A Santa Ynez Valley community is taking wildfire prevention into its own hands after insurance premiums skyrocketed from thousands to tens of thousands of dollars annually following the Lake Fire in 2024.

Ryan Smith, a founding member of the Santa Ynez Wildland Association, says insurance rates have spiked dramatically since 2024, with many neighbors losing fire insurance altogether. The community has seen premiums jump up to $50,000 annually.

"It becomes a point where it's no longer feasible for them to have fire insurance," Smith said.

The Firewise-certified community formed the Santa Ynez Wildland Association with plans to build a rural fire station and resource center. The group emphasizes that their efforts will complement, not replace, existing emergency services.

"Santa Barbara

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