Fire History
Mariposa County borders Yosemite National Park and encompasses significant fire-prone terrain in the Sierra Nevada foothills. The 2018 Ferguson Fire (96,901 acres) burned adjacent to Yosemite and threatened the communities of Midpines and Mariposa town. The 2019 Briceburg Fire and 2019 Oak Fire area fires added to cumulative impacts. The county's combination of steep Sierra foothills, dry chaparral, and proximity to national forest lands creates persistent extreme fire conditions.
Local Compliance Notes
CAL FIRE Madera-Mariposa-Merced Unit serves unincorporated SRA areas. The town of Mariposa and surrounding communities face significant Zone Zero obligations given their position within Very High FHSZ territory. El Portal, Midpines, Catheys Valley, and communities along Highway 140 and Highway 49 should prioritize early compliance assessment.
Neighborhoods in Zone Zero
High-FHSZ communities in Mariposa County include Mariposa, El Portal, Midpines, Catheys Valley, Coulterville, Bear Valley, Lake Don Pedro area, and communities along Highway 140 and Highway 49.
Local FAQs
Is the town of Mariposa subject to Zone Zero? Yes — Mariposa is surrounded by Very High FHSZ terrain. The Ferguson Fire demonstrated the speed at which fires can approach the town. Early Zone Zero compliance is strongly recommended. Contact CAL FIRE Madera-Mariposa-Merced Unit for Phase 2 timeline information.