What Are Evacuation Zones?

San Luis Obispo County public safety agencies have worked together to divide the county into pre-established evacuation zones. These evacuation zones will assist first responders in more quickly determining evacuation areas during an emergency. These new zones will also allow the public to easily identify if they are in an area under an Evacuation Warning or Evacuation Order. These zones are intended for emergencies that require large-scale evacuations.

Evacuation Zones vs. Protective Action Zones

These new evacuation zones are different than the Protective Action Zones (PAZ) established for emergencies at the Diablo Canyon Power Plant.  The 12 Protective Action Zones are much larger in size and are specifically designed for an emergency at Diablo Canyon when evacuation or shelter in place may be directed. The PAZs are still in place and would be used during a nuclear power plant emergency.  These new evacuation zones would be used during other emergencies

Know Your Evacuation Zones

Click here to find your zone.

To save time during an emergency, it is important for residents to know your evacuation zone in advance. Enter your address into the map tool below. The tool will tell you your zone name. It is important to write down the zone name and post it in a location easily accessible in an emergency.

Each zone has a description of the zone with the name, borders, current status, and additional information.  Additional information may also be provided. 

If an Evacuation Order or Warning is ordered, emergency officials will utilize alert and notification methods such as Wireless Emergency Alerts and Reverse 911 to notify residents which zones are affected. Knowing your evacuation zone will allow you to respond more quickly. 

How to Find Your Zone

1. Click here to find your zone. Use the search bar on the upper left hand side to type in your address. Click enter, or select the appropriate address from the drop-down list that will appear.
2. Your results will show your Protective Action Zone (PAZ) if you live in the Emergency Planning Zone for Diablo Canyon Power Plant (this will be a PAZ 1 - 12 number).
3. Your results will also show your Evacuation Zone for non-Diablo Canyon emergencies (wildfires, etc.)
4. The  map will also show you a visual of your zone for reference.  To zoom in, use the +/- sign on the top right.
5. Other questions? See the Frequently Asked Questions by clicking here.