Bill > SB514

This bill extends and enhances wildfire prevention efforts by making several key changes to California's public resources code. The bill indefinitely extends two existing programs: one that allows trained volunteers and qualified entities to conduct defensible space and home hardening assessments, and another that develops training for these assessments. More significantly, the bill requires the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection to create a new standardized accreditation framework for neighborhoods, fire safe councils, and local governments that implement wildfire prevention practices. This framework will include three tiers (bronze, silver, and gold) with points awarded based on specific mitigation practices like fuel breaks, vegetation management, reflective address signs, and recognition as a Firewise USA community. Entities can voluntarily participate in the program, and accreditation will depend on factors such as the number of properties that have received home hardening assessments and the implementation of fire safety standards. The department must publish a list of accredited entities on its website and periodically review the accreditation standards to ensure they reflect the most current fire science and technology. The overall goal is to encourage and recognize proactive wildfire prevention efforts at the community level.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB514