Berkeley City Council Approves Stricter Wildfire Prevention Rules for High-Risk Neighborhoods

The Berkeley City Council has unanimously approved the EMBER wildfire prevention ordinance, which requires homeowners in designated Very High fire risk zones, including Panoramic Hill and Grizzly Peak, to maintain a five-foot ember-resistant buffer zone around their homes, free of combustible vegetation and materials. This ordinance, anticipated to take effect next year, is among the strictest fire safety regulations in California and aims to reduce the chance of ember storms igniting homes, thereby helping to prevent catastrophic wildfires. The new local map and fire code amendments are proactive measures ahead of statewide regulations expected by 2026, following Governor Gavin Newsom's executive order to accelerate fire resilience. While some residents and groups like the Alliance for Practical Fire Solutions criticize the ordinance for its perceived overreach, financial burden, and scientific basis, others commend the council for acting swiftly to protect the community. The council has committed to ongoing reviews and potential amendments to the EMBER rules, and legal challenges from opponents are being considered. The ordinance represents a significant step in adapting Berkeley's landscape and policies to the increasing threat of wildfires in the region.