Fire · Glossary
Fire Hazard Severity Zone
Updated 2026-07-18
Fire Hazard Severity Zone is a California classification of wildfire hazard based on factors such as fuels, terrain, weather, and ember exposure. CAL FIRE maps Moderate, High, and Very High zones, and the designation is hazard—not a prediction of structure loss.
At a glance
| Level | Relative modeled hazard | Screening implication |
|---|---|---|
| Moderate | Lowest mapped FHSZ class | Wildfire standards may still apply |
| High | Elevated modeled hazard | Review access, water, construction, and vegetation |
| Very High | Highest mapped FHSZ class | Additional state and local requirements may apply |
What it means
FHSZ maps cover State Responsibility Areas and designated Local Responsibility Areas under California law. Hazard differs from risk because it does not fully account for a specific building's mitigation.
Why it matters for land decisions
The zone can affect construction standards, defensible space, disclosure, insurance review, and development conditions.
- Use the current adopted map.
- Confirm jurisdiction and parcel boundary.
People also ask
Is FHSZ the same as wildfire risk?
No. FHSZ characterizes physical hazard; risk also considers structures, occupants, mitigation, and potential loss.
Where should a California parcel's zone be verified?
Use CAL FIRE's official maps and confirm adopted Local Responsibility Area mapping with the city or county.
Official sources
Related terms
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