San Diego, CA – On March 11, 2025, the San Diego County Board of Supervisors unanimously voted to advance updates to the county’s “Unsafe Camping Ordinance” in an effort to mitigate wildfire risks associated with homeless encampments in unincorporated areas.
The board’s decision initiates the process of revising the longstanding ordinance, originally established in 1968, to better address contemporary fire safety concerns. The proposed updates aim to enhance public safety by incorporating provisions related to fire risk mitigation, adding protections for open spaces and public works infrastructure, and establishing a 24-hour notification period for individuals experiencing homelessness who may be affected by enforcement actions.
Supervisor Joel Anderson, a leading advocate for the ordinance update, emphasized the critical need for such measures, citing that over 1,100 fires in the past year were linked to homeless encampments. He referenced the January 2025 Center Fire in Rancho Bernardo, which threatened thousands of homes and prompted evacuations, as a poignant example of the dangers posed by encampment-related fires.
“Passing an Unsafe Camping Ordinance in San Diego County’s unincorporated communities is a crucial step to protect all residents,” Anderson stated. He further noted that the goal is not to punish individuals but to prevent the creation of new homeless populations and to safeguard lives, underscoring that allowing people to remain in high-risk areas is a public safety issue.
The board’s action follows a previous discussion in late February, during which supervisors voted to advance a proposal to clear homeless encampments during red flag or high fire warnings. This proposal, authored by Supervisor Jim Desmond, directs county staff to prioritize relocating individuals from high fire-risk areas, explore housing options for those displaced, and collaborate with other jurisdictions on similar fire-prevention strategies.
The updated ordinance is expected to return to the board for further review and a final vote in approximately two months. If approved, it will require a second vote to become law under county policy.
During the public comment period, several individuals expressed support for updating the ordinance, emphasizing the necessity for public safety measures. Conversely, opponents urged supervisors not to criminalize homelessness.
The board’s initiative reflects a commitment to balancing the urgent need for wildfire prevention with the provision of services and support for the unhoused population, aiming to protect all residents of San Diego County.
