Fire Zone Classifications Questioned

Two county supervisors have expressed reservations about a proposal to classify some canyon and hillside areas as “very high-fire hazard severity zones,” fearing the designation would prompt insurers to raise rates in the neighborhoods.

County fire officials have proposed creating zones in some unincorporated areas in response to 1993’s Laguna Beach fire, which destroyed hundreds of homes. New homes built in the zones would be required to comply with a variety of safety standards aimed at reducing fire risks.

Supervisors Don Saltarelli and Jim Silva said Tuesday such a designation could give insurance companies an excuse to raise rates in the areas, most of which are in the foothills around Anaheim Hills, Orange, Tustin, Mission Viejo and other portions of South County.

“I hope that by establishing the zones, we are not giving the insurance companies a license to raise rates,” Silva said.

But Supervisor William G. Steiner said the Laguna Beach fire proved that areas with high risks need to take special precautions.

The Board of Supervisors will consider the issue later this month. If it adopts the proposal, new homes built in the designated areas would have to have tile roofs and to be clear of brush and other flammable materials.