Local Order Allows Action Within One Day in High-Fire Zones
Malibu officials have declared a local emergency as wildfire risk intensifies across the Santa Monica Mountains, citing dangerously low vegetation moisture levels and an increased threat of fast-moving fires.
The City Council voted unanimously on September 29 to enact the emergency declaration after live fuel moisture readings fell below 65 percent, the threshold Malibu uses to trigger heightened wildfire response measures. A live fuel moisture level of 60 percent is classified as “critical,” when dry brush is most likely to ignite and spread fire rapidly.
City officials said the declaration is a public safety tool that allows Malibu to act more quickly in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, particularly by reducing the timeline for clearing encampments from multiple weeks to one day. Cooking flames and warming fires are among the leading ignition sources in encampments, and the city reports responding to more than 30 encampment-related fires since 2021.
The declaration shortens the amount of time from 48 hours to one day and the city has directed LASD deputies to remove people in encampments and arrest them if they refuse to leave, according to KTLA 5 News.
Even as the city accelerates removals in fire-sensitive areas, outreach remains part of the protocol. Malibu’s Homeless Outreach Team, operated by The People Concern, works alongside the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s HOST unit to connect unhoused residents with services, interim placements and relocation assistance before enforcement occurs.
“As we continue to recover from the most devastating fire in our City’s history, declaring a local emergency is an important and proactive step to reduce wildfire risk and protect lives, homes, and our community,” said Malibu Mayor Marianne Riggins. “We are stepping up enforcement if there is illegal activity, especially fires, but we lead with compassion. Our first priority is always getting people housed and connected to the resources they need.”
