The City of Rocklin is in the process of implementing new Fire Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ) designations, following state law requirements that aim to enhance fire safety and reduce wildfire risk. These updated FHSZ designations will impact real estate transactions, defensible space requirements, and building codes for properties in Rocklin. Here’s what residents need to know:

What Are Fire Hazard Severity Zones?

Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZ) are classifications established by Cal Fire’s Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) to assess the risk of wildfires in different areas. These zones are divided into four categories:

• No Hazard
• Moderate
• High
• Very High

Each category reflects the level of fire risk, with “Very High” indicating areas at the highest risk of wildfire danger. The City of Rocklin has been designated with the following classifications:

• 1,421 acres as Moderate FHSZ
• 1,623 acres as High FHSZ

The remainder of the City has been designated as “No Hazard”. There are no areas that have been designated as “Very High” FHSZ within the City of Rocklin boundaries.

Local Adoption of FHSZ Designations

As part of a statewide effort to address wildfire risks, Rocklin must adopt these FHSZ maps and incorporate them into local planning efforts. The city received its official notice of the updated FHSZ designations on February 10, 2025. In line with state law, Rocklin has 120 days from this date to formally adopt these designations through an ordinance, with a deadline of July 10, 2025.

Public Review Process

The City is committed to engaging residents in the decision-making process. The public will have the opportunity to review the proposed FHSZ maps by visiting rocklin.ca.us/FHSZ and provide feedback. This public review process will run until the ordinance is adopted, which is anticipated to occur in late May/early June 2025. All residents are encouraged to visit the city’s website to view the FHSZ maps and submit comments under “public comment”.

What’s Changing in Fire Safety Requirements?

Several changes will accompany the updated FHSZ designations, aimed at enhancing fire prevention and reducing wildfire risk:

2. Stricter Building Standards

• New construction in High FHSZ areas must comply with California Building Code Chapter 7A, which includes materials and construction methods designed to reduce exterior wildfire exposure. These standards apply to all new residential, commercial, and educational buildings, and will likely result in higher costs for builders, though they will provide better protection for residents.

3. Real Estate and Inspection Requirements

• AB 38, a 2019 law, impacts real estate transactions in High FHSZs. Home sellers in these areas will be required to provide documentation showing compliance with defensible space regulations before completing a sale.
• Additionally, the fire department will conduct inspections of properties in High FHSZs before a sale can be finalized. These inspections will ensure that properties meet the required defensible space standards.
• Fire-hardening disclosures will also be required for homes built before 2025 in High FHSZs. Sellers will need to inform buyers about potential vulnerabilities related to the older building codes, which could make the selling process more challenging.

Why Is This Important?

These updated FHSZ designations are a critical step toward improving fire safety in Rocklin. By adopting stricter fire safety regulations and building standards, the City aims to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires, protect property, and enhance the overall safety of residents. The public review process and involvement in adopting the FHSZ map ensure that Rocklin residents have a voice in shaping the future of fire safety in their community.

How You Can Get Involved

Residents are encouraged to take part in the public review process. Visit the city’s website to view the proposed FHSZ map, submit your feedback, and stay informed about important updates regarding fire safety in your area. Your input is vital to ensuring Rocklin remains a safe and resilient community in the face of growing wildfire risks.

For more information on FHSZ designations, defensible space requirements, and other fire safety measures, please visit the City of Rocklin’s official website or contact the Rocklin Fire Department at (916) 625-5300.