Beverly Hills Updates Hazard Mitigation and Fire Hazard Maps

Beverly Hills Updates Hazard Mitigation and Fire Hazard Maps Amid Rising Climate Risks

The city of Beverly Hills has introduced a new Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) designed to assist property owners in preparing for and recovering from natural disasters. The public has until May 5 to read and comment on the LHMP report before it is officially adopted.

Details of the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan

The LHMP is expected to enhance the city’s resilience to natural disasters, increase eligibility for federal grants, and promote community involvement in disaster preparedness. It evaluates various actions that both the city and property owners can undertake to minimize risks associated with natural hazards.

For the city to qualify for grants from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services, it must adopt the LHMP. Residents can access the draft plan at beverlyhills.org/1447/Hazard-Mitigation-Plan-Update and are encouraged to send their comments to hazardmitigation@beverlyhills.org.

Changes in Fire Hazard Severity Zones

In related news, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) has released new fire hazard severity zone maps that impact Beverly Hills, resulting in the re-designation of several areas. Approximately 260 additional acres in the city have been classified as very high fire hazard severity zones, particularly in areas south of Sunset Boulevard. Previously, the very high zone was mostly north of this location.

The new boundary now runs from Lomitas Avenue to Elevado Avenue in an east-west direction. Homeowners can determine their fire hazard zone using their home address on the Cal Fire website, which now employs new mapping technology that takes into account the wind patterns capable of transferring embers from rural to urban regions.

Defensible Space and Public Awareness

As part of the updated regulations, homeowners residing in designated very high fire hazard severity zones will need to comply with laws regarding defensible space. This requires managing vegetation in a range of 5 to 100 feet from their structures. The Beverly Hills Fire Department has announced plans to inform residents about these new requirements, offering education on compliance before any strict enforcement begins.

Climate Action Initiatives

On April 22, the Beverly Hills City Council adopted a new climate action and adaptation plan to address the growing challenges posed by climate change. This strategic framework aims to lower greenhouse gas emissions and better prepare the community for climate emergencies.

The adopted plan outlines various recommendations, including transitioning city building codes to prioritize clean energy and enhancing water conservation efforts. Initial measures have already begun, such as expanding electric vehicle charging stations and supporting infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists.

Recognized as a “living document,” the climate plan is intended to evolve with technological advancements. Each project derived from the climate plan will undergo its own cost analysis, with opportunities for grants to help manage financial requirements.

Community and Leadership Response

Beverly Hills Mayor Sharona Nazarian has highlighted the importance of the climate plan as a foundational blueprint for future decisions and budgetary considerations. However, some concerns were raised by Vice Mayor John Mirisch, who questioned whether the plan adequately addresses fundamental issues relating to climate change, such as urban growth and population density.