Whittier City Council Approves New Fire Hazard Map Amid Rising Insurance Concerns

At the July 8, 2025 meeting of the Whittier City Council, the updated Fire Hazard Severity Zone Map was officially approved on first reading, but not without robust discussion and a new commitment to public transparency. Although initially included in the consent calendar, Councilmember Cathy Warner pulled the item from automatic approval to raise concerns that the general public is not fully aware of the consequences of the new map.

Workshop and Council Concerns

City staff began by recapping a recent public workshop that explained the fire zone designations and how the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) required the City of Whittier to adopt the updated map by July 22, 2025. The revised map includes expanded fire hazard zones across parts of Whittier, especially in areas such as the hills near Rideout and Turnbull Canyon.

Cathy Warner emphasized that while the city has little power to alter the state-mandated map, residents deserve more opportunities to weigh in. "I'm really concerned, colleagues, that the public is not aware of this item," Warner said, asking that the city hold a public hearing prior to final adoption.

Public Hearing Planned Before Second Reading

After deliberation, Mayor Joe Vinatieri, Councilmember Mary Ann Pacheco, and others agreed with Warner’s recommendation. City staff confirmed that the council could both approve the first reading of the ordinance and commit to a formal public hearing before the second reading, ensuring compliance with the state’s timeline while opening space for community feedback.

Pacheco also asked staff to clarify whether the city has any flexibility to alter the fire zone designations. Staff replied that the city cannot shrink the designated hazard areas but can expand them upon request by residents—though that would require a complex approval process.

Impact on Whittier Residents: Insurance Rates Could Soar

One of the most immediate effects of the new map is its potential to increase homeowners and renters insurance premiums. According to data from industry analysts, homes located in high fire hazard zones can see insurance rate hikes of 30% to 50% or more. Councilmember Warner said this was her main concern and one of the primary reasons she asked for more public input.

Mayor Vinatieri directed staff to prepare an accessible summary of how the fire map will affect residents, with an emphasis on insurance consequences.

Short Term Rentals Tied to Fire Risk

The timing of this fire map is significant as the council is also considering an ordinance to regulate Short Term Rentals (STRs). Many residents who spoke during public comment expressed concern that STR guests—often unfamiliar with the terrain or fire risks—may behave irresponsibly, increasing the danger of accidental fires. The new map reinforces calls to limit or ban STRs in high-risk areas like the Whittier Hills.

Federal Funding at Risk for Sanctuary Cities

While some speakers during public comment demanded that Whittier declare itself a sanctuary city, it's important to note that such a designation would put at risk millions of dollars in federal grants, including those designated for emergency response, disaster preparedness, and wildfire mitigation. The city currently receives approximately $22 million per year in federal funding, at least $11 million of which supports the Whittier Police Department and related public safety services, including fire protection coordination.

Next Steps

The updated fire map has passed on first reading. A public hearing will be scheduled before the second reading, giving Whittier residents an opportunity to learn more, ask questions, and request additional protections or expansions.

Residents concerned about their inclusion in the new fire zones are encouraged to attend the upcoming public hearing and may request expansion of the hazard areas through the city’s formal application process.