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Weed Abatement Program: A Crucial Step Toward Fire Safety
The City of Laguna Niguel's annual Weed Abatement Program is a proactive initiative to reduce fire hazards during the summer season. This program, conducted in compliance with Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) standards and Laguna Niguel Municipal Code Sec. 11-14-11, aims to mitigate fire risks associated with dry vegetation.
In March, the Community Development Department mailed letters to property owners whose properties were identified as having weeds or other vegetation that could pose a fire hazard. These property owners have been notified that all hazardous vegetation must be removed, thinned, or cut back by June 1, 2025. Failure to comply may result in code compliance action by the City. Property owners are also reminded that slopes should not be left bare to prevent erosion and hillside instability.
Homeowners are encouraged to inspect their properties for weeds over six inches in height, as well as dead or dry vegetation such as branches, leaves, palm fronds, or shrubs, especially within 100 feet of any structure. Additionally, the OCFA offers helpful resources for residents, including the Ready, Set, Go Program and Vegetation Management Maintenance Guidelines.
Homeowners are also encouraged to schedule a FREE Wildfire Home Assessment with an OCFA representative. This assessment provides valuable tips on protecting homes from a wildfire, including an evaluation of the property's exterior and other risk factors. To schedule a FREE Wildfire Home Assessment, visit ocfa.org or call (714) 573-6774.
Exciting Sponsorship Opportunities for the Sea Country Festival
The City is excited to offer local business owners a valuable opportunity to gain significant exposure by sponsoring the annual Sea Country Festival, scheduled to take place August 22nd to August 24th! This highly anticipated community event provides a unique chance to connect directly with thousands of Laguna Niguel residents and neighboring community members.
The Sea Country Festival is a three-day, end-of-summer annual celebration featuring live music, carnival rides, games, food, vendors, and much more! With over 20,000 attendees each year, the event is free to the public and promises significant visibility and engagement for businesses. Sponsors will be prominently featured across various marketing platforms, including printed publications, social media, newsletters, event banners, and advertisements leading up to and throughout the festival. This exposure ensures maximum visibility during one of the most anticipated events of the year.
Local business owners are encouraged to review the event Sponsorship Packet available at www.cityoflagunaniguel.org/festival, for more details on available sponsorship opportunities and to determine the preferred level of involvement. For questions or further assistance, please contact the Parks and Recreation Department at (949) 425-5100 or email SeaCountryFestival@CityofLagunaNiguel.org. This is a prime opportunity to be a part of Laguna Niguel’s most beloved event while gaining substantial exposure for any business.
The Laguna Niguel Summer Trolley: Your Gateway to Sea Country
The Laguna Niguel Summer Trolley is back for the 2025 season and is better than ever with expanded service! For the first time, the trolley will now take riders to and from the Metrolink Station via a new North Line, making it even easier to connect to public transportation. This FREE service will run from Thursday, May 22, 2025, through Monday, September 1, 2025, offering all-day access to beaches, shops, restaurants, and special events like the City’s Summer Concert Series. For more details, visit LNTrolley.com.
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Updated Fire Hazard Severity Zone Maps Released by CAL FIRE
CAL FIRE, the state agency responsible for fire protection and emergency services across California, recently released updated Local Responsibility Area (LRA) Fire Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ) maps for the entire state, including Laguna Niguel. Developed under the direction of the Office of the State Fire Marshal, these updated maps assess wildfire risks across California, and areas may be designated one of three categories: moderate, high, or very high, depending on the level of fire hazard.
While the City of Laguna Niguel does not determine the contents of these maps, it is required by state law to make the draft version available for public review and comment. The City must adopt a finalized version of the map and accompanying ordinance within 120 days of the draft’s release. Although the City cannot reduce a fire hazard severity designation, it has the discretion to increase a designation when needed to enhance local wildfire protection efforts. To view the draft FHSZ map for Laguna Niguel, visit bit.ly/ln-fhszmaps.
A Change in the Sky this Fourth of July
This year, the City of Laguna Niguel will celebrate Independence Day in an exciting new way with a spectacular drone light show experience featuring over 400 synchronized drones, choreographed to live patriotic music. The drone show will serve as a safer alternative to the annual fireworks display, promising a dazzling and innovative celebration for residents.
Transitioning to a patriotic drone show comes in response to the State of California’s updated Local Responsibility Area (LRA) Fire Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ) map, which now classifies the fireworks launch site near Crown Valley Park as a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. Given this new heightened classification, the City is responding responsibly to ensure the safety of its residents, their property, and surrounding open spaces.
While fireworks have long been a cherished tradition, the heightened fire risk and updated safety guidance made this format change necessary. The new drone show experience will be the grand finale to a full day of free patriotic festivities, including live performances by two bands, family-friendly fun, and more at Crown Valley Park.
The drone show experience will feature vibrant sky animations, patriotic visuals, and live music, while continuing the annual tradition of creating an unforgettable experience for all ages. This exciting event ensures the community can still come together in the spirit of patriotism while also maintaining the highest safety standards.