San Diego County Supervisors Advance Unsafe Camping Ordinance to Prevent Wildfires

The San Diego County Board of Supervisors has unanimously voted to advance updates to the unsafe camping ordinance to prevent wildfires caused by homeless encampments in unincorporated areas. The board will review a draft ordinance in two months, with a possible requirement for a second vote for it to become law. Proposed changes include provisions related to fire risks and protections for open spaces, alongside a 24-hour notification period for those experiencing homelessness. The existing ordinance allows law enforcement to manage illegal encampments and protect public spaces from fire and pollution without requiring available shelter. Supervisor Joel Anderson emphasized the necessity of the ordinance, citing recent fires linked to encampments, including the January Center Fire in Rancho Bernardo. The proposal aligns with a services-first approach, aiming to connect affected individuals with resources while complying with the Supreme Court's ruling in City of Grants Pass v. Johnson.