New Development Site plans
Mitigate
Land use planning plays a critical role in reducing wildfire risk for new developments by integrating fire-adapted principles into community growth strategies. Comprehensive plans, which serve as the foundation for long-term development, can incorporate wildfire risk assessments and establish policies that guide where and how development occurs in high-risk areas.
Defensible Space
Defensible space is a critical buffer zone created between a structure and surrounding wildland areas to reduce the risk of wildfire spreading to the home.
It is designed to slow or stop the spread of wildfire and protect homes from ignition caused by direct flame contact, radiant heat, or airborne embers.
This space also provides a safer area for firefighters to defend the property and improves overall safety during evacuation.
Integrating
Wildfire planning integration involves aligning various local planning mechanisms—such as the General Plan, Hazard Mitigation Plan, and Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP)—to enhance community resilience and improve wildfire management outcomes.
Research indicates that overall alignment among these plans in California remains low, particularly concerning vulnerability assessments, highlighting a critical gap in coordinated planning.
To address this, tools like California's Wildfire Resilience Plan Alignment Guide are designed to foster collaboration across different planning frameworks and identify six key themes for improved integration.