
6%
Cupertino City Boundary
Evacuation Routes
Screenline
East of the WUI Screenline
West of SR-85 Screenline
Trip Distribution
Scenario A
SR-85 Trip Distribution %
Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) %
0 1 2
M i l
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Table 11: Evacuation Route Link Capacity Analysis (Scenario A) Evacuation Route Link
Evacuation
Travel
Demand1
Existing
Hourly
Traffic
Total
Evacuation
Demand
Adjusted
Evacuation
Route
Capacity
V/C
Ratio2

1. East of the Evacuation Area Screenline
Cristo Rey Drive
west of Foothills Boulevard 400 239 639 570 1.1
Foothill Boulevard
north of Alpine Drive 1,420 883 2,303 570 4.0
Stevens Creek Boulevard
east of Cupertino Road 1,660 417 2,077 570 3.6
McClellan Road
east of Imperial Avenue 1,110 100 1,210 570 2.1
Bubb Road
north of Hyannisport Drive 1,110 234 1,344 570 2.4
Rainbow Drive
west of Seven Springs Lane
1,740 20 1,760 570 3.1
Prospect Road
east of Parker Ranch Trailhead 470 116 586 570 1.0

2. West of SR 85 Screenline
Foothill Boulevard
south of I-280 1,820 883 2,703 1,560 1.7
Stevens Creek Boulevard
west of SR-85 1,660 719 2,379 1,560 1.5
Bubb Road
south of Stevens Creek Boulevard 320 550 870 570 1.5
McClellan Road
east of Bubb Road 1,900 506 2,406 570 4.2
Stelling Road
north of Orion Lane 400 196 596 570 1.0
South De Anza Boulevard
north of SR-85 1,340 1,578 2,918 2,490 1.2
Prospect Road
east of S De Anza Boulevard 470 912 1,382 1,140 1.2
Note: Bolded text indicates roadways over one-hour evacuation capacity.

1. Rounded to nearest 10.

2. Total evacuation demand divided by adjusted outbound capacity.

Source: Fehr & Peers, 2025.

4.2.2 Scenario B (Quantitative Analysis)
Scenario B assumes a wildfire-triggered evacuation following an earthquake at 6 AM, during a time when schools are not in session. The total estimated evacuation demand was distributed across the 204
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roadway network in proportion to the combined population, and employment population data for each Genasys Protect zone11 within the evacuation area. Detailed percent trips assigned for each roadway can be found in Table B-2. The distance to evacuation gateways map (see Figure 5) was used to identify primary routes likely to be used by evacuees.

The results of the evacuation capacity assessment in Table 11 indicate that all the roadways near the evacuation area except for Cristo Rey Drive, McClellan Road and Prospect Road have V/C ratios greater than 2. This indicates that these roads would require more than one hour to accommodate the evacuation demand from the evacuation area, making them bottlenecks during an evacuation.

This scenario is evaluated with a road closure on McClellan Road at Club House Lane near the Deep Cliff Golf Course, with schools not in session. When this segment of McClellan Road is closed, evacuees located east of Club House Lane can only travel eastbound along McClellan Road, while those west of the closure can only travel westbound. In other words, evacuees cannot cross the closed segment, which results in separate evacuation routes for areas on either side of the closure.

Under these conditions, evacuation demand on McClellan Road would decrease, with some trips shifted to Foothill Boulevard and Stevens Creek Boulevard. As a result, McClellan Road would experience a lower V/C ratio.

Under Scenario B, evacuation demand is higher than under Scenario A, as summarized in Table 10.

However, because existing hourly traffic is lower at 6 AM under Scenario B, the total evacuation demand (i.e., the sum of evacuation travel demand and existing hourly traffic) on some roadways is lower under Scenario B than under Scenario A. A morning evacuation (6:00 AM) reflects conditions when most residents are at home, resulting in higher residential evacuation demand but relatively low existing traffic volumes on the roadways. In contrast, an afternoon evacuation (2:00 PM) occurs when many residents are at work or school, leading to lower residential evacuation demand but higher levels of existing traffic associated with general daytime travel activity. Scenario B has higher evacuation travel demand but lower existing traffic, resulting in a lower total evacuation demand on some roadways than Scenario A. As a result, these roadways show lower V/C ratios under Scenario B despite the higher evacuation travel demand.
11 A Genasys Protect zone is a predefined geographic area used during emergencies to streamline response efforts, reduce confusion, and optimize traffic flow.
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Trip Distribution for Scenario B
FIGURE 4
280
280
280
85 85
yW ellivelleB
S Tantau Ave
evA thgirW
S Stelling Rd
Regnart Rd
evA hcniF
Prospect Rd
Saratoga Ave
dvlB aznA eD N
Doyle Rd
dR bbuB
S Blaney Ave
Moorpark Ave
Cox Ave
McClellan Rd
dR otiuQ
dvlB aznA eD S
S Mary Ave
evA relliM
N Tantau Ave
dvlB llihtooF S
Pruneridge Ave
W Homestead Rd E Homestead Rd
Johnson Ave
N Stelling Rd Hollenbeck Ave
dR efloW S
dR elavynnuS-agotaraS S
Vallco Pkwy
Rainbow Dr
Bollinger Rd
Stevens Creek Blvd
W Campbell Ave
dvlB llihtooF N
N Blaney Ave
dR efloW
Stevens Canyon Rd
Phil Ln
evA liauQ
Mount Eden Rd
Basemap
FIGURE 2
0 1 2
Miles
Cupertino City Boundary Evacuation Routes
Data Source: Fehr & Peers
Cupertino City Boundary
Evacuation Routes
West of SR-85 Screenline
East of the WUI Screenline
Trip Distribution | Scenario B
Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Trip Distribution %
SR-85 Trip Distribution %
Rodrigues Ave
Torre Ave
6%
25%
25%
6%
12%
19%
7%
31%
25%
2%
16%
6%
13%
7%
Cupertino City Boundary
Evacuation Routes
Screenline
East of the WUI Screenline
West of SR-85 Screenline
Trip Distribution
Scenario B
SR-85 Trip Distribution %
Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) %
0 1 2
M i l
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Table 12: Evacuation Route Link Capacity Analysis (Scenario B) Evacuation Route Link
Evacuation
Travel
Demand1
Existing
Hourly
Traffic
Total
Evacuation
Demand
Adjusted
Evacuation
Route
Capacity
V/C
Ratio2

1. East of the Evacuation Area Screenline
Cristo Rey Drive
west of Foothills Boulevard 520 31 551 570 1.0
Foothill Boulevard
north of Alpine Drive 2,180 283 2,463 570 4.3
Stevens Creek Boulevard
east of Cupertino Road 2,180 31 2,211 570 3.9
McClellan Road
east of Imperial Avenue 520 13 533 570 0.9
Bubb Road
north of Hyannisport Drive 1,050 64 1,114 570 2.0
Rainbow Drive
west of Seven Springs Lane
1,660 85 1,745 570 3.1
Prospect Road
east of Parker Ranch Trailhead 610 23 633 570 1.1

2. West of SR 85 Screenline
Foothill Boulevard
south of I-280 2,700 283 2,983 1,560 1.9
Stevens Creek Boulevard
west of SR-85 2,180 142 2,322 1,560 1.5
Bubb Road
south of Stevens Creek Boulevard 170 86 256 570 0.4
McClellan Road
east of Bubb Road 1,400 31 1,431 570 2.5
Stelling Road
north of Orion Lane 520 28 548 570 1.0
South De Anza Boulevard
north of SR-85 1,130 362 1,492 2,490 0.6
Prospect Road
east of S De Anza Boulevard 610 144 754 1,140 0.7
Note: Bolded text indicates roadways over one-hour evacuation capacity.

1. Rounded to nearest 10.

2. Total evacuation demand divided by adjusted outbound capacity.

Source: Fehr & Peers, 2025.
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4.2.3 Scenario C (Qualitative Analysis)
Scenario C assumes a wildfire-triggered evacuation following an earthquake at 2 PM on a school day.

Scenario C demonstrates the worst-case evacuation condition in which an earthquake initiates wildfire. Scenario C builds on Scenario A by assuming the same evacuation demand, but with additional roadway closures at the following roadways because of an earthquake causing wildfire:
• Stevens Creek Boulevard at SR-85
• SR-85 Southbound Ramps at Stevens Creek Boulevard
Due to the results of the baseline scenario, no further quantification was conducted for Scenario C.

However, in addition to the capacity constraints identified in Scenario A, the following evacuation route capacity issues have been noted:
• The closure on Stevens Creek Boulevard and SR-85 Southbound Ramps would divert 2,378 evacuees assigned to Stevens Creek Boulevard (refer to Table 11) to the adjacent routes. The updated trip distribution is shown in Table B-3. These alternative routes include Foothill Boulevard, McClellan Road, and De Anza Boulevard. Since these routes are already bottlenecks in Scenario A, the added volume would result in further congestion and increase the severity of the bottleneck causing more delay and queuing.
• Stevens Creek Boulevard also serves the evacuees from the entire corridor east and west of the FHSZ. A portion of the rerouted evacuation demand from Stevens Creek Boulevard is expected to shift towards Rainbow Drive and to Stelling Road or De Anza Boulevard, which serve as one of the key evacuation corridors to SR-85.
• Foothill Boulevard is already identified as a critical bottleneck with a V/C ratio exceeding 4 in both the scenarios. The rerouted evacuation demand due to the roadway closures would further exacerbate congestion and significantly affect evacuation efficiency.

4.3 Analyzing Distance to Evacuation Gateways
Distance to evacuation gateways is mapped in Figure 5. The map illustrates the primary evacuation routes likely to be used by evacuees. The distance for all the evacuation routes ranges from 0.9 to 2.5 miles with most falling between 1.5 to 2 miles. From each start point, there is one or two best routes to reach the gateways with similar distances.

Routes A, B, E, and F (via Cristo Rey Drive, Stevens Creek Boulevard, Rainbow Drive, and Prospect Road, respectively) are within two miles of the nearest evacuation gateways. According to Table 11 and Table 12, Cristo Rey Drive and Prospect Road are not expected to experience capacity constraints under Scenarios A and B. As a result, evacuees using these routes are expected to have relatively short evacuation times.

In contrast, Route D (via Bubb Road) is located 2 miles to the nearest evacuation gateway (Gateway 3), while Route C (via Foothills Boulevard) exceeds 2 miles in distance to the nearest gateway (Gateway 3). Given that Foothills Boulevard is projected to be over capacity (V/C > 4) under Scenarios A and B, and Bubb Road is over capacity (V/C > 2) under both scenarios, evacuees using these routes are likely to encounter significant traffic congestion and longer evacuation times. 208
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Distances to Evacuation Gateways
FIGURE 5
280
280
280
85 85
yW ellivelleB
S Tantau Ave
evA thgirW
S Stelling Rd
Regnart Rd
evA hcniF
Prospect Rd
Saratoga Ave
dvlB aznA eD N
Doyle Rd
dR bbuB
S Blaney Ave
Moorpark Ave
Cox Ave
McClellan Rd
dR otiuQ
dvlB aznA eD S
S Mary Ave
evA relliM
N Tantau Ave
dvlB llihtooF S
Pruneridge Ave
W Homestead Rd E Homestead Rd
Johnson Ave
N Stelling Rd Hollenbeck Ave
dR efloW S
dR elavynnuS-agotaraS S
Vallco Pkwy
Rainbow Dr
Bollinger Rd
Stevens Creek Blvd
W Campbell Ave
dvlB llihtooF N
N Blaney Ave
dR efloW
Stevens Canyon Rd
Phil Ln
evA liauQ
Mount Eden Rd
Basemap
FIGURE 2
0 1 2
Miles
Cupertino City Boundary Cupertino City Boundary
Evacuation Routes
Distance to Evacuation Gateway
0 - 0.5 Miles 0.5 - 1 Miles 1 - 1.5 Miles 1.5 - 2 Miles 2.5 - 3 Miles Gateway
Start
A
B
C
D
E
F
1 2
3 4
5 6

0.9 miles
from Point F
to Gateway 6

1.1 miles
from Point F
to Gateway 5

1.3 miles
from Point B
to Gateway 1

1.4 miles
from Point E
to Gateway 4

1.6 miles
from Point E
to Gateway 5

1.6 miles
from Point B
to Gateway 2

1.9 miles
from Point A
to Gateway 1
2 miles
from Point D
to Gateway 3

2.2 miles
from Point D
to Gateway 4

2.4 miles
from Point C
to Gateway 3

2.5 miles
from Point C
to Gateway 1
Gateway
Start
Distance to Evacuation Gateway
0 - 0.5 Miles 0.5 - 1 Miles 1 - 1.5 Miles 1.5 - 2 Miles 2.5 - 3 Miles 0 1 2
M il
Rodrigues Ave
Torre Ave
Data Source: Fehr & Peers
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5. Recommendations
The City of Cupertino has already implemented several key strategies that support evacuation readiness and enhance emergency response capabilities. These existing measures provide a strong foundation for coordinated and effective action during wildfire or other disaster events:
• Established multi-jurisdictional plans that enable Fire and Sheriff departments to operate seamlessly under a unified command structure. This coordination ensures faster decisionmaking, effective resource deployment, and a cohesive response across different agencies and jurisdictions.
• Traffic signals within the evacuation network are equipped with battery backup systems, allowing them to remain operational during power outages for up to eight hours. This functionality helps maintain orderly traffic flow, reduces confusion at intersections, and supports safer, more efficient evacuations.
• Strong coordination and communication among key agencies including Fire, Sheriff, and Public Works—facilitate real-time updates and operational alignment. These communication protocols enable swift sharing of situational information, ensuring a collaborative response during rapidly evolving emergency situations.

In addition to the recommended policies (Policy HS-2.1 to Policy HS-2.15) included in the Safety Element Update, the following recommendations are listed as potential measures that can enhance the evacuation process through the supply side (increasing evacuation capacity), demand side (managing evacuation volumes), and information side (improving awareness and communication).

These recommendations will be incorporated into future updates of the Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP), and Health and Safety Element Update to ensure consistency and alignment. Some recommendations can be implemented more readily through the EOP. Others may require additional coordination and formal adoption as part of the Safety Element Update or LHMP.

5.1 Supply-Side Strategies
Supply-side strategies aim to temporarily increase evacuation capacity at key bottleneck locations while balancing the everyday safety and function of the roadway system. • Increasing capacity through the use of contraflow lanes or dual purpose shoulder evacuation/protected bike lane widening by changing future roadway design, especially in areas with less accessibility and located on key evacuation routes. These areas are primarily located on I-280, Foothills Boulevard, Stevens Creek Boulevard, Bubb Road, and SR-85 corridors. These routes should consider incorporating design treatments such as painted medians (instead of raised medians) or other treatments that could assist in creating reversible lanes, or a dual-purpose shoulder to facilitate additional capacity in an evacuation event scenario.
• Extending water service into evacuation corridors strengthens firefighting capacity and longterm water investment ensures reliable resources that sustain evacuation operations under emergency conditions.
• Managed traffic control during evacuation, including turn restrictions and route or ramp closures, to maximize outflows from evacuation areas.
• Faster clearing of fire-induced road closures.
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• Plan for street parking management on high hazard days.

5.2 Demand-Side Strategies
• The City of Cupertino can support vehicle volume reduction during an evacuation by encouraging carpooling and use of public transit;
• Encouraging a one car per household evacuation pledge (for households that must have second vehicles, an alternative could involve early off-site placement of a second car when advance wildfire warnings or other hazard requiring evacuation are available); • Identifying shelter locations within the City limits and outside the FHSZ to reduce demand on evacuation routes outside the FHSZ and plan/implement shelter facilities; and

5.3 Information-Side Strategies
The City of Cupertino can further support evacuation through the following measures:
• Enhance community evacuation programs to improve resident, employee, student, and visitor preparedness and familiarity with evacuation routes and processes. • Strengthen coordination of emergency response equipment and resources between neighboring jurisdictions, allowing for shared use based on operational needs rather than ownership.
• Enhance communication protocols between cities and elected officials to support unified decision-making, real-time information sharing, and coordinated emergency response across jurisdictional boundaries.
• Explore and deploy wildfire early detection systems (i.e., wildfire video surveillance cameras, drones, etc.) especially for constrained access parcels. • Use real-time traffic management tools to implement dynamic route guidance and monitoring to guide evacuees away from congested routes and encourage the use of secondary or tertiary routes to distribute traffic more evenly. • Study a phased evacuation process where different groups or areas evacuate at different times to prevent congestion on main evacuation routes. This can be based on factors like proximity to danger, traffic volume, or priority of evacuation. • Study and install vehicle monitoring devices and variable message signs to monitor evacuation programs and provide notification of any changes in evacuation routes or plans due to a change in the wildfire or incidents to motorists along the road.

5.4 Additional Considerations
This evacuation assessment includes trips generated by both employees and residents from the evacuation area and assumes all residents and employees will be evacuated using vehicles. A critical consideration for emergency personnel is to assist individual residents and employees who either do not have access to a vehicle or cannot drive, to ensure that compete evacuation is provided. The EOP includes provisions to coordinate with the VTA, Silicon Valley (SV) Hopper, and emergency services. Further research into strategies for evacuating people who do not have access to a vehicle is recommended. Options for assisting with evacuation in such situations could include, but not be limited to, the following:
• Neighborhood “buddy” program to link people needing assistance with people willing to assist.
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• Partnership with transportation network companies (TNCs) like Uber and Lyft.

For individual students and visitors who do not have access to a vehicle, options for assisting with evacuation in such situations could include, but not be limited to, the following:
• Designated pick-up zones for TNCs or buses to ensure orderly evacuation. • Provide dedicated shuttle, school vans, or charter bus service, if available. 212
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Appendix A:

Socioeconomic Data
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Table A-1: Summary of Socioeconomic Data – Census1
Geographic Area Households Population Employment
Household Vehicle Ownership
0 1 2 3+
Census Tract 5077.01 1,216 4,092 1,526 90 217 515 394
Block Group 1; Census
Tract 5077.01 N/A 878 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
Block Group 2;
Census Tract 5077.01 N/A 1,927 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
Census Tract 5077.02 2,163 6,107 3,310 24 300 1,192 647 Block Group 1;
Census Tract 5077.02 N/A 2,052 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
Block Group 2;
Census Tract 5077.02 N/A 1,704 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
Block Group 3;
Census Tract 5077.02 N/A 2,351 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
Census Tract 5077.04 1,214 3,466 1,453 150 299 457 308
Block Group 1;
Census Tract 5077.04 N/A 1,060 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
Block Group 2;
Census Tract 5077.04 N/A 2,406 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
Census Tract 5077.05 1,385 4,560 1,753 19 255 671 440
Block Group 1;
Census Tract 5077.05 N/A 1,952 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
Block Group 2;
Census Tract 5077.05 N/A 1,373 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
Block Group 3;
Census Tract 5077.05 N/A 1,235 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
Total 5,978 35,613 8,042 283 1,071 2,835 1,789
Notes:

1. Census block group and census tract locations are illustrated in Figure A-1.

Source: 2023 ACS 5-year Estimates; Fehr & Peers, 2025.
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Figure A-1: Census Block Group and Census Tract Locations 215
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Table A-2: Summary of Socioeconomic Data – Genasys Protect1 Geographic Area Total Population Total Daytime
Population Total Households
SCC-005 0 0 0
SCC-006 0 3 0
SCC-008 198 270 82
SCC-010 12 52 2
SCC-011 13 41 4
SCC-020 67 37 21
CUP-007 784 1,057 376
CUP-008 1,294 931 418
CUP-016 10 124 3
CUP-017 3,188 2,523 1,042
CUP-018 1,339 1,245 461
CUP-029 2,841 2,046 953
CUP-032 654 470 248
CUP-033 2,236 1,546 745
Total 12,636 10,345 4,355
Notes:

1. Genasys Protect zone locations are illustrated in Figure A-2.

Source: Genasys Protect; Fehr & Peers, 2025.
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Figure A-2: Genasys Protect Zone Locations (highlighted numbers in study area) 217
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Table A-3: Summary of Socioeconomic Data – Santa Clara County VMT Estimation Tool1 Geographic Area Households Population Employment
TAZ 132 955 2,702 94
TAZ 130 0 0 0
TAZ 127 204 614 14
TAZ 128 231 693 25
TAZ 126 647 2,038 647
TAZ 103 193 530 77
TAZ 133 325 920 66
TAZ 102 278 749 55
TAZ 116 305 910 64
TAZ 115 1 3 1,448
TAZ 129 996 2,995 150
TAZ 105 413 1,240 5
TAZ 136 22 62 135
TAZ 122 328 1,033 0
TAZ 125 238 751 2
TAZ 131 273 822 5
TAZ 1334 661 1,880 55
TAZ 135 640 1,825 31
TAZ 134 677 1,916 7
TAZ 117 582 1,741 1,448
TAZ 123 466 1,472 0
Total 8,435 24,896 4,328
Notes:

1. TAZ locations are illustrated in Figure A-3.

Source: Santa Clara Countywide VMT Estimation Tool; Fehr & Peers, 2025. 218
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Figure A-3: Transportation Analysis Zone (TAZ) Locations (light blue indicates study area) 219
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Table A-4: School Enrollment Data
School Name School Enrollment
Abraham Lincoln Elementary 700
John F Kennedy Middle 930
Tessellations Elementary School 270
Total (non-driving students) 1,9001
Monta Vista High School (can drive) 1,6602
Total Students 3,560
Notes:

1. Elementary and middle school students are assumed to evacuate either by carpooling with another student (20%) or by being picked up/dropped off individually (80%).

2. High school students are assumed to be able to drive and are therefore assigned the following evacuation mode shares: drive alone (20%), carpool (30%), and pick-up/drop-off (50%).

Table A-5: Estimated Student Evacuation Trips
Driving Condition
Percent Estimates
Number of
Students Factor1 Estimated Student Evacuation Trips 1,900 Students (Non- Driving)
1,660
Students
(Can Drive)
Drive Alone 0% 20% 330 1.0 330
Carpool 20% 30% 880 0.5 440
Drop-Off 80% 50% 2,350 1.0 2,350
Total 3,560 3,120
Notes:

1. Drive Alone trips assume one person per vehicle; Carpool trips assume two passengers per vehicle, excluding the driver; and Drop-Off trips assume one passenger per vehicle, with the driver not counted. 220
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Table A-6: Estimated Visitor Evacuation Trips
Recreational Attractions Location Number of Visitors1
PG&E Trailhead East of Rancho San
Antonio County Park 200
Deep Cliff Golf Course North of Linda Vista Park 20
Rim Trail North of Stevens Creek
County Park 100
Parker Ranch Trailhead East of Fremont Older
Open Space Preserve 35
Total Visitors 355
Estimated Visitor Evacuation Trips2180
Notes:

1. The number of visitors is based on the percentage of parking spaces assumed during the study period. (Refer to Table 2 notes for the percentages assumed).

2. Visitors are assumed to carpool (two or more passengers per vehicle). 221
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Appendix B: Trip
Distribution
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Table B-1: Trip Distribution Linked to Genasys Protect Zones (Scenario A) Genasys Protect
Zones1 Population Population Distribution Connected Roadways Evacuation Trip Distribution SCC-0052 0 0% Foothills Boulevard 0%
SCC-006 0 0% Foothills Boulevard 0%
SCC-008 198 1% Foothills Boulevard 1%
SCC-010 12 0% Foothills Boulevard 0%
SCC-011 13 0% Prospect Road 0%
SCC-020 67 0% Prospect Road 0%
CUP-007 784 5% Cristo Rey Drive 5%
CUP-008 1,294 8%
Foothills Boulevard 5%
Stevens Creek
Boulevard 3%
CUP-016 10 0% McClellan Road 0%
CUP-017 3,188 20%
Foothills Boulevard 9%
Stevens Creek
Boulevard 10%
McClellan Road 1%
CUP-008 1,339 8%
Foothills Boulevard 5%
Stevens Creek
Boulevard 3%
CUP-029 2,841 38%
Stevens Creek
Boulevard 4%
McClellan Road 24%
Rainbow Drive 10%
CUP-032 654 4%
McClellan Road 2%
Rainbow Drive 2%
CUP-033 2,236 16%
Stelling Road 5%
Rainbow Drive 5%
Prospect Road 6%
Notes:

1. Genasys Protect zone locations are illustrated in Figure A-2.

2. SCC coded zones are located in Santa Clara County’s FHSZ.

Source: Genasys Protect; Fehr & Peers, 2025.
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Table B-2: Trip Distribution Linked to Genasys Protect Zones (Scenario B) Genasys Protect
Zones1 Population Population Distribution
Connected
Roadways
Evacuation Trip
Distribution
SCC-005 0 0% Foothills
Boulevard 0%
SCC-006 0 0% Foothills
Boulevard 0%
SCC-008 198 2% Foothills
Boulevard 2%
SCC-010 12 0% Foothills
Boulevard 0%
SCC-011 13 0% Prospect Road 0%
SCC-020 67 1% Prospect Road 1%
CUP-007 784 6% Cristo Rey Drive 6%
CUP-008 1,294 10%
Foothills
Boulevard 7%
Stevens Creek
Boulevard 3%
CUP-016 10 0% McClellan Road 0%
CUP-017 3,188 25%
Foothills
Boulevard 10%
Stevens Creek
Boulevard 13%
McClellan Road 2%
CUP-008 1,339 11%
Foothills
Boulevard 8%
Stevens Creek
Boulevard 3%
CUP-029 2,841 22%
Stevens Creek
Boulevard 2%
McClellan Road 15%
Rainbow Drive 5%
CUP-032 654 5%
McClellan Road 3%
Rainbow Drive 2%
CUP-033 2,236 18%
Stelling Road 6%
Rainbow Drive 6%
Prospect Road 6%
Notes:

1. Genasys Protect zone locations are illustrated in Figure A-2.

2. SCC coded zones are located in Santa Clara County’s FHSZ.

Source: Genasys Protect; Fehr & Peers, 2025.
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Table B-3: Trip Distribution Linked to Genasys Protect Zones (Scenario C) Genasys Protect
Zones1 Population Population Distribution Connected Roadways Evacuation Trip Distribution2 SCC-0053 0 0% Foothills Boulevard 0%
SCC-006 0 0% Foothills Boulevard 0%
SCC-008 198 1% Foothills Boulevard 1%
SCC-010 12 0% Foothills Boulevard 0%
SCC-011 13 0% Prospect Road 0%
SCC-020 67 0% Prospect Road 0%
CUP-007 784 5% Cristo Rey Drive 5%
CUP-008 1,294 8%
Foothills Boulevard 8%
Stevens Creek
Boulevard 0%
CUP-016 10 0% McClellan Road 0%
CUP-017 3,188 20%
Foothills Boulevard 15%
Stevens Creek
Boulevard 0%
McClellan Road 5%
CUP-008 1,339 8%
Foothills Boulevard 8%
Stevens Creek
Boulevard 0%
CUP-029 2,841 38%
Stevens Creek
Boulevard 0%
McClellan Road 26%
Rainbow Drive 12%
CUP-032 654 4%
McClellan Road 2%
Rainbow Drive 2%
CUP-033 2,236 16%
Stelling Road 5%
Rainbow Drive 5%
Prospect Road 6%
Notes:

1. Genasys Protect zone locations are illustrated in Figure A-2.

2. For Scenario C, due to road closure at Stevens Creek Boulevard at SR-85, trips assigned to Stevens Creek Boulevard under Scenario A were shifted to alternative roadways.

3. SCC coded zones are located in Santa Clara County’s FHSZ.

Source: Genasys Protect; Fehr & Peers, 2025.
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Did this email go to the Planning Commission email address? Lindsay – Please include in the PC written comms.

Thank you,
Lauren Sapudar
Acting City Clerk
City Manager's Office
[email protected]
(408) 777-1312
From: Kitty Moore <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, March 8, 2026 8:13 PM
To: City Clerk <[email protected]>; [email protected] Subject: Written Communications PC Meeting Cupertino Health and Safety Element Item 2 and Include as Comments to the Draft
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Honorable Chair Kosolcharoen, Vice Chair Scharf, and Commissioners Fung, Lindskog, and Rao,
As a resident of Cupertino, I am writing to share observations regarding the Draft Health and Safety Element. This element, as you know, was supposed to be adopted concurrently with the Housing Element.

To ensure this document provides a "safe harbor" for our community against the loss of local control, I recommend the Commission transition from discretionary goals to objective, non-discretionary standards.

I respectfully suggest the following specific refinements:

1. Wildfire & Evacuation (Objective Safety Standards)
The Commission should consider moving beyond "encouraging" safety to requiring it:

From: Lauren Sapudar
Cc:

To:

Lindsay Nelson
Subject: FW: Written Communications PC Meeting Cupertino Health and Safety Element Item 2 and Include as Comments to the Draft
Sunday, March 8, 2026 8:17:57 PM
Luke Connolly; Michael Woo
Date:

Hi Luke and Michael,
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From: Jean Bedord
To: City of Cupertino Planning Dept.

Subject: Feedback on Health and Safety Element - Evacuations Date: Thursday, May 7, 2026 9:42:24 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

HI,
Overall, this was an excellent document - I didn't realize there were so many plans. The one concern was the evacuation maps. They need to be more user friendly. There are PDF maps for CUP-E001 to CUP-E034, but no labels to identify the areas.https://www.cupertino.gov/evacuation Evacuations continue to be a concern to residents so this area could be expanded.

Warm regards,
Jean Bedord
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From: DerChang Kau
To: City of Cupertino Planning Commission
Subject: Fw: Presentation materials to comment on Agenda #2 planning commission meeting today Date: Monday, March 9, 2026 7:34:37 PM
Attachments: 20260309 - Feedback to PC March 9 2026 meeting.pptx CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

From: DerChang Kau
Sent: Monday, March 9, 2026 7:33:35 PM
To: Cupertino Planning Department <[email protected]> Subject: Fw: Presentation materials to comment on Agenda #2 planning commission meeting today From: DerChang Kau
Sent: Monday, March 9, 2026 2:53:36 PM
To: Cupertino Planning Department <[email protected]> Cc: Alice Lin
Subject: Presentation materials to comment on Agenda #2 planning commission meeting today Dear planning staff,
Please see "20260309 - Feedback to PC March 9 2026 meeting.pptx”, attached.

The presentation slides will be used for oral comment to Agenda #2 of today’s Planning Commission’s meeting.

The presenters are DerChang Kau and Alice Lin.

Thank you
DerChang Kau
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Outdated Inputs
The City’s evacuation analysis is built on pre-rezoning data and cannot support long-range planning.
 Uses 2023 ACS, 2025 Genasys, and 2024 StreetLight data — “Primarily reflects existing households” — not future density  Fails to identify parcels with single ingress/egress as required by California Government Code Section 65302(g)(5)¶
— Evulich Ct. modeled as 4 units, not 51 units allowed under rezoning
 A 2040 General Plan cannot rely on 2023 conditions
The analysis is outdated the moment it is published.
2 https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=GOV&sectionNum=65302.&article=5.&hig hlight=true&keyword=Fire%20Hazard%20Severity%20Zone#:~:text=(5)%20Upon%20the%20next%20revision,revision %20of%20the%20safety%20element. ¶ 232
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Beyond V/C Ratios: A Total Evacuation-to-Safety Framework V/C ratios hide the true danger.

Cupertino needs a Total Evacuation-to-Safety model.
 V/C > 1 means oversaturation — “the system fails”
 Current study uses planning-level capacities from year 2000  Missing adjustments:
— Spatial (density, terrain, visibility), Temporal (school pickup, curbside parking), Operational (signal outages, red-flash mode)
 Real evacuation requires modeling:
— Queuing delays, Merging delays, Human behavior, Departure lag Residents need to know time to safety, not just where bottlenecks occur. 3 233
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Planning-Level Methods Are Not Enough
Cupertino must move beyond broad, planning-level assessments to dynamic, high-resolution evacuation modeling.
 Current method is a “broad evaluation,” not a plan
— Fehr & Peers: constrained areas require dynamic traffic assignment (DTA)  DTA has been adopted widely
— National guidance exists: ISO 22315, NIST ESCAPE
— Peer jurisdictions (e.g., Marin County) already use advanced modeling  Needed tools:
— Scenario-based simulations, Evacuation time analysis, Departure-behavior modeling, Redundant route & shelter analysis, Quantitative performance metrics
Cupertino should be a leader—not a laggard—in evacuation planning. 4 234
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High-Risk Zones Require Street-Level Modeling
Four evacuation zones lie within Fire Hazard Severity Zones, yet the City has not modeled their street-level evacuation behavior.  All designated evacuation routes lie outside FHSZ
 But CUP016, CUP017, CUP029, CUP032 lie inside Moderate–Very High FHSZ — CUP029 alone = 38% of all evacuation trips
— McClellan Road V/C = 4.2; Foothill Blvd V/C = 4.0
— These are not “constraints”—they are system failures
 City must adopt:
— Street-level DTA, Real-time traffic management, Phased evacuation strategies for FHSZ zone
Thousands of residents remain exposed until
Cupertino models evacuation where the risk actually exists. 5 235
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Summary: Cupertino Must Elevate Its Evacuation Planning The current evacuation analysis is not sufficient for
a wildfire-exposed, rapidly densifying Cupertino.

The City must adopt modern, data-driven methods to meet 2040 safety needs.  Dated data source
 Over simplified methods despite known constraints and consultant guidance  High-risk zones (CUP016, 17, 29, 32) require street-level modeling  V/C ratios mask true danger — oversaturation means system failure, not delay  Residents need time-to-safety modeling, not bottleneck identification  Peer jurisdictions already use dynamic traffic assignment & scenario-based tools To protect residents and meet the intent of the Health & Safety Element, Cupertino must move beyond planning-level assumptions and commit to advanced, future-oriented evacuation modeling now. 10 240
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Feedback Health and Safety Element_Hill.docx 3/10/2026
To: Cupertino Planning Department
From: Steve Hill, Cupertino resident
Subject: Feedback on the Draft Health and Safety Element Date March 10, 2026
Artificial turf falls into multiple hazardous materials categories Artificial turf’s negative effect on human and environmental health

1. Artificial turf contains a class of chemicals called PFAS.

The F stands for fluorine. Fluorine atoms combine with carbon atoms in the polyethylene grass blades to create carcinogenic forever chemicals harmful to humans.

2. Negative health effects from PFAS chemicals (NIH).

Epidemiological studies have revealed associations between exposure to specific PFAS and a variety of health effects, including:
 Liver disease
 Kidney disease
 Cancer
 Adverse reproductive and developmental outcomes
 Altered immune and thyroid function
 Lipid and insulin dysregulation

3. Plastic grass carpets are hardscapes.

Plastic grass is an impervious surface: it blocks infiltration, prevents aquifer recharge, and accelerates polluted runoff. Even artificial turf that claims to allow water to filtrate through pollutes our watershed and ocean with microplastics that will never break down from the turf.

Natural turf and native groundcovers, on the other hand, absorb and filter water, turning stormwater from a liability into a resource.
 Rainwater runs off artificial turf and the biome in soil beneath dies.  Artificial turf does not sequester carbon like natural grass.  Plastic ‘blades’ degrade into microplastics that infiltrate sources of drinking water and are washed into the Bay where they can be consumed by aquatic life thinking its food.

Cupertino has approximately 18 acres of artificial turf at its three high schools, and residents are using artificial turf in lieu of real grass for landscaping.

4. Artificial turf emits climate warming gases methane and ethylene. 241
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From: Andrea Wald
To: City of Cupertino Planning Dept.

Subject: Feedback on the Draft Health and Safety Element Date: Wednesday, March 11, 2026 8:57:34 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Following are my comments regarding the Draft General Plan Health and Safety Element. It is my understanding that this plan is being based upon/linked to Cupertino’s Climate Action Plan from August 16, 2022.

Both documents contain a broad range of issues that Cupertino is addressing such that you will become more resilient to earthquakes, flooding, wildfires, extreme heat, and other hazards. I’d like to specifically comment on the areas of CLIMATE CHANGE, HEAT, WASTE, WATER and CARBON SEQUESTRATION.

The City of Cupertino’s vulnerability assessment as summarized in Table 2 (page 23 of the Climate Action Plan) says that Cupertino is extremely susceptible to extreme heat and specifically says young children, seniors, people with pre-existing conditions and low income communities are at risk. It also mentions that there is a predicted increase in extreme heat days by year 2050 and even more by 2100.

will experience. Understanding that planting trees is helpful but also keeping in mind that ALL installations of artificial turf and PIP (poured-in-place) rubberized surfaces are counter to combating the heat island effect whether those installations are on Cupertino owned land (including parks and athletic fields), residential or commercial properties or on school grounds.

And on Pages 69 & 70 from the Draft Plan Policy HS-9.4 says:

Recognize extreme heat as a significant hazard in Cupertino, integrating extreme heat into emergency preparedness and response procedures.

Then under Strategies there is mention of shade, vegetation and trees and natural resources – all in an effort to absorb/mitigate climate-related hazards.

Having a formal plan is great, however, all the verbiage used in these documents is rather vague and broad. What I want to point out is that one thing the city can and should do to address some of these issues is to look into a ban of artificial turf. Artificial turf only exacerbates all the issues that this report is supposed to be addressing. It creates heat islands, is impacting climate change, releases carbon instead of absorbing it (which natural plants – grasses, trees, shrubs do), is not recyclable and therefore ends up in landfill or is shipped far off to be burned, and is poisoning the environment and water with the toxic chemicals (PFAS) it is made with and the microplastics that shed off.

In addition to mentioning things that the city should do – it behooves you to mention things the city should NOT DO – and that is to not install any artificial turf, encourage residents to not use in their own landscaping (I’ve seen way too much as I walk the neighborhoods) and to never again install any PIP in your playgrounds. I tried to get the city to not install it at the 243
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Magical Bridges playground at Jollyman Park. I was told by the time I brought this up it was too late to change plans. What a shame. The PIP and artificial turf surfaces get very hot – and just wait til summer time when those days of extreme heat that are predicted do happen.

These surfaces also wear out and will end up shedding toxic materials into the environment.

They are simply unnatural and unhealthy!
Thank you for considering my input to your document/report.

Sincerely,
Andrea Wald
Co-Founder, Community for Natural Play Surfaces
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From: Linda Liu
To: City of Cupertino Planning Dept.

Subject: Public Comment: Draft Health and Safety Element — Freeway Noise Date: Thursday, May 7, 2026 8:01:41 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Dear Cupertino Planning Division,
I am submitting this comment during the public review period for the Draft Health and Safety Element. I am a resident of Cupertino living in the Homestead Villa neighborhood near the Interstate 280 / Foothill Expressway / State Route 85 interchange, and I am writing to urge the City to strengthen the updated Element's noise policies with specific reference to the I-280 corridor and the noise pollution that it is generating for Cupertino residents.

Current Situation
Measured noise levels in my neighborhood can reach 70 dB — exceeding the U.S. EPA's residential daytime limit of 65 dB and the WHO's daytime safe threshold of 40 dB. The existing Health and Safety Element already acknowledges that "Interstate 280 and Highway 85" are among the greatest contributors to noise pollution in Cupertino (Chapter 7, Noise section). While this issue has been acknowledged by the City, the Interstate 280 corridor has not received adequate noise mitigation and conditions have worsened in recent years due to increased traffic volumes, deteriorating pavement, heavier vehicles with wider tires (e.g., EVs with heavy batteries), and aging or absent soundwall infrastructure.

Additionally, the 2020 VTA off-ramp widening project added northbound Interstate 280 capacity without a corresponding noise mitigation component, leaving residents on both sides of Foothill Expressway near the interchange with little or no acoustic protection. There are also structural gaps in soundwall coverage on both sides of the off- and on-ramps.

Requested Changes to the Draft Element
I respectfully request the following additions in the updated Health and Safety Element:

1. Soundwall Eligibility Review
Include a strategy for the City to formally request that Caltrans evaluate the Interstate 280 and State Route 85 corridor for eligibility under the Caltrans Retrofit Noise Barrier Program.

Where soundwalls are not possible, request to evaluate other options such as a soundattenuating fence.

2. Rubberized Asphalt Advocacy
Add language to advocate with VTA for noise-reducing pavement (rubberized asphalt) on Interstate 280 within Cupertino's jurisdiction. Rubberized asphalt can reduce noise by 4–6 dB.

3. City-led Noise Abatement
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From: Jean Bedord
To: City of Cupertino Planning Dept.

Subject: Feedback on Health and Safety Element - Evacuations Date: Thursday, May 7, 2026 9:42:24 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

HI,
Overall, this was an excellent document - I didn't realize there were so many plans. The one concern was the evacuation maps. They need to be more user friendly. There are PDF maps for CUP-E001 to CUP-E034, but no labels to identify the areas.https://www.cupertino.gov/evacuation Evacuations continue to be a concern to residents so this area could be expanded.

Warm regards,
Jean Bedord
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CITY OF CUPERTINO
Agenda Item
26-14864 Agenda Date: 5/19/2026
Agenda #: 1.

Subject: Recognition of the Public Works Department (Capital Improvements, Development Services, Transportation, Environmental Programs and Sustainability, Facilities and Fleet, Grounds, Streets and Sidewalks, and Trees and Right-of-Way Divisions) in conjunction with Public Works Week, May 17-23, 2026 Recognize the Public Works Department (Capital Improvements, Development Services, Transportation, Environmental Programs and Sustainability, Facilities and Fleet, Grounds, Streets and Sidewalks, and Trees and Right-of-Way Divisions) in conjunction with Public Works Week, May 17-23, 2026 CITY OF CUPERTINO Page 1 of 1 Printed on 5/13/2026
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Proclamation

WHEREAS,

WHEREAS,
The 66th annual National Public Works Week, sponsored by the American Public Works Association, focuses on Public Works being “Rooted in Service, Powered by Community”; and,
Public Works professionals focus on infrastructure, facilities, and services that are of vital importance to sustainable and resilient communities and to public health, high quality of life, and well-being of the people of the people of California and the City of Cupertino; and,
WHEREAS, These infrastructure, facilities, and services could not be provided without the dedicated efforts of Public Works professionals, who are responsible for rebuilding, improving, and protecting our nation’s transportation systems, parks, public buildings, and other structures and facilities essential for our residents; and,
WHEREAS, It is in the public interest for the residents, civic leaders, and children in Cupertino to gain knowledge of and to maintain an ongoing interest and understanding of the importance of Public Works and Public Works programs in their respective communities; and,
WHEREAS, The knowledge, understanding, involvement, and participation of the community greatly enhances the results that can be attained by the qualified and dedicated employees of the City’s Public Works Department.

THEREFORE, I, Mayor Kitty Moore and the Cupertino City Council do hereby Proclaim the week of May 17 to 23, 2026 as the 66th annual
National Public Works Week
in the City of Cupertino, and encourage the community to become familiar with Public Works services and to recognize the contributions that Public Works employees make to the health, safety, comfort, and quality of life in the City of Cupertino.

IN WITNESS THEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the City of Cupertino to be affixed this Tuesday, May Nineteen, Two Thousand and Twenty-Six. ____________________________
The Honorable Kitty Moore
Mayor, City of Cupertino
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CITY OF CUPERTINO
Agenda Item
26-15087 Agenda Date: 5/19/2026
Agenda #: 2.

Subject: Recognition of Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Month.

Present proclamations recognizing Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Month.

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Proclamation
WHEREAS, The City of Cupertino wishes to recognize Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who contribute to our country’s economy and supplement the unique character of our nation; and
WHEREAS, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have provided Cupertino and the United States with a unique cultural influence; and WHEREAS, The U.S. began recognizing May as Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month in 1992, which was fueled by the Asian American activism movement resulting from the murder of Vincent Chin in 1982; and
WHEREAS, We have seen Asian American and Pacific Islander leaders, scientists, and teachers, who have also campaigned and fought to create a fairer and more just society for all Americans; and WHEREAS, On May 18, 2019, elected officials recognized the day as AAPI Day Against Bullying and Hate to combat the rise of discrimination against the community; and
WHEREAS, Taiwanese American Heritage Week, observed from May 10 through May 17, is a time to recognize and celebrate the rich cultural traditions, history, and contributions of Taiwanese Americans in our community; and
WHEREAS, The Cupertino City Council dedicates the month of May to all our Asian American and Pacific Islander families, friends, and neighbors who have helped make Cupertino great, as we
denounce all hate aimed towards this community. The City wishes to recognize the Asian American Parents Association for all their efforts.

THEREFORE, I, Mayor Kitty Moore, and the Cupertino City Council do hereby proclaim the month of May as
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
in the City of Cupertino and encourage the community to celebrate the contributions that Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have made to our state and nation.

IN WITNESS THEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the City of Cupertino to be affixed this Tuesday, May 19, 2026.
____________________________
The Honorable Kitty Moore
Mayor, City of Cupertino
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Proclamation
WHEREAS, The City of Cupertino wishes to recognize Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who contribute to our country’s economy and supplement the unique character of our nation; and
WHEREAS, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have provided Cupertino and the United States with a unique cultural influence; and WHEREAS, The U.S. began recognizing May as Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month in 1992, which was fueled by the Asian American activism movement resulting from the murder of Vincent Chin in 1982; and
WHEREAS, We have seen Asian American and Pacific Islander leaders, scientists, and teachers, who have also campaigned and fought to create a fairer and more just society for all Americans; and WHEREAS, On May 18, 2019, elected officials recognized the day as AAPI Day Against Bullying and Hate to combat the rise of discrimination against the community; and
WHEREAS, Taiwanese American Heritage Week, observed from May 10 through May 17, is a time to recognize and celebrate the rich cultural traditions, history, and contributions of Taiwanese Americans in our community; and
WHEREAS, The Cupertino City Council dedicates the month of May to all our Asian American and Pacific Islander families, friends, and neighbors who have helped make Cupertino great, as we
denounce all hate aimed towards this community. The City wishes to recognize the Asian Pacific American Public Affairs for all their efforts.

THEREFORE, I, Mayor Kitty Moore, and the Cupertino City Council do hereby proclaim the month of May as
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
in the City of Cupertino and encourage the community to celebrate the contributions that Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have made to our state and nation.

IN WITNESS THEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the City of Cupertino to be affixed this Tuesday, May 19, 2026.
____________________________
The Honorable Kitty Moore
Mayor, City of Cupertino
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CITY OF CUPERTINO
Agenda Item
25-14675 Agenda Date: 5/19/2026
Agenda #: 3.

Subject: Approval of May 5, 2026 City Council meeting minutes.

Approve the May 5, 2026 City Council meeting minutes.

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DRAFT MINUTES

CUPERTINO CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
At 5:30 p.m., Mayor Moore called the regular City Council Meeting to order in City Hall Conference Room C, 10300 Torre Avenue, Cupertino, CA 95014.

ROLL CALL

Present: Mayor Kitty Moore, Vice Mayor Liang Chao, and Councilmembers J.R. Fruen and Sheila Mohan. Absent: Councilmember R “Ray” Wang.

At 5:31 p.m., Mayor Moore recused herself from this item and stated the basis for her recusal and left the dais. Vice Mayor Chao resumed chairing the meeting.

In open session prior to closed session, Vice Mayor Chao opened the public comment period and, seeing no one, closed the public comment period.

CLOSED SESSION

1. Subject: Conference with Real Property Negotiators; California Government Code section 54954.5

1. Property: 10480 Finch Avenue, Cupertino, CA (APN 375-40-067)

2. Agency Negotiators: Tina Kapoor, City Manager, and Floy Andrews, Interim City Attorney

3. Negotiating parties: City of Cupertino and Cupertino Union School District

4. Under negotiation: Price and terms of payment
Council met with Real Property Negotiators (Moore recused, Wang absent).

ADJOURNMENT
At 5:46 p.m., Vice Mayor Chao adjourned the meeting.

OPEN SESSION

SPECIAL MEETING
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At 5:52 p.m., Mayor Moore called the Special City Council Meeting to order in the Cupertino Community Hall Council Chamber, 10350 Torre Avenue and via teleconference.

ROLL CALL

Present: Mayor Kitty Moore, Vice Mayor Liang Chao, and Councilmembers J.R. Fruen and Sheila Mohan. Absent: Councilmember R “Ray” Wang.

STUDY SESSION

1. Subject: Silicon Valley Hopper: A program overview and proposed strategy for future grant funding.

Recommended Action: Receive an update on 2025 SV Hopper service metrics and support staff’s proposal to pursue a Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP) Cycle 8 application in coordination with partner agencies.

Written communications for this item included staff presentation and desk item.

Transit and Transportation Planner Matt Schroeder gave a presentation.

Councilmembers asked questions and made comments.

Mayor Moore opened the public comment period and the following members of the public spoke:

Peggy Griffin (virtually)
Planning Commissioner San Rao (representing self) (virtually) Mayor Moore closed the public comment period.

Council received an update on the 2025 SV Hopper service metrics (Wang absent).

Council conducted a straw poll to determine support for staff to pursue all applicable grant opportunities to fund the SV Hopper program. (Ayes: Moore, Chao, Fruen, and Mohan. Noes: None. Absent: Wang)

ADJOURNMENT
At 6:41 p.m., Mayor Kitty Moore adjourned the Special City Council Meeting.

REGULAR MEETING
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CALL TO ORDER
At 6:45 p.m., Mayor Moore called the Regular City Council Meeting to order and led the Pledge of Allegiance in the Cupertino Community Hall Council Chamber, 10350 Torre Avenue and via teleconference; and Teleconference Location Pursuant to Gov. Code 54953(b)(2): Renaissance Cincinnati Downtown, Hotel Lobby, 36 E 4th St, Cincinnati, OH 45202.

ROLL CALL

Present: Mayor Kitty Moore, Vice Mayor Liang Chao, and Councilmembers J.R. Fruen and Sheila Mohan. Councilmember R “Ray” Wang (arrived at 7:32 p.m. and participated virtually).

Councilmember Wang confirmed that he was in the noticed public location, that he had posted the notice of the meeting at his remote location and that no other individuals over the age of 18 were with him and that no one had indicated to him that they were intending to make public comment or address the Council.

CLOSED SESSION REPORT
City Attorney Floy Andrews announced no reportable action taken during the closed session held at 5:30 p.m.

CEREMONIAL ITEMS

1. Subject: Recognition of Sanyasi Chetty Mummidivarapu on the occasion of their 100th birthday.

Recommended Action: Present certificate of recognition to Sanyasi Chetty Mummidivarapu on the occasion of their 100th birthday.

Sanyasi Chetty Mummidivarapu received the certificate of recognition.

Mayor Moore presented the certificate of recognition to Sanyasi Chetty Mummidivarapu on the occasion of their 100th birthday.

2. Subject: Recognition of National Public Service Recognition Week of May 3-9, 2026 and the Dedication of Public Servants.

Recommended Action: Present proclamation recognizing National Public Service Recognition Week of May 3-9, 2026 and the Dedication of Public Servants.

City Manager Tina Kapoor received the proclamation.
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Mayor Moore presented the proclamation recognizing National Public Service Recognition Week of May 3-9, 2026 and the dedication of public servants.

3. Subject: Recognition of May 2026 as National Physical Fitness Month.

Recommended Action: Recognize May as National Physical Fitness Month.

Mayor Moore verbally recognized May as National Physical Fitness Month.

4. Subject: Recognition of May as National Foster Care Month.

Recommended Action: Present proclamation to Assemblymember Patrick Ahrens recognizing May as National Foster Care Month.

Assemblymember Patrick Ahrens received the proclamation (virtually).

Mayor Moore presented the proclamation recognizing May as National Foster Care Month.

POSTPONEMENTS AND ORDERS OF THE DAY
MOTION: Moore moved and Mohan seconded to postpone Item No. 21 to a date to be determined. The motion passed with the following vote: Ayes: Moore, Chao, Fruen, Mohan and Wang. Noes: None. Abstain: None. Absent: None.

ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Written communications for this item included emails to the Council.

The following members of the public spoke:

Steve Sulgit representing Cupertino Toyokawa Sister City, discussed Cupertino Cherry Blossom Festival.

Catherine Chiu, Bianca Guerrero, Susan Bloomfield, Craig Bloomfield, Fred Drinkwater, representing group, discussed pickleball.

Zoey Tran, Alex Whitworth, Liam Chau and Lucas Chau, representing group, discussed pickleball.

MaryAnne Overton discussed pickleball.
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Chris Pham, Lin Tsai, Joel Amzallag, and Randane Fraisse, representing group, discussed pickleball.

Robert George discussed pickleball.

Tom Cunningham, Yuriko Chapman, Huan-Shang Tsai, Bob McElheny, and Shelley McElheny, representing group, discussed pickleball.

Kevin Yang discussed pickleball.

Adam Orrin, Danielle Wu, Connie Chin, Boon Chanchoke, and Danny Cheng, representing group, discussed pickleball.

Aref S. discussed pickleball.

Varun Singh and Raj Thapliyas, representing group, discussed City land and green space in the community.

Rhoda Fry discussed pickleball, flock safety cameras, and sheriff’s response procedures.

At 7:32 p.m., Councilmember Wang joined the meeting (virtually).

Planning Commissioner Tracy Kosolcharoen (representing the Planning Commission) (virtually) discussed the results of their Community Noticing Subcommittee report.

Peggy Griffin (virtually) discussed a Civil Grand Jury report concerning the City.

Call-in User_1 (virtually) discussed pickleball and a Code Enforcement matter involving their home.

Planning Commissioner San Rao (representing self) (virtually) discussed a Civil Grand Jury report concerning the City.

Jennifer Griffin (virtually) discussed a Civil Grand Jury report concerning the City.

CONSENT CALENDAR (Items 5-18)
Mayor Moore opened the public comment period and the following members of the public spoke.

Rhoda Fry (Item 10)
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Planning Commissioner San Rao (representing self) (virtually) (Items 11, 12, and 15) Mayor Moore closed the public comment period.

Mayor Moore removed Item No. 14 from the Consent Calendar to be voted on separately.

MOTION: Moore moved and Chao seconded to approve Consent Calendar Item No. 14 authorizing the Mayor to sign a joint letter from various cities within the County to Speaker Robert Rivas expressing concerns regarding the volume and implementation of recent state housing and land use legislation. The motion passed with the following vote: Ayes: Moore, Chao, Fruen, and Mohan. Noes: Wang. Abstain: None. Absent: None.

MOTION: Fruen moved and Chao seconded to approve Consent Calendar Item Nos. 5-13 and 15-18. The motion passed with the following vote: Ayes: Moore, Chao, Fruen, Mohan and Wang. Noes: None. Abstain: None. Absent: None.

5. Subject: Approval of April 21, 2026 City Council meeting minutes.

Recommended Action: Approve the April 21, 2026 City Council meeting minutes.

6. Subject: Reaffirming ratification of Accounts Payable for the periods ending March 13, 2026, and March 27, 2026
Recommended Action: A. Adopt Resolution No. 26-049 reaffirming ratification of Accounts Payable for the Period ending March 13, 2026; and B. Adopt Resolution No. 26-050 reaffirming ratification of Accounts Payable for the Period ending March 27, 2026

7. Subject: Receive the Monthly Treasurer's Investment Report for March 2026 Recommended Action: Receive the Monthly Treasurer's Investment Report for March 2026

8. Subject: Receive the Monthly Treasurer's Report for March 2026 Recommended Action: Receive the Monthly Treasurer's Report for March 2026

9. Subject: Receive the Treasurer's Investment Report for the Quarter Ending March 31, 2026
Recommended Action: Receive the Treasurer's Investment Report for the Quarter Ending March 31, 2026

10. Subject: Updates to the Policy on Sister Cities, Friendship Cities, and International Delegations.

Recommended Action: Adopt the updated City of Cupertino’s Policy on Sister Cities, 259
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Friendship Cities, and International Delegations.

Written communications for this item included a supplemental report.

11. Subject: Award a construction contract for the 2026 Pavement Maintenance Phase 1 Project to O’Grady Paving, Inc. in the amount of $1,869,804; authorization of contract execution and change orders up to $2,150,274.

Recommended Action: 1. Award a construction contract for the 2026 Pavement Maintenance Phase 1 Project number 2026-101 in the amount of $1,869,804 to O’Grady Paving, Inc.

2. Authorize the City Manager to execute the construction contract with O’Grady Paving, Inc. when all conditions have been met.

3. Authorize the Director of Public Works to execute any necessary construction change orders up to a construction contingency amount of $280,470 (15%) for a total contract amount not to exceed $2,150,274.

12. Subject: Award a construction contract for the 2026 Pavement Maintenance Phase 2 Project to Pavement Coatings Company in the amount of $2,599,235; authorize contract execution and change orders up to $259,924 (total not to exceed $2,859,159).

Recommended Action: 1. Award a construction contract for the 2026 Pavement Maintenance Phase 2 Project number 2026-102 in the amount of $2,599,235 to Pavement Coatings Company.

2. Authorize the City Manager to execute the construction contract with Pavement Coatings Company when all conditions have been met.

3. Authorize the Director of Public Works to execute any necessary construction change orders up to a construction contingency amount of $259,924 (10%) for a total contract amount not to exceed $2,859,159.

13. Subject: Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-2027 projects proposed to receive funding under the Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account (RMRA) established by Senate Bill (SB) 1; proposed funding of $1,692,995 in SB 1 revenues.

Recommended Action: Adopt Resolution No. 26-051 (Attachment A) establishing a list of projects proposed to be funded by $1,692,995 of SB 1 revenues, estimated to be received in FY 2026-2027.

14. Subject: Authorization for Mayor to Sign Multi-Jurisdictional Letter Regarding State Housing Legislation as updated by the Council Ad Hoc Subcommittee. (Continued from April 7, 2026)
Recommended Action: Authorize the Mayor to sign a joint letter from various cities within the County to Speaker Robert Rivas expressing concerns regarding the volume and implementation of recent state housing and land use legislation. 260
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Written communications for this item included a supplemental report.

As noted under the Consent Calendar, this item was voted on separately.

15. Subject: Approval of First Amendment to Master Agreement with Ghirardelli and Associates for 2026-2027 Pavement Maintenance Program services; authorize contract execution increase contract by $588,538 to total not to exceed amount of $808,538.

Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute a First Amendment to a Master Agreement (#2026-011) with Ghirardelli and Associates for Project Management and Construction Management Services for 2026-2027 Pavement Maintenance Program (Attachment A), increasing the contract amount by $588,538 for a new total not to exceed amount of $808,538.

16. Subject: Second reading and enactment of amendments to Cupertino Municipal Code, Chapter 9.17 Single-Use Carryout Bags, pertaining to regulation of single-use carryout bags at retail stores and restaurants.

Recommended Action: 1. Conduct the second reading and enact Ordinance 26-2280:
"AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CUPERTINO AMENDING CITY CODE TO AMEND SECTIONS 9.17.100, 9.17.110, 9.17.130, AND

9.17.140 TO REGULATE SINGLE-USE CARRYOUT BAGS'

2. Find that the proposed actions are exempt from CEQA.

17. Subject: Second reading and enactment of an Ordinance to amend Cupertino Municipal Code Title 16 to conform to requirements from the California Building Standards Commission (CBSC).

Recommended Action: Conduct the second reading and enact Ordinance No. 26-2281:
“AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CUPERTINO AMENDING CHAPTERS 16.02, 16.04, 16.06, 16.10, 16.16, 16.20, 16.24, 16.40, 16.42,

16.54, 16.58, 16.62, 16.64, 16.68 and 16.80 OF TITLE 16 OF THE CUPERTINO

MUNICIPAL CODE ADOPTING THE CALIFORNIA BUILDING, RESIDENTIAL,

ELECTRICAL, MECHANICAL, PLUMBING, ENERGY, WILDLAND-URBAN

INTERFACE CODE, HISTORICAL BUILDING CODE, FIRE, EXISTING BUILDING

CODE, GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE, REFERENCED STANDARDS

CODE, UNIFORM HOUSING CODE, AND PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE,

WITH CERTAIN EXCEPTIONS, DELETIONS, MODIFICATIONS, ADDITIONS AND AMENDMENTS.

18. Subject: Second reading and enactment of an Ordinance amending City Code Title Five (Business Licenses and Regulations) to Establish Chapter 5.51 to Regulate Film Production.

Recommended Action: Conduct the second reading and enact Ordinance No. 26-2282:
“AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CUPERTINO 261
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AMENDING CITY CODE TITLE FIVE (BUSINESS LICENSES AND REGULATIONS) TO ESTABLISH CHAPTER 5.51 TO REGULATE FILM PRODUCTION.” At 8:03 p.m., Mayor Moore recessed the meeting. The meeting reconvened at 8:10 p.m. with all Councilmembers present (Wang virtually).

ACTION CALENDAR

19. Subject: Introduction and first reading of an ordinance amending Cupertino Municipal Code Sections 1.10, 2.20, 2.24, 2.48, 2.88, 3.12, and 3.38 to reflect organizational changes related to departmental structure and responsibilities.

Recommended Action: Introduce and conduct the first reading of Ordinance No. 26-2283: “AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CUPERTINO AMENDING MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTERS 1.10, 2.20, 2.24, 2.48, 2.88, 3.12, AND

3.38.”
Written communications for this item included a staff presentation and desk item.

Acting Director of Administrative Services Jonathan Orozco gave a presentation.

Councilmembers asked clarifying questions.

Mayor Moore opened the public comment period and the following members of the public spoke:

Planning Commissioner San Rao (representing self) (virtually) Councilmembers asked questions and made comments.

Mayor Moore closed the public comment period.

MOTION: Chao moved and Fruen seconded the staff recommendation to conduct the first reading of Ordinance No. 26-2283: “AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CUPERTINO AMENDING MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTERS 1.10,

2.20, 2.24, 2.48, 2.88, 3.12, AND 3.38.” The motion passed with the following vote:

Ayes: Moore, Chao, Fruen, Mohan and Wang. Noes: None. Abstain: None. Absent:

None.

20. Subject: Introduction of an ordinance to make minor revisions to the Municipal Code amending Chapter 2.04 (Chapter 2.04: City Council-Election and Meetings): Section

2.04.020 Special Meetings; Chapter 3.23 (Public Works Contract and Bidding Procedures): Section 3.23.020 (Definitions) to align with AB 2192; Chapter 5.04 (Business 262
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Licenses Generally): Section 5.04.480 (Appeal Procedure); Chapter 5.32 (BINGO):

Section 5.32.130 (Total Value of Prizes); Chapter 11.28 (Abandoned, Wrecked, Inoperative Vehicles): Sections 11.28.010 (Definitions) and 11.28.050 (Sale of Merchandise); Chapter 13.04 (Parks): Sections 13.04.130 (Behavior of Persons in Parks) and 13.04.180 (Advertising and Sale Restrictions); and Chapter 16.52 (Prevention of Flood Damage): Sections 16.52.011 (Lands to Which this Chapter Applies) and 16.52.053 (Standards for Manufactured Homes).

Recommended Action: Introduce and conduct the first reading of Ordinance No. 26-2284: "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CUPERTINO AMENDING MUNICIPAL CODE SECTIONS 2.04.020, 3.23.020, 5.04.480, 5.32.130,

11.28.010, 11.28.050, 13.04.130, 13.04.180, 16.52.011, AND 16.52.053." Deputy City Manager Kirsten Squarcia gave a presentation.

Councilmembers asked clarifying questions.

Mayor Moore opened the public comment period and the following members of the public spoke:

Planning Commissioner San Rao (representing self) (virtually) Councilmembers asked questions and made comments.

Mayor Moore closed the public comment period.

MOTION: Fruen moved and Wang seconded the staff recommendation to conduct the first reading of Ordinance No. 26-2284: "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL

OF THE CITY OF CUPERTINO AMENDING MUNICIPAL CODE SECTIONS

2.04.020, 3.23.020, 5.04.480, 5.32.130, 11.28.010, 11.28.050, 13.04.130, 13.04.180,

16.52.011, AND 16.52.053." The motion passed with the following vote: Ayes: Moore, Chao, Fruen, Mohan and Wang. Noes: None. Abstain: None. Absent: None.

21. Subject: Revisions to City of Cupertino City Council Procedures Manual.

Recommended Action: Consider suggested updates and adopt Resolution No 26-052, approving amendments to the City Council Procedures Manual.

As noted under Postponements and Orders of the Day, this item was postponed to a date to be determined.

ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR

CITY MANAGER REPORT
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22. Subject: City Manager Report
City Manager Tina Kapoor included the City Manager Newsletter, which includes recent highlights and upcoming events as provided in the published agenda.

ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - CONTINUED - None

COUNCILMEMBER REPORTS

23. Subject: Councilmember Reports
Written communications for this item included corrected Attachment B – Councilmember Report, Fruen.

Councilmembers included reports on their various committees and events as provided in the published agenda.

FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

24. Subject: Upcoming Draft Agenda Items Report
A tentative Council meeting agenda calendar was provided in the published agenda.

ADJOURNMENT
At 8:48 p.m., Mayor Kitty Moore adjourned the Regular City Council Meeting.

Minutes prepared by:
________________________________
Lauren Sapudar, City Clerk
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CITY OF CUPERTINO
Agenda Item
26-14915 Agenda Date: 5/19/2026
Agenda #: 4.

Subject: Setting a hearing date of June 16, 2026 to declare brush with potential fire hazard a public nuisance and consider objections to proposed removal through the Cupertino Brush Abatement Program (WildlandUrban Interface Fire Area); declaring properties as having potential fire hazards from brush a public nuisance and authorizing removal.

Adopt Resolution No 26-053 declaring properties as having potential fire hazards from brush a public nuisance; and set a hearing date of June 16, 2026 to declare brush with potential fire hazard a public nuisance and to hear objections to proposed removal
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OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK

CITY HALL
10300 TORRE AVENUE • CUPERTINO, CA 95014-3255
TELEPHONE: (408) 777-3223
CUPERTINO.GOV

CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
Date: May 19, 2026
Subject
Setting a hearing date of June 16, 2026 to declare brush with potential fire hazard a public nuisance and consider objections to proposed removal through the Cupertino Brush Abatement Program (Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area); declaring properties as having potential fire hazards from brush a public nuisance and authorizing removal.

Recommended Action
Adopt Resolution No 26-___ declaring properties as having potential fire hazards from brush a public nuisance; and set a hearing date of June 16, 2026 to declare brush with potential fire hazard a public nuisance and to hear objections to proposed removal.

Background
The Cupertino Brush Abatement Program is a separate program from the County Weed Abatement Program that works to protect the City from wildfire risk by reducing potential fuel, such as brush, from hillside areas. This program is managed by the Santa Clara County Fire Department. Cupertino Municipal Code Section 16.40.200 requires property owners in the locally adopted Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area (WUI) to maintain effective defensible space by removing brush, flammable vegetation and combustible growth when required by the fire code official due to steepness of terrain or other conditions. All properties in the WUI area are subject to the requirements of the Brush Abatement Program. The Program authorizes the County to remove the brush if the property owner does not and to recover the cost of abatement.

Reasons for Recommendation and Available Options
Each year, homeowners are reminded that they must remove brush and vegetation from around their home to comply with minimum fire safe regulations. On March 9, 2026, County Fire mailed a letter notifying property owners in designated fire hazard severity zones (Attachments C-D).

Fire crews begin conducting property inspections in early April of each year. Properties that are found to be out of compliance with the enforced safety regulations are issued a notice of violation requesting corrections (Attachment E). These properties are identified on the Non-Compliant Properties List prepared by County Fire (Attachment B, Exhibit A in Resolution). All properties must comply before June 1. After June 1, non-compliant properties are referred for mandatory abatement by an assigned County contractor. The costs associated with the abatement work for 266
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that parcel are placed on the homeowner’s property tax bill. A list of Santa Clara County Weed Abatement fees is also included (Attachment F).

To proceed with the annual brush abatement process, staff recommends adopting the draft resolution declaring properties as having potential fire hazards from brush a public nuisance; and setting a hearing date of June 16, 2026 to declare brush with potential fire hazard a public nuisance and to hear objections to proposed removal (Attachment A). If the resolution is not adopted, County Fire will be unable to authorize abatement work performed by a contractor on properties that are not in compliance with the vegetation clearance requirements.

Sustainability Impact
No sustainability impact.

Fiscal Impact
There are no fiscal impacts at this step in the process. Any costs associated with the program are charged to property owners, as determined at the lien assessment hearing on June 16. The City Council holds the hearing, considers any objections, and adopts a resolution placing a lien assessment on the properties to allow the County to recover the cost of weed and/or brush abatement.

City Work Program (CWP) Item/Description
None.

Council Goal:

Quality of Life.

California Environmental Quality Act
Weed abatement activities are exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under CEQA Guidelines section 15304 (minor alteration to land). _____________________________________
Prepared by: Lauren Sapudar, City Clerk
Reviewed by: Kirsten Squarcia, Deputy City Manager
Approved for Submission by: Tina Kapoor, City Manager
Attachments:

A – Draft Resolution and Exhibit A (Non-Compliant Properties List) B – Non-Compliant Properties List (Exhibit A in Resolution) C – Defensible Space Inspection Letter Property Owner Letter D – Defensible Space Information Property Owner Letter
E – Notice of Violation
F – 2026 Santa Clara County Weed Abatement Rates
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RESOLUTION NO. 26-___

A RESOLUTION OF THE CUPERTINO CITY COUNCIL

DECLARING PROPERTIES AS HAVING POTENTIAL FIRE HAZARDS

FROM BRUSH AND SETTING A PUBLIC HEARING TO DECLARE A

PUBLIC NUISANCE AND FOR OBJECTIONS TO PROPOSED REMOVAL
WHEREAS, brush is growing in the City of Cupertino upon certain streets, sidewalks, highways, roads and private property; and
WHEREAS, said brush may attain such growth as to become a fire menace or which are otherwise noxious or dangerous; and
WHEREAS, said brush appears to be a public nuisance;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Cupertino does hereby declare:

1. That said brush does now appear to be a public nuisance and potential fire hazard;

2. That said condition and potential fire hazard exists upon all of the streets, sidewalks, highways, roads, and private property more particularly described by common names or by reference to the tract, block, lot, code area, and parcel number on the report to be provided by the Santa Clara County Fire Department;

3. That the 16th day of June, 2026, at the hour of 6:45 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter can be heard, in the Council Chamber in the Community Hall, City of Cupertino and via teleconference, with details on how to attend the meeting appearing on the City Council agenda for that date, are hereby set as the time and place to determine whether the condition is a public nuisance and where all property owners having any objections to the proposed removal of such brush may be heard;

4. That the Santa Clara County Fire Marshal is hereby designated and ordered as the person to give notice of the adoption of this resolution in the manner and form provided in Section 16.40.200 of the Cupertino Municipal Code.
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Resolution No. 26-

PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Cupertino this 19th day of May, 2026, by the following vote:

Members of the City Council
AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

SIGNED:
________
Kitty Moore, Mayor
City of Cupertino
________________________
Date
ATTEST:
________
Lauren Sapudar, City Clerk
________________________
Date
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Resolution No. 26-

Reserved for Exhibit A
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Cupertino
Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) Enforced Safety Regulations 2026 Non-Compliant Properties
# Situs Address Inspection Date
1 22253 De Anza Circle North May 10, 2026
2 22283 De Anza Circle North May 10, 2026
3 22303 De Anza Circle North May 10, 2026
4 10900 Drea Road May 10, 2026
Cupertino
Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) Enforced Safety Regulations 2026 Properties Still Needing Inspection
# Situs Address
1 22620 Alcalde Road
22632 Alcalde Road #1
22650 Alcalde Road
10546 Merriman Road
10555 Merriman Road
10556 Merriman Road
10566 Merriman Road
10575 Merriman Road
10576 Merriman Road
10585 Merriman Road
10591 Merriman Road
10593 Merriman Road
10595 Merriman Road
10605 Merriman Road
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10614 Merriman Road
10620 Merriman Road
10625 Merriman Road
10629 Merriman Road
10631 Merriman Road
10632 Merriman Road
10636 Merriman Road
10638 Merriman Road
10641 Merriman Road
10646 Merriman Road
10650 Merriman Road
10651 Merriman Road
10670 Merriman Road
10680 Merriman Road
10690 Merriman Road
10695 Merriman Road
10700 Merriman Road
10530 Santa Lucia Road
10540 Santa Lucia Road
10551 Santa Lucia Road
10554 Santa Lucia Road
10566 Santa Lucia Road
10570 Santa Lucia Road
10582 Santa Lucia Road
10583 Santa Lucia Road
10584 Santa Lucia Road
10590 Santa Lucia Road
10596 Santa Lucia Road
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10600 Santa Lucia Road
10615 Santa Lucia Road
10620 Santa Lucia Road
10630 Santa Lucia Road
10631 Santa Lucia Road
10645 Santa Lucia Road
10650 Santa Lucia Road
10651 Santa Lucia Road
10655 Santa Lucia Road
10663 Santa Lucia Road
10668 Santa Lucia Road
10675 Santa Lucia Road
10679 Santa Lucia Road
10692 Santa Lucia Road
10701 Santa Lucia Road
10707 Santa Lucia Road
10715 Santa Lucia Road
10721 Santa Lucia Road
10723 Santa Lucia Road
10725 Santa Lucia Road
10729 Santa Lucia Road
10739 Santa Lucia Road
10741 Santa Lucia Road
10744 Santa Lucia Road
10751 Santa Lucia Road
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March 9, 2026
<<Endorsement Line>>
<<Owner Name>>
<<Owner Address>>
<<Owner City>>, <<Owner State>> <<Owner ZIP Code>>

FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF
RE: <<Property Address>> / APN: <<APN>> Dear
Property Owner,
Each year, the Santa Clara County Fire Department partners with your city or town to conduct Wildland Fire Safety Inspections. Wildfires continue to pose a serious threat in California, particularly in the Wildland Urban Interface. This letter outlines important safety requirements for your property and highlights resources available to help you prepare, take action, and remain compliant. Your property is located in a designated Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone and is subject to minimum fire-safe regulations in the Government Code (GC), Public Resources Code (PRC), the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code (CWUIC), and the California Fire Code (CFC).

This letter includes a property self-inspection card that can be completed and returned by mail or online with the provided QR code. Self-inspections are a key component in achieving fire resilience for residents and the community.

Please use the QR code provided below to submit your self-inspection online (Option 1) or complete this card and return by mail (Option 2).

Your property is in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone of the Wildland Urban Interface and therefore requires 100 feet of defensible space from all structures up to the property line. Defensible space is the necessary buffer created around a structure when combustible vegetation is removed or reduced. The enforced safety regulations for your property include:

Enforced Safety Regulations (Items A - H)
A. Create 100 feet of defensible space around your home up to the property line. To accomplish this, fuels shall be maintained and spaced in a condition so that a wildfire would be unlikely to ignite a structure (GC § 51182(a)(1)).

B. Maintain the roof of a structure free of leaves, needles, or other vegetative materials (GC § 51182(a)(4)).

C. Trim tree limbs 10 feet from chimneys and stove pipes (GC § 51182(a)(2)).

D. Maintain a tree, shrub, or other plant adjacent to or overhanging a building free of dead or dying wood (GC § 51182(a)(3)).

E. Remove vegetation a minimum of 10 feet around liquefied petroleum gas tanks. Vegetation between 10 feet and 20 feet shall be fire-smart vegetation (CWUIC § 606.3).

F. Store woodpiles a minimum of 30 feet from structures and clear all vegetation within 10 feet of woodpiles (CWUIC § 607.1).

G. Cover chimney outlets or flues with a 1/2” mesh spark arrester (CWUIC § 605.1).

H. Post a clearly visible house address, using at least 4” high numbers, for easy identification (CFC § 505.1). For homes located more than 50 feet from the street, post address numbers at the driveway entrance.

Additional Safety Recommendations
• Create and maintain a 5-foot ember-resistant zone around any structure by removing vegetation that would likely be ignited by embers.
• Trees 18 feet or taller should be limbed up 6 feet from the ground. Provide additional vertical clearance when trees have vegetation beneath them.
• Clear vegetation and other combustible material from underneath decks. Enclose elevated decks with fireresistive materials. • Areas within 10 feet on each side of portions of fire apparatus access roads and driveways to be clear of vegetation growth that is not fire-smart.
<<Owner Name>>
<<Owner Address>>
<<Owner City>>, <<Owner State>> <<Owner ZIP Code>>
SANTA CLARA COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT ATTN: FIRE

PREVENTION DIVISION
1315 DELL AVENUE
CAMPBELL, CA 95008-6609
PLACE
STAMP
HERE
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Owner Responsibilities:

1. Please ensure that your property satisfies the listed requirements. You have the option to complete the required work yourself or hire a contractor. For information about vegetation abatement services, visit WeedAbatement.SCCgov.org or call 408.282.3145. If your property is part of a homeowner’s association (HOA), your HOA may also be able to provide guidance or assistance.

2. Please either complete and return the attached property self-inspection card OR scan the QR Code below (under Option 1) to report the current status of your property before April 1, 2026.

Inspection Schedule:

On April 1, 2026, Santa Clara County Fire Department (SCCFD) will begin conducting property inspections. Property owners not in compliance will be notified of what work needs to be completed to comply with the Enforced Safety Regulations. We will conduct a reinspection of the properties that were out of compliance.

If you fail to address the issues identified for your property by June 1, 2026, the violation will be forwarded to <<contractor>>, and the compliance work may be completed by the <<contractor>>’s authorized contractor.

The charges for any services completed by the authorized contractor will appear on your next property tax bill.

See QR Code below for resources to help you prepare for wildfire, including upcoming workshops.

Sincerely,
Hector R. Estrada, Assistant Chief
Fire Prevention Division
Choose ONE:

1. Scan the QR code below with a smartphone camera to submit your response online OR

2. Complete and mail the attached information card below.

I have received the annual Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) Enforced Safety Regulations letter related to flammable vegetation abatement. The current status of my property is as follows (choose one):
□ I have inspected my property for flammable vegetation clearance and believe it complies with the Enforced Safety Regulations. I understand that an inspection of my property may be conducted to verify compliance. □ I will remove flammable vegetation around allstructures on my property in accordance with the Enforced Safety Regulations by the required time-frame. I understand that if the required work is not completed, the authorized contractor will complete the work and the charges will appear on my next property tax bill. □ I am no longer the owner of this property.
□ There are no structures on this property.

Name (print clearly): Date:

Phone: ( ) Email:

Property Address: <<Property Address>>
Or Online: qrs.ly/syej73x
Evacuation Zone ID:<<ZoneID>>
Private Access Key:<<AccessKey>>
Option 1 - Respond Online
Option 2 - Respond by Mail
If you would like to request a Home Ignition Zone
assessment, appointments will be available April 1
st
through April 15th. To schedule a Home Ignition Zone
assessment provided by SCCFD or for more information,
please contact the Fire Prevention Division at
[email protected] or call 408.341.4420.

Wildfire Preparedness Workshops, Chipping Programs,
and Resources Specific to your City, Town, or Fire
District
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March 9, 2026
<<Endorsement Line>>
<<Owner Name>>
<<Owner Address>>
<<Owner City>>, <<Owner State>> <<Owner ZIP Code>>

FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF
RE: <<Property Address>> / APN: <<APN>>
Dear Property Owner,
Each year, the Santa Clara County Fire Department partners with your city or town to conduct Wildland Fire Safety Inspections. Wildfires continue to pose a serious threat in California, particularly in the Wildland Urban Interface. Your property is located in a designated Fire Hazard Severity Zone. Self-inspections are a key component in achieving fire resilience for residents and the community. This letter outlines important safety recommendations for your property and highlights resources available to help you prepare, prioritize, and take action.

Defensible space is the necessary buffer created around a structure when combustible vegetation is removed or reduced. The safety recommendations for your property include:

Priority Safety Recommendations (Items A - H)
A. Create 100 feet of defensible space around your home up to the property line. To accomplish this, fuels shall be maintained and spaced in a condition so that a wildfire would be unlikely to ignite a structure (GC § 51182(a)(1)).

B. Maintain the roof of a structure free of leaves, needles, or other vegetative materials (GC § 51182(a)(4)).

C. Trim tree limbs 10 feet from chimneys and stove pipes (GC § 51182(a)(2)).

D.Maintain a tree, shrub, or other plant adjacent to or overhanging a building free of dead or dying wood (GC § 51182(a)(3)).

E. Remove vegetation a minimum of 10 feet around liquefied petroleum gas tanks. Vegetation between 10 feet and 20 feet shall be fire-smart vegetation (CWUIC § 606.3).

F. Store woodpiles a minimum of 30 feet from structures and clear all vegetation within 10 feet of woodpiles (CWUIC § 607.1).

G.Cover chimney outlets or flues with a 1/2” mesh spark arrester (CWUIC § 605.1).

H.Post a clearly visible house address, using at least 4” high numbers, for easy identification (CFC § 505.1). For homes located more than 50 feet from the street, post address numbers at the driveway entrance.

Additional Safety Recommendations
• Create and maintain a 5-foot ember-resistant zone around any structure by removing vegetation that would likely be ignited by embers.
• Trees 18 feet or taller should be limbed up 6 feet from the ground. Provide additional vertical clearance when trees have vegetation beneath them.
• Clear vegetation and other combustible material from underneath decks. Enclose elevated decks with fire-resistive materials.
• Areas within 10 feet on each side of portions of fire apparatus access roads and driveways to be clear of vegetation growth that is not fire-smart.

See QR Code below for resources to help you prepare for wildfire, including upcoming workshops.

Sincerely,
Hector R. Estrada, Assistant Chief
Fire Prevention Division
If you would like to request a Home Ignition Zone
assessment, appointments will be available April 1st
through April 15th. To schedule a Home Ignition Zone
assessment provided by SCCFD or for more
information, please contact the Fire Prevention
Division at [email protected] or call
408.341.4420.

Wildfire Preparedness Workshops, Chipping
Programs, and Resources Specific to your City,
Town, or Fire District
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<<Date>>
<<Owner Name>>
<<Owner Address>>
<<Owner City>>, <<Owner State>> <<Owner ZIP Code>> Re:
<<APN>> / <<Property Address>>
Dear Property Owner,
Collaborative efforts are key to building fire resilient communities. As a property owner in a designated Fire Hazard Severity Zone of the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI), you play a vital role in keeping both your property and neighborhood safe by complying with the minimum fire safe regulations.

Your property was recently inspected by the Santa Clara County Fire Department on <<Inspection date>>. At that time, the following items were identified to bring your property into compliance with the enforced Wildland Fire Safety Regulations. The noted corrections are listed below:
<<Violations>> <<Inspector comments>>
Please ensure that your property satisfies the requirements above, then call or email the Fire Prevention Division of the Santa Clara County Fire Department at 408.341.4420 or [email protected] to schedule a re-inspection. If your property re-inspection is not scheduled within fourteen (14) days after your initial failed inspection, the Santa Clara County Fire Department will conduct an independent re-inspection of your property to determine compliance status.

You have the option to complete the required work yourself or hire your own contractor. For information about brush and weed abatement services, call 408.282.3145 or visit WeedAbatement.SCCgov.org.

All property’s compliance must be verified through re-inspection no later than June 1st, 2026. Properties identified by the Fire Department as being non-compliant with the Wildland Fire Safety Regulations will be referred to your city/town for mandatory abatement. The local authority will make a declaration identifying properties with hazardous conditions and may hold a public hearing. At that time, if your property has been identified as non-compliant, you will be notified.

If you have questions about this notice, please contact the Fire Prevention Division of the Santa Clara County Fire Department at 408.341.4420 or email [email protected].

Thank you for your cooperation in helping to establish a fire resilient community. 277
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A) Disc Work**
PARCEL SIZE: 1st Disc 2nd Disc Total Discs
0-12,500 sq.ft. $291-$425 $149-$180 $440-$605
12,501sq.ft.- 43,560sq.ft. $338-$425 $149-$225 $487-$650 Larger than 1 Acre (cost per acre) $152-$309 $130-$151 $282-$460 ** It is required that parcels be disced twice a year. The cost for the first discing is higher due to additional work normally required during the first discing.

B) HANDWORK
$5.09-$5.73 PER 100 Square Feet (SF)

C) FLAIL MOWING
6 Foot Mower $6.40-10.97 PER 1,000 SF
12 Foot Mower $6.40-10.97 PER 1,000 SF

D) LOADER WORK
$153-$185 PER HOUR

E) DUMP TRUCK
$141-$185 PER HOUR

F) BRUSH WORK
$4.80-$5.47 PER 100 SF

G) DUMP FEE
Cost added to orders with debris removal at 100% of the dump site charge. https://weedabatement.santaclaracounty.gov/frequently-asked-questions 278
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CITY OF CUPERTINO
Agenda Item
26-14990 Agenda Date: 5/19/2026
Agenda #: 5.

Subject: Setting a voluntary campaign expenditure limit of $50,000 for the November 3, 2026 City Council election
Adopt Resolution No. 26-054 setting a voluntary campaign expenditure limit of $50,000 for the November 3, 2026 City Council election
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CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
Meeting: May 19, 2026
Subject
Setting a voluntary campaign expenditure limit of $50,000 for the November 3, 2026 City Council election.

Recommended Action
Adopt Resolution No. 26-___ setting a voluntary campaign expenditure limit of $50,000 for the November 3, 2026 City Council election.

Background
Voluntary expenditure limits enable candidates to spend less time on fundraising and more time communicating issues of importance to voters and constituents.

Beginning in 1997, the City Council established a voluntary campaign expenditure limit of $15,000. Over time, the limit has been periodically adjusted to reflect increases in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and changes in registered voter population. Table 1 below provides the history of voluntary campaign expenditure limits adopted by the City Council since 1997.

As of April 9, 2026, the number of registered voters in the City of Cupertino is 33,716, based on the most recent Report of Registration from the Santa Clara County Registrar of Voters.

A General Municipal Election will be held on November 3, 2026 to fill three City Council seats. The voluntary expenditure limit is not required and has no force of law. Candidates choose whether to accept or decline the limit at the time of filing nomination papers. Candidates who accept the limit receive an asterisk designation next to their name in the Santa Clara County Voter Information Guide.

Campaign expenditures include, but are not limited to, costs associated with mailing or distribution of campaign literature, broadcast, print or electronic media, 280
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digital advertising, telephone outreach, professional services, overhead expenditures, and fundraising activities.

Reasons for Recommendation
The City has historically adjusted the voluntary expenditure limit using Consumer Price Index (CPI) changes applied to the prior Council adopted limit. Applying the CPI-U change from February 2025 to February 2026 (1.0242), the 2022 adopted limit of $34,470 results in an inflation adjusted value of approximately $35,304 for the 2026 election cycle.

While the historical methodology reflects inflationary changes over time, additional consideration was given to current campaign practices and costs, including digital advertising, consulting services, printed materials, signage, and expanded voter outreach methods. Consultant and campaign planning guidance for medium-sized city council elections commonly reflects campaign budgets ranging from approximately $25,000 to $75,000. Within this range, a representative $50,000 campaign includes costs associated with direct mail, digital advertising, campaign consulting, signage, field operations, and outreach activities.

Based on these considerations, the proposed voluntary expenditure limit of $50,000 reflects an updated approach intended to align the City’s voluntary expenditure limit with current campaign conditions and practices.

The draft resolution approves a voluntary campaign expenditure limit of $50,000 for the November 3, 2026 City Council election (Attachment A). Exhibit A reflects the expenditure categories identified in FPPC regulations and provides general guidance regarding expenditures that count toward the voluntary limit. If adopted, candidates may voluntarily agree to limit their campaign expenditures to this amount when filing nomination papers. If the Council does not adopt the draft resolution, no voluntary campaign expenditure limit will apply to candidates for the November 3, 2026 City Council election.

Table 1: History of Voluntary Campaign Expenditure Limit Adoptions (1997–2026)

ELECTION YEAR VOLUNTARY

EXPENDITURE LIMIT
1997 $15,000
1999 $20,000
2001 $20,000
2003 $20,000
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2005 $26,000
2007 $26,500
2008 Special Election $26,500
2009 $28,000
2011 $28,000
2014 $28,000
2016 $33,000
2018 $29,000
2020 $30,000
2022 $34,470
2024 No limit established
2026 (Recommended) $50,000
City Work Program (CWP) Item/Description:

N/A
Council Goal:

Fiscal Strategy
Sustainability Impact
No sustainability impact.

Fiscal Impact
No fiscal impact.

California Environmental Quality Act
No California Environmental Quality Act Impact
_____________________________________
Prepared by: Lauren Sapudar, City Clerk
Reviewed by: Kirsten Squarcia, Deputy City Manager
Approved for Submission by: Tina Kapoor, City Manager
Attachments:

A - Draft Resolution (and Exhibit A)
References
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPIU), Series CUUR0000SA0,” https://data.bls.gov/timeseries/CUUR0000SA0 (accessed 2026).
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• Sutton & Smart Political Consulting, “Political Consultant Cost for Local Elections,” https://suttonsmart.com/political-consulting/political-consultant-cost-for-local-election/ • Local Campaign Pros, “Political Campaign Cost Guide – Medium Cities / Santa Clara County,” https://www.localcampaignpros.com/advice/political-campaign-costs/ • OneCampaign, “Real Cost of Running for Local Office (2026),” https://onecampaign.ai/blog/real-cost-running-for-local-office-2026 283
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RESOLUTION NO. 26-___

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CUPERTINO ADOPTING A VOLUNTARY CAMPAIGN EXPENDITURE LIMIT OF $50,000 FOR THE NOVEMBER 3, 2026 CITY COUNCIL ELECTION
WHEREAS, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 9854 establishing a voluntary campaign expenditure limit for the 1997 City Council election in order to allow candidates and officeholders to spend a lesser proportion of their time on fundraising and a greater proportion of their time communicating issues of importance to voters and constituents.

WHEREAS, the City Council has adopted a voluntary campaign expenditure limit each Cupertino election year since 1997, except for one election year in 2022, the most recent being Resolution No. 22-056 which established a voluntary campaign expenditure limit of $34,470 for the November 2022 election.

WHEREAS, on November 3, 2026, a General Municipal Election will be held to fill vacant Council seats, and the City Council wishes to apply a voluntary campaign expenditure limit of $50,000 to that election.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED:

1. The voluntary expenditure limit for the November 3, 2026 Municipal General Election shall be $50,000.

2. Any non-monetary contribution is deemed to be a campaign expenditure made by the receiving committee on the date of receipt, and it counts against the voluntary expenditure limits established by this resolution if an expenditure for equivalent goods or services would have been a campaign expenditure, as set forth in Exhibit A attached hereto. The amount of the expenditure shall be the fair market value of the contribution on the date of receipt.

3. In the event that any candidate for City Council wishes to abide by the campaign contribution limit requested by the City Council, they may file with the City Clerk a written notice of their intent to limit their campaign expenditures to $50,000 for the 2026 election, and such intent will be indicated in the Santa Clara County Voter Information Guide by an asterisk next to their name.
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4. The cost of printing and translating Candidate Statements shall not be counted against the voluntary expenditure cap of $50,000.

5. The provisions of this resolution have no force of law.

PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Cupertino this 19th day of May, 2026, by the following vote:

Members of the City Council
AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

SIGNED:
________________________
Kitty Moore, Mayor
City of Cupertino
________________________
Date
ATTEST:
________________________
Lauren Sapudar, City Clerk
________________________
Date
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Exhibit A
(Regulations of the Fair Political Practices Commission, Title 2, Division 6, California Code of Regulations)
§ 18540. Voluntary Expenditure Ceilings.
(a) For purposes of Government Code section 85400, campaign expenditures shall be allocated to primary, general, special, or runoff elections as follows:
(1) Expenditures related to mailing or distribution of campaign literature, signs, buttons, bumper stickers and similar items, shall be allocated to the next election following the date(s) on which the expenditures were made or, if the election is held on the date when the expenditures were made, to the election held on that date. (2) Expenditures related to publications in broadcast, print or electronic media shall be allocated to the next election following the date(s) specified in the contract for broadcast, publication, or dissemination or, if the election is held on the date specified for publication, broadcast, or dissemination, to the election held on that date. (3) Expenditures related to telephone banks, including costs of design and operation, costs of installing or renting telephone lines and equipment, toll charges, personnel costs, rental of office space, and associated consultants' fees, shall be allocated to the next election following the date(s) on which the expenditures were made or, if the election is held on the date when the expenditures were made, to the election held on that date. (4) Expenditures on professional services, including fees and costs of campaign consultants and pollsters, shall be allocated to the next election following the date(s) on which the expenditures were made or, if the election is held on the date when the expenditure was made, to the election held on that date. In the event that a contract for professional services allocates specific fees and costs to particular elections, the terms of the contract will govern allocation of expenditures to each election. If a contract provides for a bonus payment should the candidate win a particular election, the bonus payment is an expense of the election whose result triggers the payment obligation. (5) Overhead expenditures, including expenditures related to the lease of office space, payments for utilities, rental or purchase of office equipment and furnishings, miscellaneous supplies, costs of internal copying and printing, monthly telephone charges, personnel costs, and candidate or staff travel expenses, shall be allocated to the next election following the date(s) on which the expenditures were made or, if the election is held on the date when the expenditures were made, to the election held on that date.
(6) Expenditures related to campaign fundraising shall be allocated to the election for which the funds were raised. If fundraising expenditures cannot be assigned in this manner to a particular election, fundraising expenditures shall be allocated to the next 286
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election following the date(s) on which the expenditures were made or, if the election is held on the date when the expense was incurred, to the election held on that date.

Fundraising expenditures for the payment of debts under Government Code section 85316 shall not be counted against the voluntary expenditure ceilings established under Government Code section 85400.
(7) Unless there is a clear indication to the contrary, campaign expenditures not described in subdivisions (a)(1) through (a)(6) of this regulation shall be allocated to the next election following the date(s) on which the expenditures were made or, if the election is held on the date when the expenditure was made, to the election held on that date.

Refunds of any expenditure on goods or services not provided to or used by the campaign shall be credited to the election for which the expenditure would otherwise have been allocated.
(8) The candidate shall maintain records establishing that the candidate's allocation of campaign expenditures under Government Code section 85400 was consistent with the provisions of the Act and of this regulation.
(b) The allocation of expenditures under this regulation shall be reported pursuant to subdivision (c) of 2 Cal. Code Regs. section 18421.4.
(c) A non-monetary contribution is deemed to be a campaign expenditure made by the receiving committee on the date of receipt, which counts against the voluntary expenditure limits prescribed by Government Code section 85400, if an expenditure for equivalent goods or services would have been a campaign expenditure described in subdivision (a) of this regulation. For purposes of Government Code section 85400, the amount of the expenditure shall be the fair market value of the contribution on the date of receipt.
(d) Expenditures not counted against the voluntary expenditure limits prescribed by Government Code section 85400 include, but are not limited to, contributions to other candidates or committees, costs associated with preparing and filing campaign finance reports required under the Act, candidate filing fees, and costs of ballot pamphlet statements.

Note: Authority cited: Section 83112, Government Code. Reference: Sections 82015, 85400 and 85402, Government Code.

HISTORY

1. New section filed 11-26-2001; operative 12-26-2001 (Register 2001, No. 48). For prior history, see Register 92, No. 28.

2. Amendment of subsection (b) filed 9-12-2002 as a change without regulatory effect.

Submitted to OAL for filing pursuant to Fair Political Practices Commission v. Office of Administrative Law, 3 Civil C010924, California Court of Appeal, Third Appellate District, nonpublished decision, April 27, 1992 (FPPC regulations only subject to 1974 287
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