City News

Newport Beach’s Bonita Canyon neighborhood has become the first in the city to earn a Firewise USA designation, reflecting a community-wide commitment to reducing wildfire risk.

The recognition, awarded by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), signifies that Bonita Canyon residents have taken concrete steps to reduce wildfire risks in their community. The program encourages neighbors to work together to protect their communities, strengthen emergency preparedness, and build long-term resilience.

Neighborhoods that earn the designation must demonstrate proactive reductions in wildfire risks through education, vegetation management, defensible space and home hardening.

Newport Beach City Councilmember Robyn Grant, a Bonita Canyon resident, helped organize the effort with the community’s homeowners association.

“Firewise is not just a designation, it is a commitment by neighbors to look out for each other,” Grant said. “This achievement is a major step toward building a more resilient Newport Beach.”

The Firewise USA program benefits neighborhoods by:

• Improving wildfire preparedness through regular education and training.
• Building collaboration between residents and the Newport Beach Fire Department.
• Providing national recognition for reducing wildfire risk.
• Enhancing safety and sustainability, potentially lowering insurance costs and improving recovery efforts after an emergency.

“The Newport Beach Fire Department commends Bonita Canyon residents for their leadership,” said Fire Chief Jeff Boyles. “We are ready to support other neighborhoods that would like to follow their example.”

With wildfires increasing across California, Firewise USA recognition is becoming more important for urban and suburban neighborhoods that border open space.

For information on wildfire preparedness, visit this resource page on the City of Newport Beach website.