HomeMy WebLinkAboutFD Wildfire Prevention and Protection Action Plan____________________________________________________________________________________
FOR CITY CLERK ONLY
Council Meeting: 01/22/2019
Disposition: Accepted informational report on draft Action Plan
Agenda Item No: 7.b
Meeting Date: January 22, 2019
SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
Department: Fire Department
Prepared by: Christopher Gray,
Fire Chief
City Manager Approval: ____________
TOPIC: WILDFIRE PREVENTION AND PROTECTION ACTION PLAN
SUBJECT: WILDFIRE PREVENTION AND PROTECTION ACTION PLAN INFORMATIONAL
REPORT
RECOMMENDATION:
Accept informational report relating to the proposed draft Wildfire Prevention and Protection Action Plan
and provide direction to staff, if applicable, to make changes to the draft Plan.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
The attached draft Wildfire Prevention and Protection Action Plan (the “draft Plan”) outlines various goals
relating to wildfire prevention, which includes, but is not limited to, the following: changes to the City’s
municipal code, defined projects, and a series of programs, all of which are designed to help San Rafael
proactively and aggressively address the growing risks associated with wildfire. The draft Plan was
created per City Council direction at the August 20, 2018 meeting, following an informational report that
was presented to the City Council relating to wildfire prevention efforts. At this time, City staff seeks to
present the proposed draft Plan to the City Council at a public meeting to provide City Council and the
public an opportunity to review the draft Plan and provide feedback, as well as to seek City Council
direction relating to any requested changes to the draft Plan. After the January 22, 2019 City Council
meeting, staff will compile feedback from the City Council and the public, as well as follow up on any
direction provided by the City Council specifically related to requested changes to the draft Plan, and will
bring forth a final Wildfire Prevention and Protection Plan to the City Council for formal approval at a
future meeting.
BACKGROUND:
Climate change and growing hazardous fuel loads are creating an increased wildfire risk acr oss
California. In the past few years, wildfires have shattered notorious records, including size, property
damage, and loss of life. These devasting fires have also provided new insight into how fires behave in
the changing environment and expanding wildland urban interface. Recently, in June 2018, 11.6 acres
SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 2
on San Rafael Hill burned. The fire was quickly contained by a strong response, including over 80
personnel and air support, and favorable fuel and weather conditions.
In 2007, the City Council adopted a model ordinance, entitled Wildland-Urban Interface—Vegetation
Management Standards, for vegetation management to proactively reduce the risk of wildfires (S.R.M.C.
4.12). This ordinance specifically codifies required vegetation management standards for parcels located
in designated Wildland-Urban Interface (“WUI”) areas, with the goal of creating defensible space around
structures that will minimize the spread of fires from wildlands to structures, from structures to wildlands,
and from structures to structures. Also, the Marin County Fire Chiefs continue to discuss and review ways
to better address the growing risk and public concern posed by wildfire risk in our communities. In
November 2017, the Marin County Board of Supervisors created a sub-committee to study lessons
learned from recent wildfires. In response, on September 11, 2018, the Marin County Fire Department
presented a report to the Board of Supervisors relating to the sub-committee’s findings, which includes a
list of proposed areas for improvement in managing local wildfire risk. This report includes
recommendations to fire, law enforcement, and land management agencies, in addition to emergency
services and cities and towns.
Annually, San Rafael proactively addresses wildfire risk in numerous ways. These measures include
actions such as:
- Providing free vegetation inspections for residents
- Supporting and coordinating free community chipper days
- Engaging and supporting communities seeking Firewise certification
- Regularly patrolling the open space with two Police Department Rangers
- Providing ongoing public outreach and education at community events, homeowners associations
meetings, and City events.
In August 2018, staff presented an informational report to the City Council relating to the City’s wildfire
prevention efforts. As part of the presentation, the City Council provided direction to staff to draft a bold
and comprehensive plan to further address wildfire risk in San Rafael. In response to direction from the
City Council, along with public comment, staff developed the attached draft Plan. Many of the
recommendations set forth in the September 11, 2018 report from the Marin County Board of Supervisors
sub-committee are incorporated into the draft Plan.
ANALYSIS:
Lessons learned from recent fires, as well as new research relating to fire safety and a changing climate,
have prompted San Rafael to take additional steps to prevent a wildfire tragedy. The draft Plan lists a
series of prescriptions, programs, and ordinance changes needed to make San Rafael more fire and
disaster-resistant. These action items reflect the need for a comprehensive approach to reducing wildfire
risk. Removing dangerous vegetation, using fire-resistant building materials, and avoiding risky activities
all are vital for protecting the community.
The draft Plan contains 37 Objectives, followed by a proposed Action to take in order to meet each
Objective. The draft Plan proposes numerous changes to the City’s municipal code. Most significantly,
staff recommends updating the City’s municipal code to apply existing vegetation standards citywide,
instead of only within the WUI, areas where homes are built near lands that are prone to wildland fire.
Staff believes that these changes to the City’s municipal code are essential to reducing the wildfire risk
in San Rafael. These expanded standards are directly reflected in items 1, 2, 3, 4, 19 and 20, in addition
to being components of other ongoing and planned projects. (see pp. 4-6, 16-17 in draft Plan). If staff
moves forward with finalizing the draft Plan for City Council approval, once the draft Plan in final form is
approved by the City Council, staff will prepare ordinances amending the City’s municipal code to create
SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 3
citywide vegetation standards and codify those regulations in Chapter 4 of the Municipal Code to
accompany the existing vegetation management standards. Chapter 4.12 of the City’s municipal code,
which establishes the vegetation management standards for the WUI, will be updated to include only
standards unique to the WUI.
By presenting this informational report at a public meeting, the City will use this opportunity to facilitate
additional community discussion and clarify the most effective ways to reduce wildfire risk in San Rafael.
After the presentation, staff will compile feedback from the City Council and the public, as well as follow
up on any direction provided by the City Council specifically related to any requested changes to the draft
Plan, and will bring forth a final Wildfire Prevention and Protection Plan (the “final Plan”) to the City
Council for formal approval at a future meeting in early 2019.
Following the approval of the final Plan, City staff will complete the Objectives outlined in the final Plan,
including preparing municipal code changes for City Council consideration. New and expanded programs
identified in the final plan will require additional staff time and/or funding before they can be fully
implemented.
The draft Plan includes the following 37 objectives:
1. Eliminate highly flammable vegetation throughout San Rafael
2. Apply vegetation management standards citywide
3. Adopt Public Resource Code 4290 and 4291
4. Reduce ember ignitions within immediate structure ignition zone standards
5. Apply fire mitigation codes 365 days a year
6. Eliminate fire hazard associated with shake and wooden roofs
7. Increase funding and resources available for wildfire mitigation
8. Immediately seize ignition sources at encampments and remove encampments as quickly as
possible
9. Provide for additional Vegetation Management staff
10. Increase Police Ranger staffing
11. Improve public education regarding fire-safe landscaping and planning for a wildfire
12. Increase capability for early fire warnings and detection
13. Improve public emergency alerting capabilities and policies
14. Complete an analysis of fire roads and strategic fuel breaks
15. Expand goat grazing for vegetation maintenance
16. Assure that residents can evacuate through garage doors if power is out
17. Improve development and implementation of Vegetation Management Plans (VMPs)
18. Assure that appropriate staff can send and receive emergency alerts
19. Reduce fuels along roadways
20. Reduce fuels around critical infrastructure
21. Assure that City staff can communicate during an emergency
22. Establish more Firewise communities in San Rafael
23. Review and update WUI map
24. Apply CA Fire Code 7A (fire resistant building material requirements) to additional structures
25. Establish a residential hillside “parking box” program
26. Increase the number of completed VMPs
27. Incorporate VMPs into residential property sales or transfers
28. Prevent potential entrapments by requiring 2 gates in any fence in designated areas
29. Reduce fire risk and keep visitors using short-term rentals safe
30. Review and expand evacuation plans
31. Develop comprehensive San Rafael hazardous vegetation study and mitigation measures
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32. Establish additional fuel interruption zones
33. Engage CERT members in fire prevention
34. Reduce hazardous fuels through an abatement process on privately owned unimproved lots
35. Reengage volunteer “Broom Pull Days”
36. Improve the public’s fire risk awareness with sign improvements and installation
37. Effectively coordinate the removal of vegetative debris
For more information, including the proposed Action, as well as an analysis of each of the Objectives,
please see the attached draft Wildfire Prevention and Protection Action Plan.
COMMUNITY OUTREACH: Feedback from the public, including from the Fire Commission, has been
incorporated into the current draft Plan, including the proposed changes to the City’s mun icipal code.
Feedback will continue to be welcomed and considered throughout the ordinance drafting, public hearing,
and adoption process.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact associated with this informational item.
OPTIONS:
The City Council has the following options to consider on this matter:
1. Accept informational report.
2. Direct staff to return with more information.
3. Do not accept informational report.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Accept informational report relating to the proposed draft Wildfire Prevention and Protection Action Plan
(the “draft Plan”) and provide direction to staff, if applicable, to make changes to the draft Plan.
ATTACHMENT:
1. Draft “Wildfire Prevention and Protection Action Plan”
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San Rafael Wildfire Prevention and Protection Action Plan
Background: In 2007, the City of San Rafael adopted a model ordinance for vegetation management. As
we experience continued fire risk and activity associated with climate change, the City of San Rafael has
been actively evaluating methods to further reduce our community’s susceptibility to devasting wildfires.
Wildfire risks will persist under extreme conditions; however, we can significantly mitigate those risk
factors through enhanced regulations, education and enforcement. Public policy and programs provide a
framework for a more resilient San Rafael but will require public support, compliance, effective
implementation, and individual effort.
Currently, the City’s wildfire prevention efforts focus on our Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) areas,
which were established to identify areas most at risk for being impacted by a wildfire. Specific vegetation
standards, including those adopted by San Rafael in 2007, apply only to property in the WUI. However,
as climate change and increased fuel build-up contribute to more devasting fires, these boundaries no
longer are sufficient or effective. Ember storms, explained in more detail below, can spread fire miles
ahead of the flame front, regardless of WUI boundaries. To adequately protect communities, more
universal standards and approaches are necessary. Each structure burned in a fire not only is a personal
and communal loss, but also contributes to additional fire spread.
The three primary methods of wildfire spread are described below:
Embers: According to recent research, embers are the most prolific cause of home ignition at a
rate of two out of every three homes destroyed. Embers are glowing or burning pieces of
vegetation or construction debris that are lofted during the wildfire. Embers can move up to a
mile ahead of a firestorm. These small embers or sparks may fall on the vegetation near your
home – on dry leaves, needles or twigs on the roof– and then subsequently ignite and burn down
the home. The concentration of embers that land on the roof and roll off makes the removal of all
flammable materials close to the house critical.
Direct flame contact: Direct flame impingement refers to the transfer of heat by direct flame
exposure. Direct contact will heat the building materials of the home; if the time and intensity of
exposure is severe enough, windows will break and materials will ignite.
Radiant heat: A house can catch on fire from the heat that is transferred to it from nearby burning
objects, even in the absence of direct flames or embers. By creating defensible space around
homes, we can significantly reduce the risk from radiant heat. A home with 100 feet of clearance
from forest or shrubs will usually have minimal impact from radiant heat or direct flame.
Establishing strong guidelines for defensible space and fire-resistant building materials helps prevent
ignition from radiant heat and embers. Limiting fuel and available vegetation reduces the possibility of
direct flame contact igniting structures or other vegetation.
This document lists a series of prescriptions, programs, and ordinance changes needed to make San
Rafael more fire and disaster-resistant. These action items reflect the need for a comprehensive approach
to reducing wildfire risk. Removing dangerous vegetation, using fire-resistant building materials, and
avoiding risky activities all are vital for protecting the community.
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The action items are organized into four categories: 1) prepared ordinance changes, 2) immediate
programs and projects, 3) planned ordinance changes, and 4) planned programs and projects. Each action
item includes the objective, rationale, required actions, concerns, costs, potential stakeholders, and a
proposed timeline in the following format:
OBJECTIVE
Action This section includes a description of the proposed action.
What this means This section should explain in more detail what this action would mean
to those impacted by it.
Rationale This section includes a discussion of why we recommend this, including
the scale of impact we believe it will have.
Concerns This section includes a discussion of political, legal, or cost feasibility
concerns that we’ve identified. List any trade-offs, such as the
dedication of existing staffing resources away from other projects to do
this work.
Costs This section includes estimated one-time and on-going costs to the City,
as well as any costs the community may incur. The standards for
evaluation are listed below.
Stakeholders This section includes a list of stakeholders.
Timeline This section says if the action is underway and if not, why. For example,
note here if the action requires further or extensive legal review, future
City Council action, community outreach, program design work, etc.
Impacts on Budget and Staff Time
The funding, required staff time, and proposed timelines for each objective have been individually
evaluated. If action is requested on the entire action plan, timelines may need to be extended and
additional staff may be required. Financial costs have been evaluated and are identified using the
following standard:
$ Efforts are supported by current program budget
$$ Efforts could be supported with reprogramming of current budget
$$$ Efforts require additional funding
Staff time required to achieve each objective has been estimated and identified using the following
standard:
@ Efforts are supported with currently allocated staff time. No significant impact on other
programming is anticipated.
@@ Efforts can be accomplished with existing staff reallocating time. Other projects will be
deprioritized.
@@@ Efforts will require additional staff time then is currently available. Requires additional
staff or increasing hours of part time staff.
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Definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following words are defined:
“Fuel” means any combustible vegetation, including grass, leaves, ground litter, plants, shrubs
and trees, that can feed a fire.
“Vegetation Management Plan” means a site-specific written plan for a property to mitigate the
risk of wildfire through strategic reduction of combustible vegetation.
“Wildfire” means a fire that originates in an area of combustible vegetation, as opposed to a
structure fire, which originates in or adjacent to a building.
“Wildland-Urban Interface” is an area where human development (e.g., houses) abut or
intermingle with undeveloped vegetation and where the risk of wildfire is high.
A table of acronyms is provided below:
Table 1 – Acronyms
Acronym Description
CERT Community Emergency Response Team
CWPP Community Wildfire Protection Plan
DPW Department of Public Works
EOC Emergency Operations Center
GETS Government Emergency Telecommunications Service
HEAT Homeless Emergency Action Team
MCSO Marin County Sheriff’s Office
MMWD Marin Municipal Water District
NCCC National Civilian Conservation Corps, An AmeriCorps Program
NFPA National Fire Protection Association
OES Office of Emergency Services
PG&E Pacific Gas and Electric
PRC Public Resource Code
SRFD San Rafael Fire Department
SRMC San Rafael Municipal Code
SRPD San Rafael Police Department
VMP Vegetation Management Plan
WEA Wireless Emergency Alerts
WPS Wireless Priority Services
WUI Wildland-Urban Interface
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PREPARED ORDINANCE CHANGES
The following items are proposed for upcoming review and adoption.
1. Eliminate highly flammable vegetation throughout San
Rafael
Action Ordinance change. Revise the existing provisions that prohibit
Juniper and Bamboo to include Acacia and Italian Cypress, and
universally apply these regulations to all properties in San Rafael.
What this
means
All property owners in San Rafael, both public and private, would be required
to remove all Juniper, Bamboo, Acacia, and Italian Cypress from their property
by July 1, 2020. Support for property owners to meet this deadline may
include an enhanced Chipper Day program and the ability to apply for the City
to fund additional green waste bins for a limited time.
Rationale These species are known to propagate fire at a high rate of spread and create
unnecessary risks to the property owners, first responders, and community at
large. The ordinance update will help reduce fire ignition, the spread of wildfire,
and improve responder safety throughout the entire community by eliminating
highly combustible vegetation. Establishing and maintaining citywide
vegetation standards will simplify education and enforcement efforts. To
address ascetics and erosion, outreach and education efforts will include
information about fire resistant plants and landscaping.
Concerns Difficult to proactively enforce citywide. Costs to residents and City to remove
and dispose of vegetative debris. Cost to City to meet vegetation standards on
City property.
Costs $ Ordinance change can be accomplished with current funding and staffing
levels.
@@@ Implementation and enforcement of the updated ordinance will require
significant staff time.
$$$ Program support to help property owners meet the requirements will
require additional funding. Implementation would include an increased number
of ‘Free Chipper Days’ at a rate of roughly $1,800 per day to support
community efforts. The City may also support residents requesting the $2.20-
per-month charge per parcel for an additional green waste bin for a set period.
Grant applications have been submitted to help cover the cost of the increased
‘Chipper Days’. To encourage compliance, an additional 40 chipper days would
be offered prior to the July 1 deadline, for a total cost of $64,000.
Property owners not already in compliance will incur costs to remove
vegetation to meet updated vegetation standards.
Stakeholders All property owners in San Rafael, both public and private. Fire Department.
Public Works.
Timeline The ordinance update establishing city wide vegetation standards is prepared
to be presented at an upcoming community meeting, with the formal adoption
process to follow. Education, outreach, and assistance with vegetation removal
for property owners will begin within 30 days of the ordinance passing.
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2. Apply vegetation management standards citywide
Action Ordinance change. Update SRMC to apply all wildfire, building
codes and ordinances citywide. No boundary would limit where
these provisions are applied.
What this
means
Requirements that are currently applied only to parcels in the WUI would be
applicable to all parcels within the City of San Rafael. New ordinances will
outline new citywide vegetation standards. References to the WUI will be
removed from specific ordinances, in order to apply them citywide.
Rationale Uniform application of all vegetation management and fire prevention related
codes and ordinances are easier to apply and enforce and create more wildfire
defensible community. Increased public safety and defensible space
throughout San Rafael. Additional income for fire prevention through
additional building permit fees.
Concerns Public will have varying costs to meet new vegetation management standards.
Would require staff training on updated Municipal Code. High cost burden for
properties not currently up to the new code. High cost to obtain compliance
with new code; could trigger substantial rehab/ or tax reassessment, and
possible new insurance costs. Could disincentivize development.
Costs $$$ Costs to support residents meeting updated standards and assuring city
property meets standards will require additional funding.
@ Ordinance updates can be updated with existing staff
@@@ Outreach, education, and enforcement will require additional staffing.
Stakeholders Fire Department, Building Department, residents, businesses, landowners,
Marin Builders Associations,
Timeline Universal vegetation standards are incorporated into the proposed SRMC
addition, 4.11 prepared to be presented at an upcoming community meeting
with formal adoption to follow. Additional effort is needed to determine the
best way to update and apply building codes universally.
3. Adopt Public Resource Code 4290 and 4291
Action Ordinance change. Adopt Public Resources Code (PRC) sections
4290 and 4291, which serve as guidelines for defensible space
and fuel management regulations.
What this
means
At a minimum, San Rafael vegetation standards will meet the state minimum
outlined in PRC sections 4290 and 4291. Proposed amendments to the
language would apply the standards citywide.
Rationale Adopting PRC sections 4290 and 4291 assures San Rafael compiles with State
vegetation management standards and simplifies the existing San Rafael
vegetation management standards. PRC sections 4290 and 4291 do not relax
our existing codes. Adopting PRC sections 4290 and 4291 would also allow for
immediate enforcement of PRC changes.
Concerns If PRC sections 4290 or 4291 is revised in the future in ways that are deemed
detrimental to the city, those additional municipal code amendments may be
necessary.
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Costs $ Ordinance change can be accomplished with current funding and staffing
levels.
$$$ Providing support to homeowners meeting the updated vegetation
standards, through chipper days and increased inspections will require
additional funding.
@@@ Implementation and enforcement of the updated ordinance will require
more staff time than currently available.
Stakeholders Fire Department, property owners
Timeline Incorporated into SRMC 4.11 which is prepared to be presented in an
upcoming community meeting with formal adoption to follow. Enforcement
would begin July 1, 2020.
4. Reduce ember ignitions within immediate structure ignition
zone standards
Action Ordinance change. Update SRMC Title 4 (“Fire”) to include a
series of standards outlined below near structures.
What this
means
The perimeter around a structure would need to meet a set of standards
designed to reduce the likelihood of embers creating spot fires and igniting
structures, on or before July 1, 2020. These proposed standards may include a
selection of the proposed components:
a) Immediate area hardscape: no vegetation except for 3-inch grass or
succulent plants shall be present. Exemptions may be considered for
erosion control.
b) No vegetation in the zone shall make direct contact with the structure.
c) Hardwood trees are permitted within the zone provided they are well-
irrigated, limbed five feet or one-third of the tree height, and have five
feet between other tree canopies.
d) Any vegetation within the ignition zone shall not grow under a window,
stairs, decks, and combustible structures or encroach within two feet
thereof.
e) Vines and Ivy shall be well-irrigated and maintained to eliminate any
dead or dying material build-up.
f) Mulch or similar ground covering within the ignition zone is only
permitted when no contact is made with combustible exterior walls or
plants.
All properties requesting an exemption to vegetation standards are required to
complete a VMP and have approval from the Fire Chief.
Rationale If properly enforced, a series of vegetation and other fuel standards should
reduce structure ignitions during an active wildfire by reducing the combustible
fuel needed to develop embers into flames. Recent case studies show that
urban fire conflagrations are not spreading as a wall of fire, but rather as
embers starting hundreds of new fires. Reducing structural ignitability reduces
property loss and creates less fuel to continue spreading the fire. This
requirement accounts for embers falling from roofs and eaves onto the ground.
Concerns Cost to private and public property owners. Ability to enforce. Erosion control.
Costs @ Ordinance change can be implemented with current staff.
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@@@ Increased inspections and enforcement could not be accomplished with
current staffing levels. Increased public education and outreach.
$$$ Additional funding will be needed to support community vegetation
removal, such as free chipper days and assistance to low income property
owners.
Stakeholders All property owners in San Rafael, both public and private. Fire Department.
Code Enforcement.
Timeline The requirement, based in part on Mill Valley ordinance updates, can be
incorporated into the new SRMC section 4.11 and presented at an upcoming
community meeting, with the formal adoption process to follow. Property
owners would have until July 1, 2020 to comply.
5. Apply fire mitigation codes 365 days a year
Action Ordinance change. Update SRMC to remove any specific time
period of fire season. Results in smoking being prohibited in City
open space all year.
What this
means
There will be no dates associated with fire season, expanding the ability of the
Fire Chief to enforce fire safety regulations to prevent a wildfire in open
spaces. Smoking will explicitly be prohibited year-round within open spaces.
Currently, SRMC has some conflicting information and dates associated with
smoking prohibition and fire season.
Rationale Increased safety, clarity, and consistency within municipal code. Improved
ability to protect community from a wildfire ignited in the open space.
Concerns Enforcement is challenging; signage is not very effective. Additional staff is
needed to enforce.
Costs $ Ordinance change can be accomplished with currently allocated funding.
@ Ordinance change can be accomplished with current staff.
@@@ Strong enforcement of open-space regulations requires additional staff.
Stakeholders Fire Department, Police Rangers, Public
Timeline An update to SRMC 19.10.060(13) is prepared for presentation at a community
meeting with formal adoption to follow. Enforcement would begin immediately
after adoption.
6. Eliminate fire hazard associated with shake and wooden
roofs
Action Ordinance change. Update building code to require all shake roofs
be replaced by January 1, 2029 or at time of resale, whichever is
first. Require no shake roof structures be eligible for resale.
What this
means
Property owners and owners of commercial property with shake roofs will
have 10 years to replace their roofs with a safer material and shake roofs will
no longer be allowed in new construction. This will effectively result in the
near-complete elimination of shake roofs from San Rafael by 2029.
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Rationale This ordinance would eliminate a known threat to structures and public,
decreasing potential ignition and the rate and intensity of the spread of fire.
This would in turn increase safety for firefighters and first responders. Per the
2016 Marin County Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP), “homes with
a non-combustible roof and defensible space at least 30 to 60 feet around the
structure have an 85-95% chance of survival”.
Concerns Roof replacement could be prohibitively expensive for some homeowners and
businesses. Scope of issue (i.e., number of shake roofs) is unknown at this tim e
and may require a roof census. An exemption for historical structures should
be considered. Fine for having a shake roof after the deadline will need to be
substantial to encourage compliance.
Costs $$$ Property owners will incur large cost to replace roof. Assistance programs
should be considered to encourage compliance. The City will also need to
replace any wooden roofs on city owned buildings.
@ Ordinance change, education, and enforcement can be supported with
current staffing levels.
Stakeholders Fire Department, Community Development, Residents, Businesses
Timeline The updated building code can be prepared to be introduced at an upcoming
community meeting. The re-sale requirement would become effective within
30 days. There will be a ten-year period of compliance to minimize financial
hardships. Inventory of structures with shake roofs can be completed by CERT
volunteers and/or the use of drones within twelve months. Assistance
programs, including hazard mitigation grants, should be considered over the
implementation period.
IMMEDIATE PROJECTS AND PROGRAMS
The following projects and programs are underway or can be started with existing funds and
staff.
7. Increase funding and resources available for wildfire
mitigation
Action City project. Seek to establish new funding avenues, partnerships,
and revenue opportunities, including but not limited to grant
funding, work with conservation corps, and volunteers.
What this
means
San Rafael is applying to numerous grant programs for funding to help reduce
the fire risk. Grant funding may provide one-time funding sources to help
reduce heavy fuel loading. To accomplish this objective San Rafael will also
seek and review project bids from non-traditional labor pools such as the
Conservation Corps of the North Bay, AmeriCorps NCCC, Cal Fire Delta crews,
and County fire crews.
Rationale Heavy fuel loads create dangerous situations throughout the area. Aggressive
strategies are needed to mitigate the current risk while implementing a long-
term fuel maintenance program. Current funding and resources are not
adequate to quickly reduce decades of fuel build up. Finding additional funding
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sources and utilizing new crews will be necessary to address the wildfire risk in
a timely manner.
Concerns Grant applications and management require substantial effort. Some grant
funds may not be available within the desired timeline. Effective use of various
crews will require strategic management. Grants are one-time applications and
do not provide an ongoing, predictable funding source for long term strategic
fuel management. Fuel maintenance will require additional funding to prevent
new fuel build ups.
Costs $$ - Grant applications can be submitted with the current program budget.
Some grants have matching fund requirements that may require reprioritizing
of programming.
@@ Grant applications can be submitted with existing staff reallocating time.
Grant management and tracking will require additional time reallocations. Crew
management will require reallocation or additional staff time.
Stakeholders Fire Department, Public Works, Finance
Timeline In progress. Various projects, grants, and labor options are currently being
explored. CAL FIRE prevention grants award notices will be in April with
funding available in September of 2019. Hazard Mitigation Grants are due in
April of 2019. A National Civilian Conservation Corps (NCCC) project concept
form has been approved and a full project proposal will be submitted before
February 12th, 2019. If approved, crews would be available between April and
July of 2019 for six to twelve weeks.
8. Immediately seize ignition sources at encampments and
remove encampments as quickly as possible.
Action City program. Continue collaborative Homeless Emergency Action
Team (HEAT) efforts to limit homeless encampments’ fire risk.
What this
means
Continue immediate removal of flammable items and ignition sources posing a
fire threat. Continue collaborative effort and improve coordination between
Police Rangers, Public Works, Fire, and vegetation contractors to remove
homeless encampments in open spaces.
Rationale Eliminate potential ignition sources. Strong enforcement may serve as a
deterrent.
Concerns Resources required to store seized belongings.
Costs $$$ The additional removal and storing of items will require additional funding.
@@@ Additional staff time is needed to effectively monitor open spaces year-
round.
Stakeholders Fire, Police, Public Works, Homeless Planning and Outreach
Timeline Ongoing. Continually update strategies based on new case law and best
practices.
9. Additional Vegetation Management staff
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Action City staffing. Convert the existing part-time employee to full-
time, fixed-term. Hire an additional part time employee to support
inspections, project management, and public education in the
spring and summer of 2019.
What this
means
Increased staff levels will allow for a more strategic approach to vegetation
management and fire mitigation while staff continues to offer inspections.
There are currently 1.5 Vegetation management specialists.
Rationale Additional staff is needed to meet the demand for strategic fuel removal, fire
road improvements, increased outreach/education, increased number of
VMPs, and vegetation inspections. On-going maintenance will require less
staffing to assure parcels and public space remain free of hazardous fuel loads.
Additional staff can also help support volunteer efforts in open space,
following Marin County model.
Concerns Funding the position may require voters to approve additional revenue
stream(s), which likely would mean FY 2020 at earliest.
Costs $$$ The fully burdened position will cost an additional $76,000 annually.
@ Recruitment, onboarding, and training can be managed by current staff.
Stakeholders Fire Department, residents, businesses, public
Timeline Research needed into best funding approach for position as well as timeline.
Increasing staff hours can begin immediately with funding. Recruitment will be
necessary to hire and train a seasonal vegetation inspector.
10. Increase Police Ranger staffing
Action City staffing. Provide for one full-time fixed-term police Ranger in
addition to the two part-time police rangers currently employed
to patrol open spaces.
What this
means
Increased ranger capability will allow for year-round open-space unlawful
camping enforcement.
Rationale A full-time ranger will allow for increased patrols and enforcements while also
identifying and noticing homeless encampments sooner. Preventing
encampments from becoming well established will help reduce fire risks.
Concerns Funding the position may require voters to approve additional revenue
stream(s), which likely would mean FY 2020 at earliest. Legal limitations on
removal of campsites may limit effectiveness of enforcement, even with more
personnel.
Costs $$$ The cost of fully-burdened Professional Temporary Ranger position will be
about $101,000 per year. Measure A funding currently supports two-part time
positions. Additional funding is needed to support the request.
@ Recruitment and training of the additional position can be supported with
current staffing.
Stakeholders Police Department, Public Works
Timeline Additional funding is necessary before recruitment can begin.
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11. Improve public education regarding fire-safe landscaping
and planning for a wildfire
Action SRFD program. Outreach and education efforts, including
information about areas of refuge, emergency alerts, defensible
space, and reducing structure ignitability will be conducted
citywide.
What this
means
Additional outreach and online resources will be created to support firesafe
landscaping. Outreach will target residents, nurseries, and community groups
with an emphasis on gardening and landscaping. Current outreach is focused
on WUI areas. This item includes an expansion of outreach and improved
online resources. In addition, education and outreach materials will be updated
to reflect lessons learned from recent wildfires, including helping residents
understand wildfire evacuations and areas of refuge.
Rationale Education and outreach efforts need to be expanded to adequality reach the
entire community. Residents want to maintain a beautiful community while
increasing fire safety. Additional education and outreach is needed to assure
residents are landscaping with wildfire risks in mind. Residents are concerned
about wildfire evacuations and need to be better informed to make quick
decisions. San Rafael needs to incorporate lessons learned from over devasting
fires in our wildfire prevention and preparedness efforts.
Concerns Multiple outreach strategies are needed to reach various demographics.
Volunteer coordination can be time consuming and unreliable.
Costs @@ Updating online materials, developing new outreach materials, and
contacts with residents can be completed with current staff reallocating time
and the support of volunteers.
$$$ Additional funding is needed to expand outreach, including printing
additional materials, citywide.
Stakeholders Fire Department, Community organizations, property owners, Open
Government and Digital Services
Timeline Outreach and education regarding updated ordinances will begin immediately
following approval. Updates and lessons learned will be incorporated into
future community presentations. Extensive outreach campaign will occur in the
Spring of 2019 to align with fire season and vegetation inspections.
12. Increase capability for early fire warnings and detection
Action City program and policy. Increase San Rafael’s access and control
to partner technology, including cameras with heat detection and
micro-weather stations. Install two additional cameras to cover
the highest fire risk areas in San Rafael.
What this
means
PG&E has and continues to install cameras and micro-weather stations to
monitor fire and fire weather conditions. Only a limited number of County Fire
employees can currently control the view on the cameras. The live stream of
the existing cameras is publicly available at
http://www.alertwildfire.org/northbay/. To increase the camera coverage of
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San Rafael, new cameras could be installed on San Rafael Hill and San Pedro
Ridge. San Rafael Fire staff could have direct control of the view and zoom of
these additional cameras.
Rationale Cameras would allow for increased ability to monitor open space, which in turn
could mean early wildfire identification and response, increased knowledge of
weather conditions impacting fire spread, and increased fire fighter safety. The
ability to directly control cameras monitoring San Rafael increases internal
capabilities and reduces the delay and reliance on third parties.
Concerns Access to monitoring technology is determined through partnerships.
Costs @ Efforts are supported with currently allocated staff time. No significant
impact on other programming is anticipated.
$$ Expanding the existing camera network with a greater focus on San Rafael
will have additional costs. The camera’s costs about $5,000 each. PG&E grants
may be available to help cover the costs of the cameras.
Stakeholders PG&E, Fire Department, Marin County Fire
Timeline Discussions to install new cameras and/or gain further access to existing
camera are ongoing. Installation of new cameras will require funding and an
agreement with the site owners in the desired locations. Improved
coordination with wildfire monitoring partners and new technology will be in
place in the Summer of 2019.
13. Improve public emergency alerting capabilities and policies
Action City project and county policy. In coordination with Marin
County, develop a proactive policy for the use of Wireless
Emergency Alerts (WEA) during emerging situations. Establish
templates that clearly communicate risk and follow up
information sources. Enhance internal capabilities.
What this
means
Currently, the City of San Rafael relies on Marin County for non-opt in
messaging. The City’s internal ability to message is limited to SRPD’s Nixle
subscription, which only reaches those who opt-in for messaging. This item has
two interacting parts; 1) a clear policy for when and how San Rafael can
request the county issue emergency alerts on its behalf and; 2) Consideration
of upgrading the internal ability to send messages that do not require users to
opt-in. In both situations, policies, templates, and coordination will be needed.
Considerations should also be given to other alerting methods including NOAA
weather radios, Sirens, or coordinated community efforts.
Rationale Assure policy and templates in place empower WEA message to be sent if
threat exists. Reduce likelihood that a message won’t be sent that should have
been sent. Reduce risk for loss of life. WEA messaging was NOT issued during
the North Bay fires of 2017 or the Butte County Camp Fire in 2018. Internally
the City needs to improve its messaging capabilities, including access, training,
and policies, to assure communication with residents in time of crisis.
Concerns Over messaging. Causing panic or undue traffic congestion during evacuation.
Messaging may over reach to nonimpacted areas. Coordination between
County and City alerting authorities.
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Costs $$$ To allow San Rafael the direct ability to message, without requiring a user
opt-in, an annual $6,000 increase in SRPD’s Nixle subscription is expected.
@@ Efforts can be accomplished with existing staff reallocating time. The
objective will require coordination between San Rafael PD, San Rafael Fire, and
Marin County.
Stakeholders County OES, MCSO, SROES, SRPD, SRFD, Residents
Timeline Research and discussions are in progress. A streamlined policy will rely on
agreement from Marin County Sheriff’s Office. A vendor meeting with Nixle,
January 10th, provided additional information on upgrades to San Rafael’s
current Nixle subscription.
14. Complete an analysis of fire roads and strategic fuel breaks
Action SRFD and DPW project. Develop a plan for a survey of all San
Rafael fire roads to identify areas in need of strategic surface
improvements, to be used as fuel breaks, and that need
vegetation clearance for safe access.
What this
means
Identify high risk areas and assure the fire road surface and clearance will
remain accessible. Increase fuel clearance along strategic fire roads (such as
ridge lines) to create significant fuel breaks to stop or slow fire spread.
Rationale Fire roads provide critical access to fire personnel to access and contain
existing fires. Fire roads also serve as fuel breaks. Increasing fuel clearance
along fire roads helps protect responders using the roads and creates existing
fuel breaks to limit a fire’s spread.
Concerns High costs and potential environmental impact to implement.
Costs $$$ Additional funding, possibly via grants, is required to retain contracted
labor to establish initial fuel breaks and fire road improvements.
$$$ Reoccurring costs will include maintenance of fuel breaks and road
surfaces. It is possible to support some maintenance with reprogramming of
existing budget and renewal of Measure A funds; however, comprehensive
efforts will require an additional funding source.
@@ Analysis of roads and potential fuel breaks can be completed by existing
staff reallocating time.
@@@ Maintenance will require current staff to reduce time spent on
inspections and other projects. Developing and implementing a comprehensive
and strategic maintenance plan will require additional staffing.
Stakeholders Fire Department, Public Works, public using fire roads, agencies with
connecting fire roads
Timeline In progress. Road and fuel break analysis is underway. Fire road surface
maintenance is an ongoing effort. Additional focus and funds are needed to
develop and implement a more strategic and effective approach. The timeline
for implementing findings will be dependent on funding.
15. Expand goat grazing for vegetation maintenance
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Action SRFD program update. Increase the use of goat grazing through
cooperative relationships with contractors, FireSafe Marin, Marin
County and other land-owning agencies.
What this
means
San Rafael currently leases goats from private industry for specific times
throughout the year. The city is working to gain access to the County’s new
goat resources for open-space vegetation clearance. In addition, new
contractors are being considered to help meet the demand and reduce per acre
cost. Coordination will also occur between various public and private
landowners.
Rationale Coordained grazing reduces the costs associated with transporting the goats to
new sites and creates more continuous fuel breaks. Goats are an effective way
to manage reoccurring fuels, such as grasses and French Broom. Reducing
mechanical removal of fuels, such as mowers and weed eaters, also reducing
carbon emissions.
Concerns Goats and vegetation management contractors are in high demand. Goats are
most cost effective on larger treatment areas. In 2018, over $80,000 was spent
on goat grazing.
Costs $$$ Additional funding is needed to expand the goat grazing program and
maintain fuel reduction work. Cost saving associated with reduced transport
will support increased acreage.
@ Goat grazing coordination can be accomplished with current staff.
A recent grazing estimate was $900 an acre and $2,500 per transport. At least
55 acres need annual treatment, which will cost about $65,000 annually.
Stakeholders Fire Department, Public Works, FireSafe Marin, Marin County Fire
Timeline In progress. Contract negotiations are underway. Goats will be available in
late winter/early spring 2019. The majority of goat grazing is completed before
July 1st and peak fire season. Grazing is needed annually.
16. Assure that residents can evacuate through garage doors if
power is out
Action City program. Develop program to encourage the implementation
of garage door battery backup systems.
What this
means
San Rafael Code Enforcement will need to start enforcing updated safety
requirements for automatic garage doors. San Rafael Fire will immediately
begin incorporating garage door functionality into evacuation and wildfire
preparedness material. San Rafael could consider applying this standard to
rental properties and/or encouraging battery back-up installation on legacy
garage doors.
Rationale Power failures, impacting the functionality of automatic garage doors, can
make evacuation by car impossible during an emergency. Effective, July 1,
2019, Senate Bill 969 requires all new and replacement automatic garage doors
to have a backup battery or other means that assures the garage door can
open in the event of a power failure. The new law does not have a retroactive
requirement. Public education is necessary to alert people of the risk and
Wildfire Prevention and Protection Action Plan January
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relatively low-cost solutions available, as not everyone has the physical ability
to open a garage door manually.
Concerns The update to Health & Safety Code Section 19891 and addition to Section
19892 do not retroactively apply or protect people with existing garages.
Outreach can help inform, but not require adherence to stronger safety
requirements.
Costs @@ Staff time to develop and coordinate information will require some time
reallocation
$$ Educational materials and outreach will require some reprogramming but
can largely be incorporated into other wildfire prevention and protection
outreach.
Stakeholders Fire Department, Code Enforcement, Property owners.
Timeline The Senate Bill requires installations and replacements on or after July 1, 2019
meet the new requirements. Education and outreach about this new
requirement should begin immediately.
17. Improve development and implementation of Vegetation
Management Plans (VMPs)
Action City program and policy. Streamline the VMP process to support
an increase in the number of Vegetation Management Plans.
VMPs can be self-certified and will provide a reference for future
inspections or developing concerns.
What this
means
SRFD will take the lead to streamline and automate the current Vegetation
Management Plan forms and review process. Vegetation Management Plans
will serve as a resource for enforcement with minimal maintenance effort.
Ordinance changes will require more VMPs be submitted. Property owners
completing the work outlines in the VMPs may need City support for
vegetation removal, such as participation in ‘free chipper’ days.
Rationale An improved and more accessible VMP process will help more homeowners
establish and maintain fire resistant landscaping. Fire-resistant landscaping will
help keep the whole community safe by reducing the chances of ignition and
fire spread. An improved system will be necessary to support the additional
VMPs submitted because of ordinance changes.
Concerns Developing a comprehensive, but simple system will be a challenge and require
input from multiple stakeholders and staff.
Costs $$ Any costs associated with improvements can be funded by reallocating
existing funds
@@ Updates and improvements can be completed with existing fire staff
reallocating time, and support from other departments.
Stakeholders Fire Department, Code Enforcement, Property Owners, Open Government and
Digital Services
Timeline Updates to streamline VMPs can begin after a review of the existing process,
plan goals, and technical evaluation.
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18. Assure that appropriate staff can send and receive
emergency alerts
Action City program. Establish schedule to assure that all appropriate San
Rafael staff members routinely issue Everbridge test messages.
Maintain current database of all staff contact information to
assure communication with staff during an emergency.
What this
means
Staff with Everbridge/alerting capability will be required to send test messages
at least quarterly to assure access and proficiency. Staff will have templates
and training materials to help develop proficiency. Citywide effort is needed to
assure correct cell phone numbers are on file and can be used to reach staff in
an emergency. Routine message tests will help maintain an accurate database.
Rationale All staff with the authority to issue alerts must be able to log in and navigate
the system to send time-sensitive information. A centralized system to
communicate with staff in an emergency is necessary to confirm staff safety
and communicate closures and requested actions.
Concerns Potential to issue test messages broadly. Lack of participation. Ongoing
database management is time consuming.
Costs $ Program can be implemented with current funding.
@@ Program will require multiple staff members reallocate time for testing and
database management.
Stakeholders San Rafael Staff with emergency alert capabilities (about 10 people),
Department Heads, Human Resources, All City staff
Timeline A ‘how to” guide is already created. Once City management agrees to the value
of the tests, a routine test schedule can be developed and implemented.
Maintaining an accurate alerting database is an ongoing process that will
require an established process.
19. Reduce fuels along roadways
Action City program and policy. Develop a policy to clearly direct the
enforcement of current State regulations and SRMC relating to
vegetation clearance along public roadways. Updates to SRMC
may also be needed to uniformly apply standards.
What this
means
Stronger and more consistent enforcement and abatement of vegetation along
roadways with a focus on pre-identified primary and secondary evacuation
routes.
Rationale Reduces the risk of fire ignition along roadways. Improves potential evacuation
routes by limiting the fire fuel along roadways. Creates additional fuel breaks
to stop and slow the spread of wildfire. Increased responder safety through
improved visibility and decreased roadside fuel.
Concerns Residents may be resistant to remove vegetation along roadways serving as a
privacy fence for their property. Disposal of large amounts of woody biomass.
Costs $$$ Additional funding is needed to support community chipper days and
support for property owners removing vegetation.
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@@ Policy can be developed with current staff reallocating time
@@@ Additional staff time is needed to effectively enforce policy and support
community chipper days.
Stakeholders Fire Department, Public Works, property owners
Timeline A policy can be drafted within 60 days. Enforcement can begin immediately.
Fall and Winter are slower times for vegetation inspections, allowing for a
concentrated effort relating to clearance along roadways. Community support,
including chipper days, cannot begin until additional funding is secured.
Additional evaluation is needed to determine what, if any, SRMC changes may
be needed.
20. Reduce fuels around critical infrastructure
Action SRFD program. In partnership with utility providers, determine
best method(s) to reduce fuels around critical infrastructure such
as power poles, power lines, and other combustible infrastructure.
What this
means
The City will initiate an effort to identify the best approaches to vegetation
management activities around critical infrastructure. This will include
coordination with PG&E and Marin Municipal Water District (MMWD).
Potential ordinance changes will be evaluated.
Rationale Reduce the risk of fire ignition and protect critical infrastructure from fire.
Share burden of protecting infrastructure with property owners and utility
providers.
Concerns Property owner confusion regarding the burden of maintaining clearance
around the service lines from the pole to the structure. Aesthetics of
vegetation and tree trimming and removal. Difficult to determine which
homeowner is responsible for the cost of tree trimming. Jurisdictional issues
also may be involved.
Costs $$$ Funding needs will depend on partnerships with PG&E and other agencies
responsible for maintaining infrastructure. Support for residents removing fuel
around infrastructure on their property will require additional funding.
@@ A policy can be developed with current staff reprioritizing projects.
Stakeholders Fire Department, Public Works, Community Development, property owners,
PG&E
Timeline In Progress. Guidelines for fuel reduction around critical infrastructure are
being established and coordinated with utilities. Outreach and education can
begin within 30 days of policy being finalized. Programs to support residents
will be dependent on securing additional funding.
21. Assure that City staff can communicate during an emergency
Action City program. Determine and implement the best method to
assure city staff with assigned emergency response duties can use
cell phones and landlines. This will require a combination of
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Wireless Priority Service (WPS), First Net, and Government
Emergency Telecommunications Service (GETS).
What this
means
Complete a cost-benefit analysis of using WPS, Verizon First Responder, and
GETS options. Register all Fire, PD, DPW field staff, building inspectors, and
EOC staff with WPS and/or Verizon priority accounts. A policy for personal cell
phones registered on the system will need to be established.
Rationale The ability to communicate via cell phone after a disaster is negatively
impacted by infrastructure damage and peak usage. There are tools available to
help cell phone providers prioritize responder traffic. Acting now will limit the
impact on communications during an emergency.
Concerns Staff time to implement. Data management and maintenance of multiple tools.
Costs $ There is no cost directly associated with these programs.
@@ Staff time will be needed to initially enroll all designated phones, estimated
to be about 200. Routine maintenance will be required.
Stakeholders Impacted agency staff, City Information Technology
Timeline WPS access can be requested immediately with cell phone account
information. More research is needed to understand the new Verizon
responder accounts and potential costs. GETS access can be requested
immediately after determining additional needs. Usage policy can be developed
within 120 days.
22. Establish more Firewise communities in San Rafael
Action SRFD program. Conduct outreach to identify communities
interested in becoming Firewise and support them throughout the
process.
What this
means
SRFD will dedicate time and effort to help additional communities meet
“Firewise” standards. This will include increased education, disaster
preparedness, and fuel reduction. There are currently three Firewise
communities within the SRFD response area.
Rationale Firewise is a National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) program that
“teaches people how to adapt to living with wildfire and encourages neighbors
to work together and take action now to prevent losses.” The program
provides valuable educational information and a roadmap that helps make San
Rafael neighborhoods more resilient.
Concerns Staff time
Costs $ There is minimal additional cost associated with the Firewise program.
Programs of cost, such as community chipper days, are aligned with the overall
City fuel reduction initiative, therefor do not represent new costs.
@@ Firewise communities can be supported with current staff reallocating
time.
Stakeholders Fire Department, Homeowners Associations and Neighborhood groups,
property owners
Timeline In progress. Two new Firewise communities were recognized for the first time
in 2018 and more are expected in 2019.
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23. Review and update WUI map
Action SRFD project and resolution. Review and update the San Rafael
WUI map for more practical application and consistency with
County and other land management agencies maps.
What this
means
SRFD will review and update the WUI map for consistency between maps and
application of WUI code. The map will be simplified and updated to apply
current fire behavior expectations to WUI boundaries.
Rationale The current San Rafael WUI map has variations between jurisdictions and does
not accurately reflect the threat posed to many areas in or near the currently
defined WUI. Updating will improve education, vegetation management, and
fire prevention efforts. Maintaining a designated WUI can help with resource
prioritization, grant funding, and State code application.
Concerns Potential insurance and code compliance changes for property owners being
added to the WUI.
Costs $ Review and updates can be completed with existing funds.
@@ Review, coordination, and map development will require existing staff to
reallocate time.
Stakeholders Fire Department, property owners, land management agencies with current
San Rafael WUI maps.
Timeline 160 days is needed for internal review and coordination with partners. The
updated map will be presented to City Council within 60 days of completion to
be adopted through a resolution.
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PLANNED ORDINANCE CHANGES
The following items are proposed to be developed into ordinance changes and adoption at a
later date.
24. Apply CA Fire Code 7A (fire resistant building material
requirements) to additional structures
Action Ordinance change. Review and propose updates to SRMC to
apply CA Fire Code 7A outside the WUI and to additional
structures.
What this
means
7A outlines the materials and construction methods to reduce potential
structure ignition during a wildfire for new construction and substantial
remodels (50%) within the WUI. Updates to SRMC will apply 7A to a broader
list of improvement and all new construction, regardless of WUI proximity. A
potential list of improvements requiring 7A compliance anywhere in the City
may include, reroofing, additions, remodels impacting 25% of the unit, adding
alternative energy (solar panels, Tesla Roof, etc.), and utility replacement.
Rationale Increase compliance with known fire prevention methods, including fire
resistant building materials. Include all structures to reduce likelihood of an
urban fire conflagration.
Concerns Potential to discourage otherwise positive improvements because of additional
costs associated with 7A compliance. Potential to discourage compliance with
permits and inspections for fear of additional costs to meet 7A requirements.
Costs $ Reviewing and updating the SRMC can be completed with available funds.
Additional permits may increase revenue.
$$$ Construction costs may increase for property owners. Additional permits
may be required.
@@ Research, review and proposed SRMC updates can be completed with
current staff reallocating time.
Stakeholders Fire Department, Community Development, Marin Builder’s Association.
Timeline Additional research, review, and stakeholder input can be completed within
120 days, followed by a 60-day period to finalize proposed SRMC updates. Fire
and Building Code adoptions will occur in concert with other agencies during
2019.
25. Establish a residential hillside “parking box” program
Action Ordinance change and City project. Establish a residential hillside
“parking box” program on narrow roadways in hillside areas.
Parking will only be permitted in “boxed” areas which are
designed to assure emergency vehicles can access all streets in
San Rafael.
What this
means
An ordinance change will establish the parking box program and require that in
designated areas, street parking will only be permitted in designated parking
Wildfire Prevention and Protection Action Plan January
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boxes. A Fire engine will drive through high problem areas and be used to
determine where street parking can safely be designated. DPW then will mark
the parking boxes, and enforcement will occur via parking tickets and/or
towing. Parking will only be permitted on roadways with a clear space of 10’
for access and a parking area that is a minimum of 8’ wide by 15’ in length. In
designated areas, the parking box ordinance will replace the six feet from
center parking ordinance.
Rationale SRMC 5.40.080 currently prohibits parking on narrow street unless six (6) feet
from center is maintained unobstructed. This standard is confusing, hard to
enforce, and does not guarantee fire engines and other large vehicles can
safely access all areas of San Rafael. The “parking box” concept is easy to
observe and understand for both residents and visitors.
Concerns Loss of parking spaces in impacted areas, traffic congestion during
implementation, public cost and impact on other projects.
Costs $$$ Implementing and program maintenance will require additional funding.
Simplified regulations will support strong enforcement may result in increased
ticketing revenue.
@@ The ordinance and program can be implemented with existing staff
reallocating time. Contractors may need to be considered based on other
concurrent priorities.
Stakeholders Fire Department, Public Works, Parking Enforcement, Residents
Timeline Within 180 days, a draft ordinance and proposed pilot project will be
developed. Implementation will be dependent on funds, staff, and project
prioritization. A full implementation could be completed in FY 2020.
26. Increase the number of completed VMPs
Action Ordinance change. Require Vegetation Management Plans
(VMPs) be completed for any of the following: All new
construction, home improvements impacting more than 25% of
the structure, replacing roofing or windows, all community owned
space (i.e. HOA shared land), etc.
What this
means
Rather than changing the definition of Substantial Remodel, requiring VMPs for
specific projects and thresholds will increase the number of plans without
impacting other areas of the existing building code. A VMP would be required
for any property requesting an exemption from vegetation standards.
Rationale Increasing Vegetation Management plans will help reduce and remove fuels.
VMPs help property owners understand the impact that landscaping choices
impact the threat of wildfire. Increasing number of VMPs required will increase
public education and provide property owners with a path for more fire-
resistant landscaping.
Concerns The current VMP template and process will need to be streamlined to
accommodate an increase in number of VMPs while minimizing impact to
property owners.
Costs A streamlined VMP process will reduce staff costs. The VMPs will be a
resource for inspectors and should require minimal maintenance. Having VMPs
to reference will support staff enforcement efforts and reduce reinspection's.
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Stakeholders SRFD, Community Development, Homeowners and Property Management
companies
Timeline The ordinance change requiring all new construction to develop a VMP is
prepared to be introduced is prepared to be presented at an upcoming
community meeting, with the formal adoption process to follow. Additional
ordinance changes expanding the requirements for VMPs can be brought forth
within 120 days. Enforcement of changes will begin after the VMP template
and process is updated. Update to vegetation standards will be reflected on the
updated template.
27. Incorporate VMPs into residential property sales or transfers
Action Ordinance change. Vegetation management plan approval will be
part of residential building resale (RBR) inspections or if the
property is transferred to a new owner (inheritance, donated, etc.)
or the zoning or use of the building changes (including listed for
short-term rental).
What this
means
VMPs will become a part of the RBR process in some format to be determined,
such as an advisory document. Property ownership/use transfers would
include a VMP.
Rationale Additional VMPs will reduce hazardous fuels and increase defensible space.
New property owners will be educated on fire safe landscaping. Incorporating
the VMP process into an established process will help increase VMP
compliance. VMPs will not hold up a transfer and are advisory documents.
Concerns Potential for additional fees for private property owners. Coordination required
between Fire and Building inspectors.
Costs Staff time should be offset by increased fee revenue.
Stakeholders Building inspectors, Fire Department, Marin Association of Relators
Timeline VMPs can be incorporated into existing RBR process within 90 days. Research
is needed to determine the best method to assuring VMPs are completed with
other changes in ownership and usage.
28. Prevent potential entrapments by requiring 2 gates in any
fence in designated areas
Action Ordinance change. Update building code to require new and
replacement fences have two gates. Existing fences within
designated single-lane access parcels must install 2 gates.
What this
means
Designated parcels would be required to have more than one means and
direction of egress in the event of a wildfire or other emergency. Fences over
two (2) feet tall will be required to have two gates, accessing different cardinal
directions installed. This will include new fences, replaced fences, and at
property resale.
Rationale This would help assure that multiple escape routes exist in the most vulnerable
areas and provide ease of access for firefighters.
Wildfire Prevention and Protection Action Plan January
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Concerns Cost burden for property owners not currently up to the new code.
Enforcement.
Costs $ Ordinance change can be accomplished with current funding.
@@ Public education and ordinance enforcement would require reprioritization
of staff time.
Stakeholders Fire Department, Code Enforcement, Marin Association of Realtors, property
owners
Timeline An updated ordinance, incorporating stakeholder input, can be brought to City
Council within 160 days. Updates may be incorporated into the 2019 planned
code updates.
29. Reduce fire risk and keep visitors using short-term rentals
safe
Action Ordinance change and City project. Develop requirements for
short-term rental units to reduce the risk posed by and to visitors.
Require all short-term rental units to post emergency procedures,
information on signing up for emergency alerts, and fire safety
information. All short-term rentals will be required to have a
Vegetation Management Plan (VMP) on file.
What this
means
Visitors, potentially unfamiliar with the area or wildfire risk, will be informed
about the emergency procedures and can register for emergency alerts during
their stay. Vegetation Management Plans will be required for any rental any
property in San Rafael to help reduce a potential ignition.
Rationale Short-term rentals represent a unique fire risk for a variety of reasons. Those
using short-term rentals may be from out of the area and unfamiliar with
wildfire risk and safety procedures. The information will help assure the safety
of visitors and provide important fire prevention information to visitors
unfamiliar with wildfire risks and necessary ignition precautions. Having a VMP
will help assure the property is safe, unlikely to ignite from a careless visitor,
and support enforcement of vegetation standards for property owners.
Concerns Increased cost of compliance could reduce the number of short-term rentals.
Potential for increased cost of permit processing and code enforcement.
Costs $ Ordinance change can be accomplished with current funding and staffing
levels. Potential revenue from fees and fines.
@@ Outreach, monitoring, and enforcement can be accomplished with current
staff reallocating time.
Stakeholders Fire Department, Code Enforcement, property owners renting space, visitors
Timeline In Progress. General guidelines are in development for short-term rentals units
and will include safety information requirements. Additional research is needed
to determine the best method for developing VMPs for short-term rental
properties.
PLANNED PROJECTS AND PROGRAMS
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The following are proposed projects and programs that require additional funding, staff, time, or
partner coordination to further develop.
30. Review and expand evacuation plans
Action City project. Review Countywide evacuation plans and consider
San Rafael’s unique needs and resources, including possible water
evacuations.
What this
means
Additional evacuation planning will establish additional redundancy's and
potentially reduce the burden on a single egress artery during an emergency.
These efforts will consider evacuating to areas of refuge during a fast-moving
wildfire.
Rationale San Rafael has multiple areas with limited egress options, due to water, open
space and narrow roads. San Rafael should review alternate options for
evacuation, including establishing agreements with Golden Gate Transit and
Dutra to support a water evacuation.
Concerns Evacuations are dynamic and situation dependent, making comprehensive
planning ineffective. Efforts may create false sense of security or avoidance of
individual planning.
Costs $ Planning efforts can be supported with current funding
@@ Efforts can be supported with current staff reallocating time.
Stakeholders Fire Department, Police Department, Golden Gate Transit, Dutra, Marin
County, Residents
Timeline Planning efforts are ongoing. Water evacuation planning can be established
throughout 2019 with collaboration from partners. Updated evacuation plans
will be incorporated in the City Emergency Operations Plan (EOP).
31. Develop comprehensive San Rafael hazardous vegetation
study and mitigation measures
Action City project. Contract with vendor for parcel level vegetation
mapping. Identify areas of with high risk vegetation, including
unmaintained Eucalyptus groves. Incorporate findings into
mitigation and vegetation maintenance plans.
What this
means
Studies will be conducted to gain a better understanding of high fuel density
and risk areas. Specific attention will be paid to Eucalyptus groves locations,
density and nearness to structures. This data and imagery will help inform
strategic vegetation management and forest health moving forward. For
example, an identified high-risk Eucalyptus grove may be scheduled for pruning
or thinning over the course of a few years, with ground fuel maintenance
(removing leaves, dead limbs, etc.) every three to five years thereafter.
Rationale Baseline information and imagery will help establish a comprehensive fuel
management strategy. Identifying high risk areas will prioritize projects and
available funding.
Concerns Cost. Forest health.
Costs $$$ Imagery and plan development will require additional funding.
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@@ Efforts can be supported with current staff reallocating time.
Stakeholders Fire Department, Public Works, Marin County
Timeline Funding for parcel level mapping was included in the Cal Fire Prevention Grant.
If approved, work could begin in September of 2019 and incorporated into the
fuel management plan for 2020.
32. Establish additional fuel interruption zones
Action SRFD and DPW program. Remove hazardous fuels within 30-50
feet of public property bordering private and improved land to
create fuel interruption zones.
What this
means
San Rafael will take on the cost and burden of clearing vegetation on San
Rafael owned and maintained land which abuts privately owned land or
developed land owned by another public entity. Fuel interruption zones consist
of low cut grasses, removed dead vegetation, and shaded fuel breaks.
Rationale San Rafael must do its part to reduce fuels, particularly in areas bordering other
property to assure efforts of one parcel are not negated by another's. This will
reduce fuels to limit fire ignition and spread in San Rafael Open Spaces and
help reduce the potential for a fire to spread from undeveloped to developed
land. Aligns with Marin CWPP transition zone strategy.
Concerns Cooperation and coordination with other public agencies and landowners may
be difficult.
Costs $$$ Efforts require extensive additional funding to achieve necessary results.
Based on past costs, the current list of fuel reduction projects for 2019 is over
$500,000.
Fire prevention and mitigation grants may help mitigate the cost. Measure A
funding cannot cover the necessary fuel reduction work. Measure A funding
can be used to support maintenance work once the significant fuel reduction is
completed. Additional funding is needed to full fund maintenance and prevent
additional fuel build ups.
@@@ Substantial staff time is needed to strategically manage projects,
contractors and conservation crews while continuing vegetation inspections
and educational programming.
Stakeholders Fire, Public Works, landowners, other public agencies
Timeline In progress. Fuel reduction work is ongoing but reliant on available funding. A
funding request to the Cal Fire, Fire Prevention Grant was submitted
December 19th, 2018 requests $922,000 to support fuel reduction in 2019 and
2020. Notifications of awards will be in April of 2019.
33. Engage CERT members in fire prevention
Action SRFD program. Develop program and training to enable San
Rafael CERT to support fuel reduction efforts through education,
outreach, and data gathering.
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What this
means
Utilize existing volunteers to supplement the outreach, education, and hazard
identification work of SRFD.
Rationale San Rafael has over 400 trained CERT members, many anxious for ways to be
more involved in disaster preparedness. Training and engaging CERT
volunteers will help increase public outreach and education and help inform
SRFDs vegetation inspection priorities. CERTS will utilize local knowledge and
willpower while building more resiliency through education and relationship
building. Volunteer hours dedicated to fuel reduction may be used as match
dollars for fire grants.
Concerns CERT safety and assuring the accurate distribution of information and data
collection.
Costs $ The program can be implemented with minimal cost and existing funds.
@ The program can be implemented with existing staff. Initially, some time will
need to be reallocated, but once active, CERT members will help save
inspectors time.
Stakeholders Fire Department, CERT members, Marin County CERT
Timeline In progress. San Rafael CERT steering committee is re-engaged and looking for
ways to stay involved in disaster preparedness and response during ‘blue skies’.
Training needs to be developed and presented by fire prevention staff. A pilot
program in a limited geographic can be rolled out within three months.
34. Reduce hazardous fuels through an abatement process on
privately owned unimproved lots
Action City Program. Develop program and policy to reduce hazardous
fuels through increased vegetation removal mandates and
abatements on unimproved lots. City and County ordinance and
policy changes may be required.
What this
means
After establishing a vacant parcel list, parcels will be inspected and noticed if
they do not comply with the updated vegetation management standards. A
public hearing will be conducted giving any property owner the opportunity to
commit to compliance within a set period. If property owners do not mitigate
the issue themselves, they will be fined and/or have the cost of the city
clearing the hazardous fuels charged to the them.
Rationale Many privately owned, unimproved parcels do not comply with vegetation
management standards and create safety risks for the entire community.
Establishing a consistent notification process, timeline for compliance, and
recharge process will help address these risks.
Concerns Potential challenges with recouping costs of abatement. Fines will need to be
substantial to encourage compliance.
Costs $$$ The City will have to cover the additional costs of clearing unimproved
hazardous property. Until costs are recuperated this will require additional
funding.
@@ Staff will need to establish a vacant parcel list, inspect, notice and inspect.
Coordinating contractor work as necessary with require additional staff time.
Stakeholders Fire Department, Public Works, Code Enforcement, Marin County, landowners
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Timeline Program can be developed and brought to council for approval within 90 days.
Coordination with the County may delay this process.
35. Reengage volunteer “Broom Pull Days”
Action City program. Work with the volunteer program to reestablish an
ongoing volunteer program to pull invasive Scotch and French
broom from public open space and high fire risk areas.
What this
means
A previous program saw a great deal of success removing and eliminating
French Broom in parts of San Rafael. Education and best practice materials
exist and can be re-used to support a reinvigoration of this effort. City staff will
be needed to support the effort and Law Enforcement may be required at the
start of projects to assure work areas are clear of encampments and other
threats.
Rationale This project will engage community will and volunteer labor to work on
eliminating French broom from high fire risk areas of San Rafael. Volunteer
programs provide a path for residents to directly reduce wildfire risks.
Volunteers will help reduce the need for contractors and support maintenance
in previously cleared areas.
Concerns Safety of volunteers. Time and effort needed to coordinate project sites,
registration, and volunteer safety and technique training. Potential community
conflicts over project areas.
Costs $$ Reallocated or new funding is needed to purchase tools and safety
equipment. Woody Biomass left on site will need to be removed.
@@ The program can be implemented with current staff reallocating time.
Additional staff time will help expand the project areas.
Stakeholders Fire Department, Public Works, Police Department, Sustainability and
Volunteer Program Coordinator
Timeline A volunteer project could be scheduled within 60 days of having the necessary
approvals, tools, safety equipment, and strategy in place.
36. Improve the public’s fire risk awareness with sign
improvements and installation
Action SRFD and DPW program. Install new and improve existing
signage at all open space access areas and along roads in high fire-
risk areas.
What this
means
Signs will be installed across City open space explaining fire danger and risks
associated with being in the open space. New signage will be installed in areas
of high fire risk to help keep public alert and avoid risky fire behavior. Staff will
need to survey all open space access points, and high fire risk areas to
determine sign needs.
Rationale Educate public and visitors. Support increased enforcement. Provide consistent
messaging. Improve aesthetics and readability of signs.
Concerns Aesthetic concerns of signs in natural areas. Potential to create culture of fear.
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Costs $$$ Additional funding will be needed to develop, produce, and install
improved signage.
@@ Current staff can complete the project with time reallocation or support of
contractors.
Stakeholders Fire Department, Public Works, Police Rangers, residents
Timeline Survey work can be completed within 60 days. With funding, message and
signs can be developed within 90 days, with installation to occur shortly
thereafter. With required funding, the project could be completed before peak
2019 fire season. If utilizing grant funding, the project would be completed
before May of 2020.
37. Effectively coordinate the removal of vegetative debris
Action City program. Work with Marin Sanitary to develop a plan to
support increased vegetative debris. Consider identifying a city
drop off site for removed hazardous fuels.
What this
means
Research and stakeholder input is needed to determine if a vegetation debris
removal site is necessary or beneficial to helping reduce hazardous fuels.
Additional discussions will help determine is a drop off site should be always
public, public on select days, or for city staff and contractors only. Other
considerations include increasing green waste bins, chipper days, or a
combination thereof.
Rationale Stronger vegetation regulations will result in an increased amount of woody
biomass and vegetative debris. Coordination will help determine the best way
to dispose of this debris. Goals will include reducing the costs associated with
City sponsored chipper days, diverting woody biomass from landfills to
biomass markets, supporting property owners fuel reduction efforts.
Concerns Cost. Security. Assuring appropriate use of space. Large piles of vegetative
debris could pose additional fire risk if not properly protected. Fuel reduction
in areas around drop-off sites would be required.
Costs $$$ Unless an existing, unused site is identified, costs for implementation and
maintenance would be extensive. Additional funding is also needed to support
increased green waste bins and/or community chipper days.
@@ Coordination can be accomplished with current staff reallocating time.
@@@ If a full-time drop-off site was established, additional staff may be
necessary.
Stakeholders Fire Department, Public Works, Sustainability Program, Residents, Marin
Sanitary.
Timeline Short and long-term recommendations will be drafted within 120 days. The
timeline will consider the vegetation removal requirement deadlines placed on
residents. Implementation will be impacted by funding.
Table 2. Objective Summary
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Objective Exists,
Plan
expands
$ $$ $$$ Additional
Staff
Needed
1. Eliminate highly flammable vegetation throughout San
Rafael
X X X
2. Apply vegetation management standards citywide X X
3. Adopt Public Resource Code 4290 and 4291 X X X
4. Reduce ember ignitions within immediate structure
ignition zone standards
X X
5. Apply fire mitigation codes 365 days a year X X
6. Eliminate fire hazard associated with shake and
wooden roofs
X
7. Increase funding and resources available for wildfire
mitigation
X X
8. Immediately seize ignition sources at encampments
and remove encampments as quickly as possible
X X
9. Provide for additional Vegetation Management staff X X
10. Increase Police Ranger staffing X X
11. Improve public education regarding fire-safe
landscaping and planning for a wildfire
X X X
12. Increase capability for early fire warnings and
detection
X X
13. Improve public emergency alerting capabilities and
policies
X X
14. Complete an analysis of fire roads and strategic fuel
breaks
X X
15. Expand goat grazing for vegetation maintenance X X
16. Assure that residents can evacuate through garage
doors if power is out
X
17. Improve development and implementation of
Vegetation Management Plans (VMPs)
X X
18. Assure that appropriate staff can send and receive
emergency alerts
X
19. Reduce fuels along roadways X X X
20. Reduce fuels around critical infrastructure X
21. Assure that City staff can communicate during an
emergency
X X
22. Establish more Firewise communities in San Rafael X X
23.Review and update WUI map X
24. Apply CA Fire Code 7A (fire resistant building material
requirements) to additional structures.
X X
25. Establish a residential hillside “parking box” program X X
26. Increase the number of completed Vegetation
Management Plans
X X
27. Incorporate VMPs into residential property sales or
transfers
X
Wildfire Prevention and Protection Action Plan January
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Objective Exists,
Plan
expands
$ $$ $$$ Additional
Staff
Needed
28. Prevent potential entrapments by requiring 2 gates in
any fence in designated areas.
X
29. Reduce fire risk and keep visitors using short-term
rentals safe
X
30. Review and expand evacuation plans X X
31. Develop comprehensive San Rafael hazardous
vegetation study and mitigation measures
X
32. Establish additional fuel interruption zones X X X
33. Engage CERT members in fire prevention X
34. Reduce hazardous fuels through an abatement
process on privately owned unimproved lots
X
35. Reengage volunteer “Broom Pull Days” X X
36. Improve the public’s fire risk awareness with sign
improvements and installation
X X
37. Effectively coordinate the removal of vegetative
debris
X X