LA HABRA HEIGHTS : Brush Fire Fears Spark Tough Smoking Rules

The city’s fire chief--citing a strong potential for brush fires--has banned smoking in many undeveloped areas and in parked vehicles.

Smoking is now forbidden on hillsides, vacant lots and land that does not have at least one inhabitable structure, said interim Fire Chief Robert C. Wilson. Violators face up to $1,000 in fines, six months in jail or both.

Smoking is still permitted in private residences and businesses, yards and moving vehicles. Other exceptions include parks, play fields and the city’s golf course, which are well irrigated and less likely to catch fire, Wilson said.

Smoking was banned in parked cars because occupants have been known to throw cigarettes from them when they’re done, Wilson said. State law already prohibits drivers from tossing lighted materials from moving vehicles, he said.

The potential for fire in La Habra Heights is not noticeably greater than in the recent years, but last year’s wildfires in Malibu prompted city and fire officials to adopt preventive measures, Wilson said. “We have become more aware of what a brush fire can do,” he said.

If the potential for fire greatly diminishes, the chief can rescind the ban, said Joe Perez, interim city manager.