Southern California faces a growing wildfire crisis, and we must take immediate action to protect our communities. In January alone, multiple fires—including the Friars Fire in Mission Valley, the Center Fire in Rancho Bernardo, and the Gilman Fire in La Jolla—originated in homeless encampments.
These fires have destroyed property, forced emergency evacuations, and put the lives of both first responders and residents in danger.
This is not just a local issue. In Los Angeles, 54% of all fires in 2023 were attributed to homeless encampments, and similar trends are emerging across California. With dry conditions, high winds, and dense vegetation, Southern California is constantly at risk of disaster.
While I believe there should be no encampments at any time—as they are dangerous for both the community and those on the streets—laws and enforcement approaches at various levels of government currently stop us from taking full action. That’s why I’m introducing an important policy that would require the clearing of homeless encampments during Red Flag Warning days, when fire danger is at its highest.
This proposal will:
✅ Identify and prioritize the removal of encampments in high-risk fire areas
✅ Strengthen coordination with neighboring jurisdictions for regional fire prevention
✅ Reduce the chances of devastating wildfires that threaten our homes and families
Homeless encampments, often located in canyons, riverbeds, and other fire-prone areas, create a dangerous fire hazard. Open flames used for cooking and warmth, combined with flammable debris and a lack of fire prevention measures, make these encampments a serious threat—not just to our communities but also to those living within them.
Wildfires don’t wait, and neither should we. This is a common-sense solution that prioritizes public safety while addressing the real fire risks posed by encampments. We must take action now before another devastating fire occurs.
I appreciate your support as we push for a safer region. Please feel free to share your thoughts with me—I’d love to hear from you.