Fire History
Plumas County's Sierra Nevada terrain has been repeatedly burned by large lightning-ignited complex fires. The 2021 Dixie Fire (963,309 acres) was the largest single fire in California history, burning extensively through Plumas County and destroying the towns of Greenville and Canyon Dam. The 2021 Beckwourth Complex and Antelope Fire also burned in the county. Plumas County's communities have experienced some of the most severe cumulative fire impacts in the state.
Local Compliance Notes
CAL FIRE Plumas Unit serves unincorporated SRA areas. Greenville and Canyon Dam are rebuilding from the 2021 Dixie Fire under mandatory Zone Zero construction standards. Surviving communities including Quincy, Chester, Portola, and Graeagle face significant Zone Zero compliance obligations. The county's remoteness and limited contractor availability make early planning essential.
Neighborhoods in Zone Zero
High-FHSZ communities in Plumas County include Quincy, Chester, Portola, Graeagle, Blairsden, Greenville (rebuilding), Canyon Dam (rebuilding), Taylorsville, Indian Falls, and communities along the Feather River canyon and Highway 70 corridor.
Local FAQs
Are Greenville and Canyon Dam residents rebuilding under Zone Zero standards? Yes — new construction in these communities must comply with Zone Zero requirements immediately. If you are rebuilding after the Dixie Fire, your building permits should incorporate Zone Zero compliance. Contact CAL FIRE Plumas Unit or your building department for specifics.