Fire Planning

The Northern Sphere Planning Area is supported by state-of-the-art fire protection measures and infrastructure, including fuel modification zones, modern building codes and planning, and infrastructure.

Fuel Modification Zones
A key component of fire safety is fuel modification zones.  These are wide swaths of land on the outside of a residential neighborhood that are cleared of brush, thinned and replanted with fire-retardant plant species to help stop a fire from advancing.  On the perimeter of some villages, including Orchard Hills and Portola Springs, fuel modification zones are typically 170 feet wide, which is more than half the length of a football field.  These zones are designed to standards set by the Orange County Fire Authority.

Building & Planning
Homes are planned with close consultation of fire experts with the OCFA.  Modern standards, including building materials, sprinkler systems and positioning, help protect homes from fire.

Fire Stations & Equipment
In 2008, the Orange County Fire Authority opened one of Irvine’s newest firehouses – Station No. 55. Irvine Company worked closely with the OCFA to provide a state-of-the-art facility strategically located on Portola Parkway to serve Northern Sphere residents and businesses.  Additionally, over the past 15 years, the Company has worked with the OCFA to construct five fully equipped fire stations throughout Irvine.

Irvine Company has provided the overall entitlement and design of the community, however has not provided the design, construction or sale of the homes. The design, construction and sale of homes is the sole responsibility of community builders. Effectiveness of Fuel Modifications Zones are dependent on routine landscape maintenance by homeowners association. Irvine Company makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy or completeness of such data and it should be independently verified by prospective buyers or lessees. This information should not be the only basis of decision to buy or lease property with Summit at Orchard Hills and respective buyers or lessees should conduct their own independent investigation prior to making a decision. Any reliance on this information is solely at your own risk.