The City is taking proactive steps to reduce encampment fires by spraying a citrus-based fire inhibitor to help protect homes and reduce fire hazards near some recently abated homeless encampments, but we need San Diego’s help. Despite our continued outreach and expanded shelter options, some choose to remain in illegal encampments—creating safety risks for themselves and our community. 

Recent fires in Los Angeles and here in San Diego—including the three that started in the city last week near encampments, two of those encampments located outside City jurisdiction on private property—serve as stark reminders that living outdoors is extremely unsafe for everyone. 

For years, I have been clear about the dangers of encampments. I worked hard to pass the Unsafe Camping Ordinance to ensure our public spaces remain safe while connecting people to shelter and services. This ordinance gives us another tool to get people off the streets and out of dangerous conditions. 

Since 2021, we have also more than doubled shelter options, and I continue to push for even more beds—but we need City Council and community support—not opposition—to keep expanding options. 

We also understand that people experiencing homelessness are trying to stay warm, but lighting fires in encampments creates extreme risks. That’s why we fund the Inclement Weather Shelter Program, which provides additional shelter capacity on cold and rainy nights. These beds are never full, and San Diegans fund this program to keep people warm and safe. 

 Private property owners must also do their part by clearing encampments on their property or working with our San Diego Police Department to help reduce fire risks. Property owners can request a Letter of Agency allow San Diego Police Department officers to more easily enforce trespassing on private property. The City cannot enter private property to remove waste or encampments. Code officers help by communicating with property owners to address concerns, and if needed, issue citations to ensure compliance. 

You can also help by reporting encampments when you see them: 

📍 Report encampments on City property (our intake staff will let you know if you try to report an encampment on property not within the jurisdiction of the city and offer guidance on where to submit the report instead): https://getitdone.sandiego.gov/TSWNewReport?type=Encampment 

📍 Report encampments on State highways, bridges, and underpasses (Caltrans): https://csr.dot.ca.gov/index.php/Msrsubmit 

Your reports help us take action. Let’s all work together to ensure everyone has a safer place to be.