ESCONDIDO — The city is updating its building codes to reflect a new state fire hazard severity zone map released by the California State Fire Marshal, adding additional fire risk classifications for the first time in more than a decade.
The updated 2025 map includes two new tiers — moderate and very high hazard zones — in addition to the previously identified high-risk areas from the 2009 map. The update aims to more accurately reflect wildfire susceptibility in and around Escondido, according to Deputy Fire Marshal LaVona Koretke.
Cal Fire’s fire scientists and wildfire mitigation experts developed the updated map using a science-based, field-tested model that considers a range of wildfire behavior indicators. These include fire history, existing and potential fuel sources, predicted flame length, windborne embers, terrain, and the area’s typical fire weather.
Koretke said the map evaluates “hazard,” not “risk.” Hazard refers to the likelihood of fire behavior based on physical conditions over a 30- to 50-year period and does not account for mitigation efforts such as home hardening or fuel reduction.
In contrast, risk takes into account the actual potential damage a fire could cause under current conditions, including any preventative measures.
Escondido is also home to what officials say is the nation’s first wildfire-resistant housing development. Known as Dixon Trail, the community will feature 64 detached, single-family homes that have earned the Wildfire Prepared Home Plus designation, part of the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety’s new Wildfire Prepared Neighborhood Standard.
Developer KB Home said the Escondido project will serve as a national model for reducing wildfire risks through research-based design.
The Escondido City Council unanimously approved the updated fire map on May 14, with the exception of Councilmember Judy Fitzgerald, who was absent.
Councilmember Joe Garcia raised concerns from community members who feared the updated map could impact home insurance rates. However, City Manager Sean McGlynn clarified that “these maps are not legally allowed to be used by insurance companies to set rates.”
With the map now adopted, new development in Escondido will be subject to additional requirements depending on the fire hazard severity zone. Projects in high and very high severity areas must use fire-resistant construction materials and include a real estate hazard disclosure. In very high zones, homes must also maintain a 100-foot buffer from wildland areas.
Residents can view the updated map online at www.escondido.gov/528/Fire-Severity-Zone.
