The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors adopted a new Safety Element Update to the county’s general plan on April 5, which will limit new development in wildfire hazard zones, reducing regional risk as California braces for what could be another intense fire season.

According to the California Planning & Development Report, a newsletter that keeps tabs on on planning and development issues in California, the update restricts new subdivisions in very high fire hazard severity zones and prohibits amendments that would increase residential density in fire- and flood-prone areas to reduce risks to people, property and wildlife

County officials said the move will reduce sprawl and minimize construction of new power lines and electrical equipment that are frequently responsible for wildfires. The update will complement the Housing Element to provide safe, affordable housing while protecting natural habitats.

“Los Angeles County leaders made sensible policy changes that recognize the seriousness of a prolonged wildfire season,” said Elizabeth Reid-Wainscoat, a campaigner at the Center for Biological Diversity. “By putting commonsense limits on building in the most dangerous and fire-prone areas of the county, we’re planning for a safer, more sustainable future.”

Development restrictions in fire-prone wildlands also keep certain wildlife habitats intact and protect the region’s biodiversity.

“Southern California is starting to shed its sprawl reputation and embrace smarter land-use decisions,” said Reid-Wainscoat. “I hope other decision makers will follow suit and pass similar measures to keep their communities safe.”