LAGUNA BEACH, CA – The Rancho Fire, which ignited at approximately 2:06 p.m. on July 7 in the hillside area of Laguna Beach, has been mapped at 4.6 acres and is at 100% containment. All roads have been reopened.

The City's HeloPod—designed for quick water refills by firefighting helicopters—were actively utilized, playing a key role in the aerial response. The effectiveness of the City's fuel modification zones (FMZ) was also evident, with vegetation clearing along the ridgeline helping to slow the fire's progression. Notably, the FMZ closest to the fire was recently approved and installed.

The City is grateful for the swift mutual aid response from partner agencies including:

· Orange County Fire Authority
· Newport Beach Fire Department
· CAL FIRE
· Huntington Beach Fire Department
· Anaheim Fire & Rescue
· LA County Fire Department
· Orange City Fire Department
· OC Parks
· Irvine Police Department
· Orange County Sheriff’s Department
· Laguna Beach County Water District
· CERT (Community Emergency Response Team)

 “Thanks to swift action, seamless coordination, and the City’s continued investment in wildfire preparedness, we were able to contain this fire quickly and limit its impact,” said Fire Chief Niko King. “This Rancho Fire is an example of how regional collaboration works in practice—from aerial support and ground crews to communications and logistics. The strong relationships we’ve built with our partner agencies are critical to our ability to respond rapidly and effectively when emergencies arise.”

For more information on the cause of the fire, please read the Police Department’s press release on the City’s website at www.lagunabeachcity.net.

Residents are reminded to stay informed by signing up for Nixle alerts by texting 92651 to 888-777, visiting the City’s website at www.lagunabeachcity.net, and registering for AlertOC at https://member.everbridge.net/453003085613900/login.