Government Code section 51178

The State Fire Marshal shall identify areas in the state as moderate, high, and very high fire hazard severity zones based on consistent statewide criteria and based on the severity of fire hazard that is expected to prevail in those areas. Moderate, high, and very high fire hazard severity zones shall be based on fuel loading, slope, fire weather, and other relevant factors including areas where winds have been identified by the Office of the State Fire Marshal as a major cause of wildfire spread.

Source: Section 51178, https://leginfo.­legislature.­ca.­gov/faces/codes_displaySection.­xhtml?lawCode=GOV§ionNum=51178.­ (updated Jan. 1, 2022; accessed Jul. 13, 2026).

Green check means up to date. Up to date

Verified:
Jul. 13, 2026

§ 51178's source at ca​.gov