Politics & GovernanceAI EnhancedSource: www.kabc.com

Effort to reinstate California wildfire prevention fee could cost rural homeowners up to $150 a year

An effort is underway to revive a wildfire‑prevention fee on homeowners in less populated areas—about a third of California—at up to $150 annually to fund Cal Fire. Critics warn of double payments, while lawmakers say reduced rates are on the table.

Tervion

April 29, 2026

United States of America

#California wildfires #state policy #rural homeowners #Cal Fire

Effort to reinstate California wildfire prevention fee could cost rural homeowners up to $150 a year

California is weighing a return to a wildfire‑prevention fee for rural homeowners, a move that could charge up to $150 a year in less populated areas overseen by the state—an expanse that covers roughly a third of the state. Revenue from the fee would support Cal Fire’s prevention work.

A similar charge was in place for about six years but ended in 2017 after complaints, according to lawmakers discussing the plan. Critics argue the fee would fall heavily on residents in rural communities, many of whom are on fixed incomes and already pay steep costs for insurance and wildfire safety measures.

There is also concern some homeowners could be paying multiple times for fire protection if they already fund local fire districts in addition to state taxes. Lawmakers say they would consider lower fees for some residents, as they did previously. The proposal remains under discussion.