Local Hazard Mitigation Plan

Hazard mitigation is the process of identifying areas prone to natural or human-caused hazards and taking steps to prevent their recurrence or reduce their impact.

Examples of mitigation may include:

• Developing building codes to ensure buildings can withstand local hazards.
• Installing a retaining wall to prevent mud and debris flows during rain events.
• Removing dry brush and debris around structures in fire-prone areas.

While we may not be able to eliminate a hazard, taking steps to reduce its impact is critical to keeping our community safe.

The City of Moreno Valley maintains the General Plan and a Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP). The General Plan provides a blueprint for future development and resource management. The LHMP identifies known hazards and strategies to mitigate associated risk. While the LHMP is not legally required, having one makes the City eligible for pre- and post-disaster mitigation funding. The General Plan and LHMP work in tandem to identify general safety elements for the city, including mitigation measures and projects.

The County of Riverside coordinates an inclusive planning process known as the Multi-Jurisdictional LHMP (MJLHMP). This MJLHMP brings cities, tribes, special districts, and other stakeholder agencies together to share ideas, mitigation strategies, grant funding opportunities, and to support whole-community engagement efforts. The City of Moreno Valley is a proud partner in the MJLHMP process.

We want to hear from you! Community input is a key component of developing comprehensive mitigation plans.

Complete this brief community survey (opens in new tab) and let your voice be heard! If you need assistance completing the survey, contact the Moreno Valley Office of Emergency Management at 951-413-3800.

Another way to get involved is by attending a MJLHMP Steering Committee meeting. Find dates and register to attend (opens in new tab).

Yes, residents are an important part of the overall citywide mitigation effort. While the city focuses its mitigation efforts on infrastructure, roads, and related systems, it is important for community members to mitigate hazards around their homes and businesses. Together, we can be proactive in keeping our community safe.

Start by walking around the exterior of your apartment, home, or business. Identify potential hazards or threats and determine whether you can remove or reduce them.

Sample mitigation activities for individuals, families, and businesses:

• Trim trees and remove overhanging or dead branches
• Remove leaves and other debris from drains and rain gutters
• Inspect and repair broken roof tiles or shingles
• Secure patio furniture and/or outside toys to avoid blowing away in high winds
• Anchor heavy furniture and appliances to prevent tipping over in an earthquake
• Inspect and repair weather stripping on exterior doors to prevent water intrusion

Are you considering a mitigation or building project that will require moving large quantities of dirt or earth? The City of Moreno Valley Building & Safety Division offers free information for individuals. Learn more from Building & Safety.

To learn more about free sandbags, visit Fire Department Community Resources.

Mitigation is the first step to reducing or preventing the impacts of disasters. There are other steps residents and businesses should take to prepare themselves, their pets, and their families. To learn how to prepare for emergencies or disasters, visit Ready.gov (opens in new tab).