CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
APRIL 28, 2026 – 3:00 P.M.
COUNCIL CHAMBERS – 505 FOREST AVENUE, LAGUNA BEACH, CA 92651 STUDY SESSION
MARK ORGILL, Mayor
HALLIE JONES, Mayor Pro Tem
SUE KEMPF, Councilmember
ALEX ROUNAGHI, Councilmember
BOB WHALEN, Councilmember
DAVE KIFF, City Manager
MEGAN GARIBALDI, City Attorney
LAURA PARISI, City Treasurer
ANN MARIE McKAY, City Clerk
LEVINE ACT DISCLOSURE: Pursuant to the Levine Act (Govt Code Section 84308), any party to a permit, license, contract, or other entitlement before the City Council is required to disclose on the record any campaign contribution, including aggregated contributions, of more than $500 commencing on January 1, 2025, made by the party or the party’s agents within the preceding 12 months to any City official.
Participants and agents are requested to make this disclosure as well. The disclosure should be made when the agenda item is called and must include the name of the party, participant, or agent, and any other person making the contribution, the name of the recipient, the amount of the contribution, and the date the contribution was made. Council Members are also required to make such disclosures and recuse themselves.
Public Participation: You may submit comments in person on any agenda item or any item not on the agenda. You may also submit written comments on any agenda item or on any item not on the agenda via mail to the City Clerk at 505 Forest Avenue, Laguna Beach, CA. 92651 or by email to [email protected]. In order to allow sufficient time for members of the City Council and staff to review and consider your written comments, written comments will be accepted for consideration up until the close of business (i.e., 5:30 p.m.) on the business day before the date on which this public meeting is scheduled. Written comments WILL NOT be read aloud during the City Council Meeting. Please note that written comments are posted on the City’s website, so do not include any personal information you do not want posted on the web. Any comments received after the deadline for submittal may not become part of the public record for that meeting. For comments submitted on a topic not on the agenda, please indicate that you would like your comments included in the official record for this meeting. 1 of 42
[email protected]. In order to allow sufficient time for members of the City Council and staff to review and consider your written comments, written comments will be accepted for consideration up until the close of business (i.e., 5:30 p.m.) on the business day before the date on which this public meeting is scheduled. Written comments WILL NOT be read aloud during the City Council Meeting. Please note that written comments are posted on the City’s website, so do not include any personal information you do not want posted on the web. Any comments received after the deadline for submittal may not become part of the public record for that meeting. For comments submitted on a topic not on the agenda, please indicate that you would like your comments included in the official record for this meeting.
Courtesy Virtual Broadcast: Please take notice that the City also plans to broadcast the meeting via the below listed mediums. These virtual broadcast mediums are also provided as a courtesy only and are not guaranteed to be technically feasible or uninterrupted. Thus, in order to guarantee livetime viewing, members of the public are encouraged to attend in person.
1. Online on the City of Laguna website: www.lagunabeachcity.net/meetings
2. Cox cable channel 852
3. Online on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQsj8cEM7IvTH6p4uf3NUzQ STUDY SESSION
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A. ROLL CALL 3:00 p.m.
B. STUDY SESSION.
1. POLICY CONSIDERATIONS FOR DEVELOPMENT IN THE VERY HIGH FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONE
Recommendations:
1. Provide policy direction regarding development within the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone and direct staff to return at a future Council meeting with a proposed policy and ordinance documents to carry out the City Council’s direction; and
2. Determine that the action is not a project under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15378, as the action consists of receiving information and providing policy direction and does not authorize any physical change to the environment.
C. ADJOURNMENT. The Laguna Beach City Council will adjourn to its Closed Session, then to its Regular Meeting at 5:00 pm:
LAGUNA BEACH CITY HALL
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
505 FOREST AVENUE, LAGUNA BEACH, CA
ADA ACCOMMODATIONS
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Pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons with a disability who require a disabilityrelated modification or accommodation in order to participate in a meeting, including auxiliary aids or services, may request such modification or accommodation from the City Clerk at (949) 4970705 (telephone) or (949) 2 of 42
ADA ACCOMMODATIONS
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Pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons with a disability who require a disabilityrelated modification or accommodation in order to participate in a meeting, including auxiliary aids or services, may request such modification or accommodation from the City Clerk at (949) 4970705 (telephone) or (949) 4970771 (facsimile). Notification 48 hours prior to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to assure accessibility to the meeting.
COMPLIANCE WITH GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54957.5
********************************************************* Materials related to an item on this Agenda submitted to the City Council after distribution of the agenda packets are available for public inspection in the City Clerk's Office at 505 Forest Avenue, Laguna Beach, California, during normal business hours. 3 of 42
STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date:
April 28, 2026
STUDY SESSION
1 SUBJECT: POLICY CONSIDERATIONS FOR DEVELOPMENT IN THE VERY HIGH FIRE
HAZARD SEVERITY ZONE
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council:
1. Provide policy direction regarding development within the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone and direct staff to return at a future Council meeting with a proposed policy and ordinance documents to carry out the City Council’s direction; and
2. Determine that the action is not a project under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15378, as the action consists of receiving information and providing policy direction and does not authorize any physical change to the environment.
SUMMARY OF THE MATTER
Staff is seeking policy direction regarding development within the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (“VHFHSZ”). Based on the direction received, staff will return at a future Council meeting with the appropriate policy and ordinance documents for City Council review and adoption.
DISCUSSION
The recent Palisades and Eaton Fires highlight the risks faced by many communities throughout Southern California and serve as a reminder of the importance of regularly evaluating and updating the City’s policies to anticipate and mitigate potential risks. Doing so helps ensure the City is planning proactively, remaining prepared, and adapting to current trends and best practices. Approximately 87% of the City falls within the VHFHSZ, as defined by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), which is the highest wildfire risk classification.1 While much of this land area coincides with the City’s surrounding open space “green belt,” approximately 65% of the City’s buildable property is within the VHFHSZ. In light of this fact, and recognizing the dynamic and evolving risks that wildfires present to our community, staff has evaluated the City’s existing policies and regulations and identified opportunities for improvement.
Staff has organized its analysis and recommendations into four key areas: Legal, Planning, Fire, and Public Works.
Legal
Current Process. Under the City’s Municipal Code, the City adopts the 2025 California Fire Code, including Chapters 1-80 and Appendix Chapter 4, and Appendices B, BB, C, CC, D, H, and K, by reference with certain local amendments. (See LBMC Section 15.01.010.) Accordingly, a development application must comply with the Fire Code or, if not, request an Alternative Materials and Methods (AM&M), which is considered by the fire official and approved if it can be demonstrated that the AM&M is as effective in 1 The City’s interactive GIS map viewer can be accessed through the following web link. To view the extent of the VHFHSZ within the City, click “Layers” in the left-hand window pane, expand the menu for “Fire” by clicking the plus icon to the left, and click the “Fire Hazard Severity Zones” checkbox.
https://gis.lagunabeachcity.net/Html5Viewer/index.html?viewer=LagunaBeachPublicGIS 1 of 39
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addressing fire risks as the Fire Code requirement. As a local amendment, under the City’s Municipal Code, the City requires a certain fire protection plan when developing in the VHFHSZ. (See LBMC Section
14.70.045.) Below are the City’s requirements for a fire protection plan, which requires compliance with the 2019 City of Laguna Beach Fire Department Landscape/Fuel Modification Standards and Maintenance Program document (Attachment 1):
SECTION 602—FIRE PROTECTION PLANS
602.1 General.
The code official is authorized to require the owner or owner’s authorized agent to provide a fire protection plan. The fire protection plan shall be prepared to determine the acceptability of fire protection and life safety measures designed to mitigate wildfire hazards presented for the property under consideration.
The fire protection plan shall be prepared by a registered design professional, qualified landscape architect, qualified fire safety specialist or similar specialist acceptable to the code official and shall analyze the wildfire risk of the building, project, premises or region to recommend necessary changes.
The code official is authorized to require a preliminary fire protection plan prior to the submission of a final fire protection plan.
602.2 Contents
The Fire Protection Plan shall contain the requirements set forth in the 2019 City of Laguna Beach Fire Department Landscape/Fuel Modification Standards and Maintenance Program document as amended from time to time by City Council and pursuant to Resolutions 89.104, 1640, and 1641.
Future Consideration. The City Council may consider amendments by City Council resolution to amend 2019 City of Laguna Beach Fire Department Landscape/Fuel Modification Standards and Maintenance Program document to address its policy. The City Council may also consider imposing conditions of approval on an ad hoc basis (per project) or by legislative action (ordinance with general applicability) to require land dedications to construct public improvements or traffic safety, subject to findings. Indeed, a city is authorized, as relevant here, to (1) impose a land dedication3 requirement to construct public improvements, including but not limited to, sidewalk and sewer improvements; and (2) impose a land dedication4 requirement as a condition of approval of a specific housing development project for traffic safety features, if the city makes a finding, specific to the housing development project and supported by substantial evidence, that the land dedication requirement is necessary to preserve the health, safety, and 3 “Land dedication” means a physical exaction of property for public use without compensation, whether imposed on an ad hoc or legislative basis, that is charged by a local agency to the applicant in connection with approval of a development project for the purpose of defraying all or a portion of the cost of public facilities related to the development project. (Gov. Code Section 66005.1(d)(2).) 4 Same definition as above.
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welfare of the public, including pedestrians, cyclists, and children.7 In analyzing conditions of approval, whether imposed on an ad hoc basis or legislative basis, a city must consider the nexus and rough proportionality of the condition. First, permit conditions must have an “essential nexus” to the city’s landuse interest. The nexus requirement ensures that the city is acting to further its stated purpose and not leveraging its permitting authority to exact private property without paying for it. Second, permit conditions must have “rough proportionality” to the development’s impact on the land-use interest. A permit condition that requires a landowner to give up more than is necessary to mitigate harms resulting from new development has the same potential for abuse as a condition that is unrelated to that purpose. Additionally, among other actions, the City Council may consider changes to existing City policies established through the Planning Division of the Community Development Department, Fire Department, and Public Works Department, as discussed in more detail below.
Planning
The City of Laguna Beach is largely built out. As a result, the vast majority of development consists of infill redevelopment, remodels, and additions to existing structures, with a much smaller amount involving the development of vacant parcels. In both cases, the zoning entitlement review process is the City’s opportunity to ensure that development is constructed in compliance with current local and state regulations and is consistent with best safety practices. While additional reviews for Fire Code compliance will occur during the building permit application process that follows the zoning entitlement, many requirements are checked and confirmed during the zoning process, particularly those that are fundamental to site planning, such as firefighter path-of-travel requirements around the perimeter of structures and when applicable, fire apparatus access requirements.
While many aspects of a project are reviewed as part of the entitlement process, fire access and safety remain among the most critical considerations. Because development patterns throughout the City evolved organically and are often irregular, project sites have historically been evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
By contrast, in many surrounding communities characterized by tract development, life safety issues can often be addressed more comprehensively at the master planning level. Laguna Beach also consists of many small and distinct neighborhoods, each with its own development history shaped by the period in which it was generally built and by its particular physical setting . Those conditions vary considerably across the city, including differences in topography, roadway design, and neighborhood layout. In staff’s view, this process requires some updating to better address the cumulative fire safety impacts associated with development throughout the City.
For example, it is not uncommon for a project, such as a single-family home, to request AM&M’s, which allow project modifications that differ from standard fire safety code requirements while still ensuring the safety of the property. When considered individually, staff is often able to support these requests because the alternative fire protection measures provided are equally effective.
However, staff’s concern, and the reason policy direction is being requested, is that this approach has led to a “patchwork” of fire mitigation measures that, while providing project-specific safety benefits, do not 7 Gov. Code Section 66005.1(c)(2).
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address the City’s broader fire protection needs on a citywide basis. For this reason, staff recommends shifting away from the use of AM&Ms except in very limited and unique circumstances, and instead establishing a more prescriptive and objective set of fire safety criteria.
This shift in approach would help ensure that, as projects are incrementally developed over time, the City can achieve a framework for broader improvements, such as roadway widening to improve fire access.
Additional information regarding these access requirements is provided under the Fire and Public Works sections below.
Should the Council wish to move forward with some or all of staff’s policy recommendations, it will be important to establish clear triggers for when the new standards would apply. For example, staff does not recommend applying these requirements to minor improvements or additions, as it is important for community members to be able to maintain and reinvest in their homes. However, when a property undergoes what is defined as a major remodel, involving more than 50 percent demolition or more than 50 percent expansion,9 or when a new home is constructed, staff recommends that those circumstances trigger the Fire and Public Works standards outlined below.
Fire
Staff recommends establishing prescriptive access standards that do not allow for flexibility or modification through Alternative Means and Methods, including requirements for roadway width, maximum grades, and the provision of adequate turnarounds. These elements are fundamental to ensuring reliable emergency access and evacuation capabilities and are therefore not well-suited for case-by-case adjustments.
Maintaining consistent, objective standards for these critical access components is essential to establishing a baseline level of fire and life safety throughout the community. While flexibility may be appropriate for certain design elements, access-related requirements should not include the same flexibility as they directly impact emergency response times, firefighter safety, and the ability of residents to evacuate during a wildfire event. As such, deviations from these standards can introduce cumulative risks when considered across the broader development pattern of the City.
By applying uniform requirements moving forward, the City can incrementally improve its overall emergency access network as properties are redeveloped over time. This approach ensures that individual projects contribute to a more cohesive and resilient system, rather than perpetuating inconsistent conditions that may compromise public safety during emergency situations.
To improve community-wide wildfire resilience and ensure safe, reliable emergency response, the Fire Department recommends enforcing objective, prescriptive access and operational standards for development within the VHFHSZ, consistent with the 2025 California Fire Code Appendix D. 9 Refer to the Major Remodel Interpretation handout for the methodologies used to determine when a project reaches the threshold of a major remodel. The handout can be accessed through the following web link. https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/home/showpublisheddocument/23171/638901125715200000 4 of 39
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Fire Apparatus Access Road Width
Minimum 20-foot unobstructed width shall be maintained at all times. Width shall be continuous along the entire access route with no reductions or pinch points. No deviations recommended: width reductions restrict fire apparatus access, limit staging capability, and create conflicts with civilian evacuation. Further, cumulative reductions degrade system-wide access.
Roadway Grade (Slope)
Maximum roadway grade shall not exceed 10 percent.
Grade shall be consistent with smooth transitions.
No deviations recommended: increased grades reduce apparatus performance, braking ability, and safety, especially when combined with other constraints.
Turning Radius / Apparatus Maneuvering
Access roads shall support fire apparatus turning movements without multi-point maneuvers. Turning geometry shall be demonstrated through a turning analysis. No deviations recommended: multi-point turning delays response and creates operational conflicts.
Dead-End Roads and Turnarounds (CFC Appendix D §D103.1) Dead-end roads over 150 feet shall provide an approved turnaround. Cul-de-sac: Minimum 96-foot diameter.
Hammerhead (T-turn): Minimum 120-feet.
T-Turn: Minimum 60-foot legs.
Turnarounds must allow the apparatus to exit without reversing greater than 150 feet without meandering (obstructions).
No deviations recommended: non-compliant turnarounds increase entrapment risk and delay emergency response.
Engine Staging and Operational Positioning
• A compliant fire apparatus staging location shall be provided on an approved access road. • Staging areas shall be located on a relatively flat surface to allow safe apparatus positioning, stabilization, and hose deployment.
• Staging shall provide direct and reasonable access to the structure, without requiring firefighters to traverse excessive horizontal distances or steep slopes. • Site design shall ensure firefighters are not required to repeatedly travel up and down steep terrain to transport hose packs, tools, or rescue equipment.
• The distance between the fire apparatus and the structure shall be close enough to allow efficient deployment of equipment and sustained operations without excessive physical strain on personnel. • Staging locations shall allow apparatus to:
o Fully position without blocking access routes
o Deploy hose lines directly
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o Exit the site without multi-point maneuvers
• No deviations recommended:
inadequate or improperly located staging areas increase response time, reduce operational effectiveness, and create unsafe working conditions. Requiring firefighters to operate over steep terrain or excessive distances leads to fatigue prior to fire attack, delays suppression efforts, and reduces overall incident effectiveness. These conditions present a direct life-safety risk to both firefighters and occupants.
Hose Pull and Firefighter Access
Maximum hose pull distance shall not exceed 150 feet. Access paths must be all-weather, non-combustible, and of adequate width and slope. No deviations recommended: extended distances delay suppression and increase firefighter fatigue.
Conclusion
These requirements function as an integrated system. Modifications to any single component creates cascading impacts on emergency response and evacuation. For this reason, staff does not recommend the use of Alternative Means and Methods for these core access features.
Public Works
The City’s streets and rights-of-way play a critical role in providing fire access to properties throughout the City, as well as evacuation routes for residents. Given the importance of maintaining a safe and functional circulation system to the greatest extent feasible within a largely built-out community, staff recommends that when a project involves a major remodel or the construction of a new home, the roadway adjacent to the property, and/or the roadway providing the most immediate access to the property that is under the applicant’s control, be improved to City standards, be developed to facilitate future expansion within the right of way, and/or dedicate right of ways for future improvements. This approach is intended to ensure that, over time, cumulative street frontage improvements associated with individual projects can be consolidated into coordinated roadway widening and safety improvement efforts.
It is also the City’s current practice to issue Revocable Encroachment Permits (REPs), which allow limited improvements within the public right-of-way. In light of the need to take a more cumulative and long-term approach to roadway safety and to preserve opportunities for future widening projects, staff recommends that future REPs be limited to landscaping only. In addition, in the case of major remodels, if a property contains an existing REP, any improvements within the right-of-way beyond incidental landscaping should be removed as part of the project.
The City’s standard roadway width for a hillside local street is 20’ per Public Works Standard Plan 101.
Below is a depiction of what the standard roadway section should look like:
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In several cases, the existing roadway limits the feasibility for a single property to construct a fully standard roadway in front of their property. For example, it may not be feasible to construct sidewalk, curb, and gutter in front of a single property if it does not exist on the rest of the street; however, it is recommended that in all cases the roadway be widened to provide the minimum 10’ of paved roadway from the centerline to the property. It is recommended that applicants be conditioned to dedicate right of way in cases where the right of way is less than 20’ from the centerline to the property line.
FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
The recommended action has no financial impact to the budget.
ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
The recommended action consists of receiving information and providing policy direction and does not authorize any physical change to the environment and therefore does not constitute a “project” within the meaning of the California Environmental Quality Act. (Public Resources Code Section 21065; 14 CCR Section 15378.). Any future action to adopt a policy, rule, or regulation will include compliance with CEQA.
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ATTACHMENTS
1. 2019 Landscape/Fuel Modification Standards and Maintenance Program (Pgs. 9-32) Submitted By: Matthew Schneider Approved: Gavin Curran, for Matthew Schneider, Director of
Community Development
Dave Kiff, City Manager
Report Prepared By: Coordinated With:
Matthew Schneider, Director of Community
Development
Anthony Viera, Deputy Director of Community
Development
Jane Abzug, Assistant City Attorney
Robert Montaghami, Fire Marshal
Thomas Perez, City Engineer
Gabe Linares, Deputy Director of Community
Development
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Exhibit B
City of Laguna Beach
Fire Department
Landscape/Fuel
Modification Standards
and
Maintenance Program
505 FOREST AVE LAGUNA BEACH, CA 92651 TEL (949) 497-0700 FAX (949) 497-0784 Attachment 1
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Laguna Beach Fire Department Page 1 of 23
Landscape/Fuel Modification Standards and Maintenance
Rev. 12/2019
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Purpose ............................................................................................................................................. 2 Scope ................................................................................................................................................. 2 Submittal Requirements ................................................................................................................. 3 Landscape/Fuel Modification Plans ............................................................................................ 3 LBFD Plant Palette Information.................................................................................................. 4 Zone A—Setback Irrigated Zone ................................................................................................ 5 Zone B—Irrigated Zone .............................................................................................................. 6 Zones C & D—Thinning Zones—Non-Irrigated ........................................................................ 7 Off-Site Fuel Modification Requirements ................................................................................... 8 Non-Compliant Properties ........................................................................................................... 8 Fuel Modification Plan Revisions…………………………………………….………………..8 Fuel Modification Implementation & Required Inspections ....................................................... 9 Fees ............................................................................................................................................ 10 Glossary ..................................................................................................................................... 10 Attachments
1 Fuel Modification Plan Submittal Checklist ....................................................................... 13 2 Fuel Modification Configuration Options ........................................................................... 14 3 Incline Measurement for Selected Slopes ........................................................................... 15 4 Zone Marker Details ............................................................................................................ 16 5 Sample CC&R Maintenance Language .............................................................................. 17 6 Tree and Shrub Pruning and Spacing ................................................................................. 19 7 Undesirable Plants Species (Target Species) ...................................................................... 20 10 10 of 39
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Landscape/Fuel Modification Standards and Maintenance
Rev. 12/2019
Landscape/Fuel Modification Standards and
Maintenance
PURPOSE
The purpose of these standards is to provide information on how landscape and fuel modification zones are to be integrated, designed, installed, and maintained in order to meet safety requirements. The many variables involved with landscape and fuel modification make specific, uniform regulations impractical. The Laguna Beach Fire Department (LBFD) will not require supporting data if these standards are followed to the satisfaction of the LBFD. Compliance with these standards does not guarantee that homeowner’s insurance may be secured. Furthermore, compliance with these standards may not prevent the loss of life and or real and personal property due to fire.
SCOPE
A fuel modification zone is an area of land where combustible vegetation is removed and/or modified and partially or totally replaced with more adequately spaced, drought-tolerant, fireresistant plants in order to provide a reasonable level of protection to structures from a wildland fire. Development contiguous to or within an undeveloped vegetated area (wildland urban interface) requires modification of natural vegetation at the urban interface and an integrated landscape plan. Parcels meeting this profile are designated “FM” in the City’s GIS software (accessible on the City website).
The Landscape/Fuel Modification Standards are completely applicable, per the Laguna Beach Municipal Code, where the project meets the following conditions:
A. There is a proposed new structure, and the parcel is designated “FM” in the City’s GIS.
B. Where a “Major Remodel”, as defined by municipal code, is being proposed to an existing structure, and the parcel is designated “FM”.
The Landscape/Fuel Modification Standards are applicable for all vegetation up to 100 feet from any structure in every direction, but not to extend off property, per the Laguna Beach Municipal Code and Government Code Section 51182, where the project meets the following conditions:
A. There is a proposed new structure, the parcel is not designated “FM”, but is within the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (as mapped by CAL Fire). The CAL Fire map is accessible on the LBFD website.
B. There is a proposed “Major Remodel” to an existing structure, the parcel is not designated “FM”, but is within the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (as mapped by CAL Fire). 11 11 of 39
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Landscape/Fuel Modification Standards and Maintenance
Rev. 12/2019
An integrated landscape and fuel modification plan varies in complexity and is dependent upon the type, quantity, and spacing of vegetation. Other important factors include topography, degree/type of exposure, local weather conditions, and the construction, design, and placement of structures. A typical landscape/fuel modification installation consists of a 20-foot setback zone (Zone A), a minimum 50-foot zone typically irrigated (Zone B), with an additional 125-foot minimum of vegetation thinning zones (Zones C and D). The minimum width of a fuel modification area is 195 feet and in some cases the width increases due to type of terrain and/or type of vegetation. The exception is when a structure is at the bottom of a slope. In that upslope situation, the maximum fuel modification zone width required is 150 feet as measured from the wildland exposed side of the building.
The necessity of implementing a landscape/fuel modification plan does not release the owner from the responsibility to mitigate the impact of such modifications (e.g., erosion control, endangered species, etc.).
SUBMITTAL REQUIREMENTS
1. Landscape/Fuel Modification Plans
Landscape/fuel modification plans show the area and location of all hardscape/softscape improvements and fuel modification necessary to achieve the minimum acceptable level of risk to structures from combustible vegetation. Submit three sets of plans prepared by a licensed landscape architect or other design professional with equivalent credentials to the City of Laguna Beach Community Development Department for review. One set will be routed internally to the Fire Department for review.
The following shall be included on the fuel modification plan (also refer to Attachment 1):
A. Identify the design of the proposed development, showing all property lines, contour lines, and the proposed location of all new and existing structures including all hardscape/softscape improvements and the fuel modification area.
B. Delineation of each zone (setback, irrigated, and thinning) with a general description of each zone’s dimensions and character; i.e., 50-foot – 70-foot Zone B, with existing vegetation removed, irrigated, and planted with adequately spaced plant material that is more drought-tolerant and fire-resistant (See Attachment 2).
C. Location and detail of permanent zone markers (See Attachment 4).
D. Identify the removal of undesirable plant species in accordance with the LBFD Fire Prone Plant Species List (See Attachment 7).
E. Plant palette to be installed in accordance with approved guidelines. Include a plant matrix for all trees, tree-form shrubs, shrubs, and shrub-like plants in irrigated zones 12 12 of 39
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Landscape/Fuel Modification Standards and Maintenance
Rev. 12/2019
showing the maximum height and width of mature plants and proposed spacing. NOTE:
Care should be taken to select plants that provide limited habitant to rats and other rodents that may detract from the health and safety of residents. Contact Orange County Vector Control for further information.
F. Photographs of the area which show the type of vegetation that currently exists, including height and density, and the topography of the site.
G. Description of the methods to be used for vegetation removal, i.e., mechanical or manual.
H. Location of emergency and maintenance access easements within every 500 lineal feet of the fuel modification area. Access easements shall have a minimum 10-foot width; alternatively, 5-foot wide easements provided every 250 feet may be acceptable. Gates, if installed within the easement, shall be a minimum of 36 inches wide. The easements shall be maintained free of vegetation or any structures greater than 5 inches in height.
I. General description of what exists 300 feet beyond the development property lines in all directions; i.e., reserve lands, structures, natural vegetation, roads, parks, etc. (Note:
LBFD may require additional information on a project-specific basis).
J. Identify any proposed off-site fuel modification areas and provide appropriate legal agreements with adjacent property owners.
K. Irrigation plans and specifications, as requested.
L. All applicable maintenance requirements and assignment of responsibility (See Section 6).
M. Tract or project conditions, CC&R and/or deed restrictions relative to fuel modifications (See Attachment 5).
N. The integrated landscape/fuel modification plan shall be reviewed by LBFD and approved by the Design Review Board (DRB) prior to issuance of the building permit.
O. For large developments, fuel modification zones (especially zones B, C, and D) should be located within common lettered lots owned and maintained by associations representing common ownership; e.g., homeowners’ associations. The integrity and longevity of the fuel modification zones shall be maintained with sufficient tract/project conditions and CC&Rs to specifically identify the restrictions within the fuel modification areas.
Likewise, when fuel modification zones are located on private property, deed restrictions are required to specifically identify the restrictions on any portion of the property subject to fuel modification. (See Sections 6 and 8 and Attachments 2 and 5).
2. LBFD Plant Palette Information
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Landscape/Fuel Modification Standards and Maintenance
Rev. 12/2019
The plant palette must be submitted containing both the botanical and common names of all plant materials that are to be used. In the irrigated zone areas (which commonly serve as a screening buffer between development and open space/park land), plants must be fire resistant and drought-tolerant. Plant materials used outside of the irrigated zones must also be fire resistant and drought tolerant. There is no such thing as a plant that will not burn, so the term fire resistant may be misleading. All plants will burn given sufficient heat and low moisture content. Vegetative fire resistance may be enhanced through adequate irrigation. Note: All plants in Zones A-D shall be specified for appropriate fuel modification zones.
The undesirable plant (target) species approved by LBFD and various resource agencies responsible for environmental protection are provided in Attachment 7. Specific planting criteria are included for various plant materials. If alternate plant materials are proposed, the landscape architect shall provide a photograph, as well as data on the fire resistive characteristics and proposed uses (zones, number, spacing, etc.) and LBFD will make a caseby-case determination as to acceptability of the proposed material. The proposed plant must be spaced based on size and characteristics. If the plant materials are proposed to be planted within 300 feet of reserve lands (except plants on the interior of the tract), concurrence from the applicable following agencies would be required: US Fish and Wildlife Service, California Department of Parks and Recreation, The Nature Conservancy, the Department of Fish and Wildlife, Orange County Public Facilities and Resource Department, and the Orange County Vector Control District. If the proposed plants have received previous resource agency approval, no concurrence letter will be required.
3. Zone A – Setback Irrigated Zone (See Attachments 2 & 3) The purpose of the setback zone is to provide a defensible space for fire suppression forces and to protect structures from radiant and convective heat. No combustible construction shall be allowed within the 20-foot setback zone (Zone A). In no case shall Zone A be less than 20-foot minimum. This measurement shall be made horizontally from the point of the structure closest to Zone A. This zone is located between Zone B and the structure and extends in all directions (360ͦ) surrounding the structure.
Zone A – Specific Requirements
A. Automatic irrigation systems to maintain healthy vegetation with high moisture content.
B. Irrigation maintained outside the drip line of native oak trees.
C. Pruning of foliage to reduce fuel load, vertical continuity, and removal of plant litter and dead wood.
D. Complete removal of fire prone plant species (See Attachment 7), minimal allowance for retention of selected native vegetation.
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E. Trees and tree form shrub species are not allowed within 10 feet of combustible structures (measured from the edge of a full growth crown).
F. Trees and tree form shrub species are not allowed to extend beyond the property line (measured from the edge of a full growth crown).
G. Tree and tree from shrub species are not allowed within 10 feet of adjacent tree species as measured from the edge of a full growth crown (see Attachment 6).
H. Special consideration should be given for rare and endangered species, geologic hazards, tree ordinances, or other conflicting restrictions.
I. Maintenance including ongoing removal and/or thinning of undesirable combustible vegetation, replacement of dead/dying fire resistant plantings, maintenance of the operations integrity and programming of the irrigation system, regular trimming to prevent ladder fuels.
J. A minimum of 36” of horizontal clearance and unlimited vertical clearance around the exterior of the structure (360ͦ) shall be provided for Firefighter access Firefighter access shall be made without the need for special tools (ladders) or ability and have permanent improvements installed when ascending or descending form street level (e.g., stairs).
K. No combustible construction shall be allowed in Zone A.
L. No permanent or portable barbeques/grills, fire pits, fireplaces or other flame generating device shall be permitted within 30’ of non-fire resistive plants/vegetation.
M. No vines shall be permitted on combustible structures (e.g., Type V non-rated structure).
4. Zone B – Irrigated Zone
This portion of landscape/fuel modification should be irrigated and planted with droughttolerant, deep-rooted, moisture retentive plants. The plans must delineate that portion of the fuel modification area that will be permanently irrigated. Plant material selection, irrigation, system design, and the landscape maintenance management plan shall sensitively address water conservation practices and include methods of erosion control to protect against slope failure. All irrigation shall be kept a minimum of 20 feet from the drip line of any existing native Quercus (oak) species. This irrigated zone is 50 feet to 75 feet in width. Zone B shall be cleared of all undesirable plant species, irrigated, and planted with plants from the approved LBFD or OCFA Plant List. Exceptions to save desirable species may be submitted for approval by the Fire Chief on a site-specific basis. As in Zone A, combustible construction (i.e., gazebos, trellis, shade covers, etc.) is not allowed in Zone B.
Zone B – Specific Requirements
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A. Groundcover shall be maintained at a height not to exceed 18 inches.
B. In order to maintain proper coverage, native grasses should be allowed to go to seed.
Native grasses shall be cut after annual seeding. Cut heights should not exceed 8 inches.
C. Irrigation shall be designed to supplement native vegetation and establish and maintain planted natives and ornamentals.
D. Planting will be in accordance with planting guidelines and spacing standards established in this guideline (See Attachments 6 and 7).
E. In Zone B sensitive and/or protected plant species shall be identified on the landscape/fuel modification plans and dealt with per the City’s Open Space/Conservation Plan.
F. Tree and tree-form shrub pruning and spacing will be in conformance with Attachment 6.
Tree form shrubs are defined as shrubs that naturally exceed 4 feet in height.
G. Shrubs shall be spaced such that they do not create an excessive fuel mass and can be maintained in accordance with specified spacing as indicated on the plan.
H. Special consideration should be given for rare and endangered species, geological hazards, tree submitted for project approval, upon further review.
I. Removal of undesirable plant species (see Attachment 7).
5. Zones C & D – Thinning Zones – Non-Irrigated
Zone C is 50 to 75 feet in width and requires 50% thinning and removal of all dead and dying vegetation and undesirable species. Zone D is 75 to 100 feet in width and requires 30% thinning with removal of all dead and dying vegetation and undesirable species. Thinning zones are utilized to reduce the fuel load of wildland area adjacent to urban developments, thereby reducing the radiant and convective heat of wildland fires. Thinning zones are located adjacent to the irrigated zone and can extend 125 feet or more into wildland areas. All dead and dying vegetation shall also be removed from the thinning zones. Additionally, undesirable plant species shall be removed from the thinning zones due to their susceptibility to wildland fire. As in Zones A and B, combustible construction (i.e., gazebos, trellis’s, shade covers, etc.) is not allowed in Zones C and D.
Zone C and D – Specific Requirements
A. Removal of all dead and dying vegetation, all fine fuels reduced to a maximum of 8-12 inches in height.
B. In order to maintain proper coverage, native grasses shall be allowed to go to seed. Native grasses shall be cut after annual seeding. Cut heights shall not exceed 8 inches. 16 16 of 39
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C. Special consideration will be given for rare and endangered species, geologic hazards, tree ordinances, or other conflicting restrictions as identified in the environmental documents submitted for project approval review.
D. Reduce fuel loading by reducing the fuel in each remaining shrub or tree without a substantial decrease in the canopy cover or removal of tree holding root systems.
E. In Zones C and D, sensitive and/or protected plant species shall be identified on the fuel modification plans and tagged in the field for further disposition.
F. Tree and tree-form shrub pruning and spacing will be in conformance with Attachment 6.
Tree form shrubs are defined as shrubs that naturally exceed four feet in height.
G. Shrubs less than 4 feet in height shall be spaced such that they do not create an excessive fuel mass and can be maintained in accordance with specified spacing as indicated on the plan.
H. Maintain sufficient cover to prevent erosion without requiring planting.
6. Off-Site Fuel Modification Requirements
Due to the variable and sometimes considerable amount of land necessary for fuel modification, development proposals often include a request to have the required fuel modification zones extend onto adjacent properties. However, off site fuel modification is not recommended due to problems inherent with enforcement of regulations on adjacent property and the potential for confusion regarding responsibility for fuel modification on areas outside of legal ownership. Proper on-site modification design should determine where development can safely be located and should be an integral part of the development proposal.
Should off-site fuel modification be deemed a necessity, appropriate legally recorded instruments must be established that clearly state the responsibilities and rights of the parties involved relative to the establishment and maintenance of the fuel modification area.
Appropriate recorded documents must include a recorded agreement between all parties and a grant of easement for the establishment and maintenance of the fuel modification area. It should be understood that the allowance of off-site fuel modification by an adjacent property owner may affect the rights and/or use of the off-site property. All agreements for any off-site fuel modifications shall be integrated into fuel modification plans with a letter from adjoining property owner giving rights to maintain fuels.
The City of Laguna Beach may grant fuel modification easements on city property to property owners in need of such agreements to complete the requirements of their fuel modification plan. City financed/maintained fuel modification programs (i.e. goat grazing, hand crews) may not be utilized as a component of a fuel modification plan. The City of Laguna Beach shall not guarantee the continuation of current or future City sponsored fuel modification programs. Property owners shall remain responsible for maintaining their fuel modification plan regardless of the status of the City financed/maintained fuel modification programs. 17 17 of 39
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7. Non-Compliant Properties
If the requirements of these guidelines cannot be met for any reason, documentation supporting the reason(s) shall be required at plan submittal. Alternate materials and methods may be considered in lieu of a complete landscape/fuel modification plan at the discretion of the Fire Chief and DRB. A Fire Protection Plan (CFC Section 4902) shall be submitted by a recognized fire protection engineer or individual with similar qualifications (subject to the Fire Chief’s approval) when alternate materials and methods are proposed to meet the requirements of this guideline.
8. Fuel Modification Plan Revisions
Revisions to previously approved fuel modification plans shall follow procedures as established by the agency having jurisdiction. Note: Revisions to plans will not be reviewed without a copy of the original stamped LBFD approved plan for reference.
9. Fuel Modification Implementation & Required Inspections This following information shall be placed on precise fuel modification plans, verbatim:
A. Prior to Issuance of Utility Release: The landscape and fuel modification zones adjacent to structures must be installed, irrigated, and inspected This includes physical installation of features identified in the approved landscape/fuel modification plan (including, but not limited to, hardscape, softscape, plant establishment, thinning, irrigation, zone markers, access easements, etc). An LBFD Fire Inspector or designee will provide written approval to the Building Division after completion after this final inspection. The CC&R language for maintenance must also be provided and approved by LBFD.
B. Prior to Home Owner Association (HOA) Acceptance (if applicable): This activity must include an LBFD Fire Inspector and the following representatives:
- Landscape design professional
- Installing landscape contractor
- HOA management representative
- HOA landscape maintenance contractor
The fuel modification shall be maintained as originally installed and approved. A copy of the approved plans must be provided to the HOA representatives at this time. Landscape professionals must convey ongoing maintenance requirements to HOA representatives.
C. Annual Inspection and Maintenance: The Property owner is responsible for all maintenance of the fuel modification. All areas must be maintained in accordance with approved fuel modification plans. This generally includes a minimum of two growth reduction maintenance activities throughout the fuel modification areas each year (spring and fall). Other activities include maintenance of irrigation systems, replacement of dead or dying vegetation with approved materials, removal of dead plant material, and removal 18 18 of 39
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of undesirable species. The LBFD conducts regular inspections of established fuel modification areas. Ongoing maintenance shall be conducted regardless of the date of these inspections. Disclosure of all landscape/fuel modification requirements shall be the responsibility of the property owner and or the agent upon transfer of ownership.
10.Fees
No additional fees are currently charged for plan reviews and site inspections. This is subject to change at the discretion of the Fire Chief.
No fees are currently charged for maintenance inspections of existing fuel modification areas.
However, non-compliance fees may be applied if identified deficiencies are not corrected within required time frames.
11.Glossary
CHARACTERISTICS OF FIRE-RESISTIVE VEGETATION – Growth with little or no accumulation of dead vegetation (either on ground or upright); non-resinous plants; low volume of total vegetation (e.g. grass vs. forest or shrub covered land); high live fuel moisture; drought tolerant; stands without ladder fuels (small limbs/branches between ground and canopy); low maintenance (slow-growing, require little care when maintained); plants with woody stems and branches that require prolonged heating to ignite.
CONDUCTION – Direct transfer of heat by objects touching each other.
CONVECTION HEAT – Transfer of heat by atmospheric currents and is most critical under windy conditions and in steep terrain.
CROWN – Upper part of tree or other woody plant carrying the main branch system and foliage.
CANOPY – More or less continuous cover of branches and foliage formed collectively by the crowns of adjacent trees or other woody growth.
DEFENSIBLE SPACE – An area around the perimeter of structures or developments in the wildland which are key points of defense/attack against encroaching wildfires or escaping structure fires.
DESIRABLE PLANT LIST – List of plants exhibiting characteristics of low fuel volume, fire resistance, and drought tolerance which make them desirable for planting in areas of high fire danger.
DRIPLINE – Ground area at the outside edge of the canopy.
DROUGHT TOLERANCE – The ability of a plant or tree to survive on little water. 19 19 of 39
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FIRE FUELS – Fuels such as grass, leaves, and draped pine needles which, when dry, ignite readily and are consumed rapidly (also called flash fuels).
FIRE BREAK – Removal of growth, usually in strips, around housing developments to prevent a fire from spreading to the structures from open land or vice versa.
FIRE PROTECTION PLAN – A Fire Protection Plan (FPP) shall include mitigation measures consistent with the unique problems resulting from the location, topography, geology, flammable vegetation, and climate of proposed site. The FPP shall address water supply, access, building ignition and fire resistance, fire protection systems and equipment, defensible space and vegetation management.
FIRE RESISTANT – All plants will burn under extreme fire weather conditions such as drought. However, plants burn at different intensities and rate of consumption. Fire-resistive plants burn at a relatively low intensity, slow rates of spread and with short flame lengths.
FIRE RETARDANCE – Relative comparison of plant species related to differences in fuel volume, inherent flammability characteristics, and ease of fire spread.
FUEL BREAK – A wide strip or block of land on which the native or pre-existing vegetation has been permanently modified so that fires burning into it can be more readily extinguished.
FUEL LOAD – The weight of fuels in a given areas, usually expressed in tons per acre.
FUEL MODIFICATION ZONE – An area of land where combustible native or ornamental vegetation has been modified and partially or totally replaced with drought tolerant, fire resistant, plants.
FUEL MOISTURE CONTENT – The amount of water in a fuel, expressed as a percentage of the oven dry weight of that fuel.
FUEL VOLUME – The amount of fuel in a plant in a given area of measurement. Generally, an open-spaced plant will be low in volume.
HORIZONTAL CONTINUITY – The extent or horizontal distribution of fuels at various levels or planes.
LADDER FUELS – Fuels which provide vertical continuity between strata. Fire is able to carry from surface fuels by convection into the crowns with relative ease.
LANDSCAPE – Any improvement made to the property not classified as a structure.
LITTER – The uppermost layer of loose debris composed of freshly fallen or slightly decomposed organic material such as dead sticks, branches, twigs, leaves or needles. 20 20 of 39
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LONG TERM – In perpetuity of the fuel modification plan requirement.
PROBABILITY OF IGNITION – A rating of the probability that a firebrand (glowing or flaming) will cause a fire, providing it lands on receptive fuels. It is calculated from air temperature, fuel shading, and fuel moisture.
RADIANT HEAT – Transfer of heat by electromagnetic waves and can, therefore, travel against the wind. For example, it can preheat the opposite side of a burning slope in a steep canyon or a neighboring home to the ignition point.
RESERVE LANDS – As defined by the Central Coastal and Southern Natural Communities Conservation Plan.
SUBDIVISION – A parcel of land that is subdivided to create multiple individual lots in accordance with the State of California Subdivision Map Act.
SPECIAL FIRE PROTECTION AREA – See Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone.
STRUCTURE – That which is built or constructed, an edifice or building of any kind or any piece of work artificially built up or composed or parts joined together in some manner.
TARGET SPECIES – Undesirable species that are generally removed as part of the fuel modification plan (see undesirable species).
UNDESIRABLE SPECIES – Those species of plants with inherent characteristics which make them highly combustible. These characteristics can be either physical or chemical.
Physical properties include large amounts of dead material retained within the plant, rough or peeling bark, and the production of large amounts of litter. Chemical properties include the presence of volatile substances such as oils, resins, wax, and pitch. These plants are sometimes referred to as target species.
URBAN INTERFACE – That line, area, or zone where structures and other human development meet or intermingles.
VERTICAL CONTINUITY – The proximity of fuels to each other that governs the fire’s capability to sustain itself. Vertical continuity applies to the relationship of aerial fuels to surface fuels or fuels low to the ground.
VERY HIGH FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONE – Any geographic area designated pursuant to Government code Section 51178 and/or local ordinance to contain the type and condition of vegetation, topography, weather, and structure density due to increased possibility of conflagration fires. See 2019 CFC Section 4904.
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ATTACHMENT 1
LANDSCAPE/FUEL MODIFICATION PLAN SUBMITTAL CHECKLIST
SUBMITTAL AND APPROVAL
PRECISE
PLANS
Prior to issuance of building
Minimum plan size 18” x 24”. Maximum plan size 24” x 36”.
Scale to be 1/8” = 1’0”
X
Number of plans sets to the Zoning Department 2 sets
PLAN REQUIREMENTS
Delineation of each fuel modification zone – line indicating limit of combustible construction (start of Zone A)
X
Scale Dimensions X
Site Characterization X
Photographs of area with emphasis on existing vegetation and topography
X
Indication of permanent zone marker locations and detail X Delineation of impacted existing vegetation X
Description of vegetation removal methodology X
Firefighter access routes around structure X
Plant palette & specifications, including a plant legend (botanical & common names) for existing and proposed plants. A matrix of typical spacing requirements, as well as the following information: planting lines, topography, wind direction, neighboring lot lines.
Designation of irrigated area X
Irrigation plans and specifications (engineer scale) shall be provided upon request
X
Removal of undesirable species (Attachment 7) X
Property lines X
Contour lines X
Location of all new and existing improvements to include landscape (hardscape and softscape)
X
Maintenance access easements (if required) X
Generally describe characteristics, existing improvements, land uses, wetland and riparian areas & vegetation for 300 feet beyond property lines in all directions
X
Statement, on the plans, of ultimate maintenance responsibility requirement
X
On title sheet, indicate tract/project conditions, CC&Rs, and/or deed restrictions relative to fuel modification
X
Location of all proposed offsite fuel modification areas with easements X 22 22 of 39
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ATTACHMENT 2
FUEL MODIFICATION CONFIGURATION OPTIONS
NOTE: When a structure is at the bottom of an upslope, the maximum total fuel modification zone width required is 150 feet. 23 23 of 39
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Attachment 3
INCLINE MEASUREMENT FOR SELECTED SLOPES
(Measured Horizontal to Surface)
***Upslope conditions need not exceed 150 feet total width*** Slope Zone Width
A B C D
0° 20’ 50’ 50’ 75’
10° 20’ 51’ 51’ 77’
15° 20’ 52’ 52’ 78’
20° 20’ 53’ 53’ 80’
25° 20’ 55’ 55’ 83’
30° 20’ 58’ 58’ 87’
35° 20’ 61’ 61’ 92’
40° 20’ 65’ 65’ 98’
45° 20’ 71’ 71’ 100’
50° 20’ 75’ 75’ 100’
60° 20’ 75’ 75’ 100’
Slope (Grade)
60° (173%)
50° (119%)
45° (100%)
40° (84%)
35° (70%)
30° (58%)
25° (47%)
20° (36%)
15° (27%)
10° (18%)
0° (0%) Flat
Zone Zone Zone Zone
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Attachment 4
ZONE MARKER DETAILS
Zone markers shall identify each zone with min. 2” contrasting lettering (e.g. Zone A) and placed every 50 lineal feet along each zone. A minimum of two markers per zone shall be required. Zone markers shall be maintained and serviceable at all times.
2'
-0'' ABOVE MATURE PLANT
GROWTH (4'
-0'' MIN.)
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Attachment 5
SAMPLE CC&R MAINTENANCE LANGUAGE
It is recommended that the following language be included in the CC&Rs recorded for a common interest development:
The duty of the homeowners’ association to perform “Fire Prevention Maintenance” (as defined below) for all Fuel Modification Zones and manufactured interior slopes within the development shall be included as an express obligation in the recorded CC&Rs for the development. Similarly, each Owner whose Lot (or Condominium) is subject to Fuel Modification Zone restrictions (e.g., non-combustible structure setback, etc.) shall be obligated to comply with such restrictions.
1. LBFD will be designated as a third party beneficiary of a homeowners’ association’s duty to perform “Fire Prevention Maintenance” (as defined below) for all portions of the Association Property (or Common Area) that constitute Fuel Modification Zones and designated interior/manufactured slopes to be maintained by the homeowners’ association, and of any Owner’s duty to comply with any Fuel Modification Zone restrictions applicable to his Lot (or Condominium). Additionally, LBFD shall have the right, but not the obligation, to enforce the homeowners’ association’s duty to perform such Fire Prevention Maintenance, and to enforce compliance by any Owner with any Fuel Modification Zone restrictions applicable to his Lot (or Condominium). In furtherance of such right, LBFD shall be entitled to recover its costs of suit, including its actual attorneys’ fees, if it prevails in an enforcement action against a homeowners’ association and/or an individual Owner. (A sample third party beneficiary provision to be incorporated into the CC&Rs is attached hereto as Addendum "1").
2. As used herein, "Fire Prevention Maintenance" shall mean the following:
(i) All portions of the Association Property (or Common Area) that constitute Fuel Modification Zones or designated interior/manufactured slopes shall be regularly maintained by the homeowners association on a year round basis in accordance with the Fuel Modification Plan on file with the property manager for the development.
(ii) The irrigation system for Fuel Modification Zones or designated interior/manufactured slopes shall be kept in good condition and proper working order at all times. The irrigation system shall not be turned off except for necessary repairs and maintenance.
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ADDENDUM “1”
Enforcement by the City of Laguna Beach: The City of Laguna Beach (City) is hereby designated as an intended third party beneficiary of the Association’s duties to perform Fire Prevention Maintenance for all portions of the Association Property (or Common Areas) consisting of Fuel Modification Zones or designated interior/manufactured slopes in accordance with the Fuel Modification Plan, and of each Owner’s duty to comply with any Fuel Modification Zone or designated interior/manufactured slopes restrictions applicable to his Lot (or Condominium) as set forth in the Fuel Modification Plan. In furtherance thereof, the City shall have the right, but not the obligation, to enforce the performance by the Association of its duties and any other fire prevention requirements, which were imposed by the City or other Public Agency as a condition of approval for the Development (e.g. , prohibition of parking in fire lanes, maintenance of the blue reflective markers indicating the location of fire hydrants, etc.) and shall also have the right, but not the obligation, to enforce compliance by any Owner with any Fuel Modification Zone or designated interior/manufactured slopes restrictions applicable to his Lot (or Condominium) as set forth in the Fuel Modification Plan. If, in its sole discretion, the City shall deem it necessary to take legal action against the Association or any Owner to enforce such duties or other requirements, and prevails in such action, the City shall be entitled to recover the full costs of said action, including its actual attorneys' fees, and to impose a lien against the Association Property, or an Owner’s Lot (or Condominium), as the case may be, until said costs are paid in full.
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Attachment 6
TREE AND TREE-FORM SHRUB PRUNNING AND SPACING FOR NEW
PLANTINGS AND THINNING ZONES
Plant Group Spacing
10’
Understory
Height
Understory
Clearance 3y
y
NOT TO SCALE
1. Vertical Continuity. New and existing trees and tree-form shrubs (naturally reaching 4’ and taller), which are being retained with the approval of the Laguna Beach Fire Department, shall be pruned to provide clearance of three times the height of the understory plant material or 10 feet, whichever is greater (see figure above). New trees and tree-form shrubs may comply with the lesser if sufficient height is not available to achieve 10 feet. Dead and excessively twiggy growth shall be removed.
2. Plant Group Spacing.
a) Trees and tree-form shrubs shall be single specimens or in a maximum grouping of three plants. Groupings shall be separated by a distance of 10’ (see figure above). Other limited grouping arrangements and spacing may be acceptable if approved by LBFD.
b) Trees shall be single specimens or in a maximum grouping of three plants. Groupings shall be separated by a distance of 10 feet (see figure above). Other limited grouping arrangements and spacing may be acceptable if approved by LBFD.
c) Plant specimens listed in the LBFD “Defensible Space and Home Guideline; Suggestions for Plants and Vegetation” (accessible on the LBFD website) shall comply with plant groupings and spacing requirements specified in this Guideline.
Shrub Height
x
Shrub massing exceeding 18” in height
3 times
between two
nearest edges
of adjacent
islands
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Attachment 7
UNDESIRABLE PLANT SPECIES (Target Species)
Certain plants are considered to be undesirable in the landscape due to characteristics that make them highly flammable. Plants with these characteristics may not be planted in fuel modification zones, as listed below. Should these species already exist within these areas, they must be removed.
Plans should be submitted to the City for review without the target plants listed below. In cases where undesirable plants are included in a submittal for new planting or preservation, the Applicant must submit a request for use of alternative materials and methods. The request will be evaluated by the Fire Department for acceptability.
The list of undesirable plants is comprehensive, but not complete. Closely related species and varieties having substantially similar flammable characteristics as the identified target species may also not be acceptable.
Applicants are encouraged to maximize fire safety by using plants with high water content, low fuel volume, succulent leaves and stems, low litter, and low amounts of flammable oils and resins.
Avoidance of target species alone does not confer maximum fire safety.
Spacing requirements of Attachment 6 apply to all species and must be reflected in the planting design plan submitted to the City.
Vines are not allowed on combustible structures.
Extensive massing of grasses with heights greater than 12” high may not be acceptable.
Additional factors to consider when selecting plants for wildland interface areas include: deer and rabbit resistance, aesthetic compatibility with hillside character, erosion control, and drought tolerance.
TARGET SPECIES UNACCEPTABLE FOR USE IN ALL FUEL MODIFICATION ZONES (A, B, C, D):
Botanical Name Common Name Form
Acacia longifolia Sydney Golden Wattle Shrub
Acacia redolens NCN Shrub
Adenostoma fasciculatum Chamise Shrub
Artemisia californica California Sagebrush Shrub
Arundo donax Giant Reed Grass
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Atriplex lentiformis Quail Bush Shrub
Bambusa species Bamboo Grass
Brassica nigra Black Mustard Annual
Brassica rapa Yellow Mustard Annual
Caprobotus edulis Hot N Tot Fig Groundcover
Cedrus species Cedar Tree
Cortaderia selloana Pampas Grass Grass
Cupressus sempervirens Italian Cypress Tree
Cynara cardunculus Artichoke Thistle Perennial
Cytisus species Broom Shrub
Delospermum species Iceplant Groundcover
Drosanthemum species Iceplant Groundcover
Eriogonum fasciculatum Buckwheat Shrub
Eucalyptus species Gums Tree
Fargesia species Bamboo Grass
Hedera canariensis Algerian Ivy Groundcover
Juniperus species (shrubs and trees) Juniper Shrub/Tree Lampranthus species Iceplant Groundcover
Melaleuca linariifolia Flaxleaf Paperbark Tree
Melaleuca quinquenervia Cajeput Tree Tree
Nicotiana glauca Tree tobacco Perennial
Otatea acuminata Mexican Weeping Bamboo Grass
Pennisetum setaceum Fountain Grass Grass
Phyllostachys species Bamboo Grass
Pinus species Pine Tree
Ricinus communis Castor Bean Plant Perennial
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Salvia (native species and varieties) Sage Shrub
Sascola autails Russian Thistle/Tumbleweed Annual
Semiarundinara fastuosa Narihira Bamboo Grass
Schinus terebinthifolius Brazilian Pepper Grass
Thuja species Arborvitae Shrub
Umbellularia californica California Bay Tree
Vinca major Periwinkle Groundcover
Washingtonia species Fan Palm Palm
ADDITIONAL TARGET SPECIES UNACCEPTABLE FOR USE IN FUEL MODIFICATION ZONE A (Zone closest to combustible structures):
Unacceptable species for Zone A include those listed above for all zones plus the following:
Botanical Name Common Name Form
Acacia species Acacia/Wattle Various
Arctostaphylos species (shrubs and trees) Manzanita Shrub/Tree Atriplex species Saltbush Shrub
Bougainvillea species Bougainvillea Shrub/Vine
Callistemon species Bottlebrush Tree
Cinnamomum camphora Camphor Tree
Cotoneaster species (shrubs and trees) Cotoneaster Shrub/Tree Dodonea viscosa Hopseed Shrub
Hakea suavolens Sweet Hakea Shrub
Heteromeles arbutifolia Toyon Shrub/Tree
Laurus nobilis Bay/Grecian Laurel Shrub/Tree
Malosma laurina Sugarbush Shrub/Tree
Melaleuca nesophila Pink Melaleuca Tree
Miscanthus sinensis Silver Grass Grass
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Muhlenbergia rigens Deer Grass Grass
Pennisetum rubrum Purple Fountain Grass Grass
Phoenix canariensis Canary Island Date Palm Palm
Phoenix dactylifera Date Palm Palm
Rhus integrifolia Lemonade Berry Shrub
Rosmarinus officianalis Upright rosemary Shrub
Schinus molle California Pepper Tree
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