Wildland-Urban Interface Code

The Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) Code helps ensure businesses and residences in and around wildland areas mitigate wildfire risk because it’s not a matter of “if” that happens, but “when”.

Building and structures located within designated WUI areas are subject to requirements for site, infrastructure and structure hardening. 

What you will find on this page:  

Wildland-Urban Interface Code Area Map

2024 Wildland-Urban Interface Code

Plan Review Resources

Inspection Resources

Approved Materials 

Training Presentation

Austin's WUI Code History

FAQs

For information about wildfire preparedness, safety and mitigation efforts in Austin and Travis County, visit AFD's Wildfire Hub.

Wildland-Urban Interface Code Area Map

This WUI Code Training Video Presentation includes step-by-step directions about using the interactive map, which allows users to search for requirements for a specific property or structure.

• 2024 WUI Code Interactive Map 

Using the requirements reflected in the map, plan your project utilizing the 2024 Wildland-Urban Interface Code and Plan Review Resources.

2024 Wildland-Urban Interface Code

The 2024 International Wildland-Urban Interface Code (IWUIC) and the City of Austin's local amendments to it guide every building project. 

• 2024 International WIldland-Urban Interface Code (IWUIC)
• Local Amendments (Coming Soon)
• Fire Protection Criteria Manual, Section 4.10

Plan Review Resources

The following documents provide guidance on the design process and on submission of development applications.

• WUI Code Plan Review Submittal Checklist
• How to Demonstrate Compliance on Drawings
• WUI Proximity Zones - Guide to Construction
• Fire Hazard Severity Form & Guide

Inspection Resources

All classes of ignition-resistant construction require two WUI inspections. All approved materials shown on the plans must be verifiable by the inspector for on-site confirmation.

Inspection 1: The first inspection must be coordinated at or just before scheduling the building frame inspection. The frame cannot be covered until the fire inspection has been satisfactorily completed. 

Inspection 2: The second inspection must be scheduled after the structure is complete and ready for a building final. The WUI final must be completed prior to the building final. 

Click on the following links for more information:

• New Construction, Remodel, and/or Building Permit Inspections
• How Do I Schedule an Inspection?

Approved Materials

The WUI Approved Materials List (AML) reflects materials that have been pre-approved for use in meeting WUI Code requirements. Please note the following disclaimers:

• Inclusion on this list does not imply endorsement by the Austin Fire Department.
• While each material has been reviewed for compliance with the WUI Code, it does not guarantee suitability for individual projects.
• The AML is not exhaustive. Other materials may be used to meet code requirements, even if not listed. Use the AML Request Form (coming soon) to ask for a product to be added to the AML or to have it reviewed for compliance with WUI Code requirements.

Training Presentation

This 2024 Wildland-Urban Interface Code Video Presentation summarizes the code adopted by the City of Austin. Watch the presentation in its entirety or use the bookmarks to jump to specific topics.

Austin's WUI Code History

Austin was the first major city in Texas to adopt the International Wildland-Urban Interface Code.  Use the table below to determine which version of the WUIC applies to your development application.

Application Submission Date	Applicable Code	Details
January 1, 2021 – July 9, 2025	Amended 2015 International Wildland-Urban Interface Code	Adopted April 9, 2020 with implementation on January 1, 2021. Ordinance 20200409-040
On or after July 10, 2025	Amended 2024  International Wildland-Urban Interface Code	Adopted April 10, 2025 with implementation on July 10, 2025. Ordinance 20250410-041

Austin WUI Code Archive

2015 WUI Code Resources, effective July 1, 2021 - July 9, 2025:

• 2015 Wildland-Urban Interface Code Ordinance (local amendments)
• 2015 International Wildland-Urban Interface Base Code
• ARCHIVE - 2015 WUIC Interactive Map
• ARCHIVE - 2015 WUI Proximity Zones - Guide to Construction
• ARCHIVE - 2015 Wildland-Urban Interface Approved Materials List
• Fire Protection Criteria Manual, Sections 3.2.12 and 4.10

FAQs

Retroactivity

Do structures located within the Wildand-Urban Interface (WUI) need to be modified to meet the current Wildland-Urban Interface Code (WUIC)?

No, under WUIC 101.4 Retroactivity, the code applies only to new development and construction that begins on or after July 10, 2025, including projects where a permit application is submitted on or after that date. Existing buildings or conditions are not required to comply unless a code official determines they pose a serious danger or extreme hazard to life or property, in which case compliance may be required.

WUI Map

The Property Profile Map currently only shows red and orange for WUI areas. Will there be three colors for zones A, B and C?

No, Proximity Zone A and Proximity Zone B are shown combined on both the 2024 WUI Code Interactive Map and on the Property Profile map. For an accurate determination of Proximity Zone, measure the distance between the structure and the wildland utilizing the map tools. Confirm by checking actual conditions on site.

Changes to Approved Site Plans

Do approved site plans need to be modified to meet the requirements of the 2024 WUIC?

Site Plan application (does not apply to Subdivision applications or non-Site Plan related Residential building permit applications) approved under the 2015 WUIC or earlier are not required to be updated to meet the requirements of the 2024 WUIC for site-related requirements including:

• 106.7 Vicinity Plan
• 402.2 Access and Water Supply for Individual Structures
• 403 Access
• 603 Defensible Space
• 603.2.1 Ember Ignition Zone (EIZ)

Modifications to an approved Site Plan (e.g. Exemption, Correction, Revision) that add a new structure, add a new dwelling unit, or increase the fire area of a building shall comply for the revised portion. An alternative to providing an additional access point includes completing the Fire Hazard Severity Form and providing mitigation as needed per WUIC 101.5.

Associated Building Permit Applications submitted on or after July 10, 2025, shall meet the 2024 WUIC, but site elements listed above can remain under the 2015 WUIC if the Site Plan was previously approved.

Volume Builder Program Participants

Do Volume Builder Program participants need to update the approved Volume Builder Master Plan sets to meet the 2024 WUIC?

Volume Builder Master Plans submitted before July 10, 2025, may continue following the 2021 Residential Code (IRC), other adopted 2021 technical codes, and the 2015 Wildland-Urban Interface Code (WUIC) for individual building permit applications in that subdivision or site plan 2024 WUIC - Frequently Asked Questions – Updated: June 24, 2025 Page 3 of 8 section/phase. However, any new sections or phases that require a new Master Plan Application must follow the technical codes in effect at the time of application.

Master Plan Applications submitted on or after July 10, 2025, must follow the 2024 technical codes. This also applies to all individual building permit applications linked to those Master Plans. Prototype plans from subdivisions previously approved under the 2021 Residential Code cannot be reused (i.e. rolled over) unless they are updated to meet the 2024 technical codes.

Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Vicinity Plans approved under the 2015 WUIC with a Volume Builder Master Plan or Site Plan may be used for Volume Builder Master Plan applications submitted on or after July 10, 2025 for new phases within the same subdivision or site plan. However, the WUI Vicinity Plan must be updated if any changes are made to the subdivision or site plan that affect the proximity of structures to wildland areas.

If a WUI Vicinity Plan was only approved for a specific section of a larger area such as a Planned Unit Development (PUD), it will remain valid for that section. For any other sections of the PUD, new WUI Vicinity Plans based on the 2024 WUI Map and methodology must be submitted with Volume Building Master Plans on or after July 10, 2025, unless the plan is part of the approved PUD agreement.

Ember Ignition Zone (EIZ)

How far away does a new tree need to be planted from the EIZ?

All portions of a newly planted tree should be located outside of the EIZ, taking into account the estimated canopy of the tree species when mature to avoid unnecessary over-pruning of the tree in the future.

Within an existing building or structure’s EIZ, existing heritage and protected trees may remain and should be maintained per the Land Development Code (LDC) and Environmental Criteria Manual (ECM).

Why aren't vegetative roofs allowed in the WUI?

Vegetative roofs, or green roofs, are not allowed in the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) due to their potential to increase wildfire risk and complicate fire mitigation efforts. The primary concern is that buildings in the WUI are a fuel source during a wildfire event. The overarching goal is to reduce wildfire fuels and create noncombustible space around structures to protect occupants, property, first responders and to limit the propagation of wildfire.

Current best practices focus on structure hardening and maintaining minimal, well-managed defensible space, with particular attention to a noncombustible zone surrounding structures, adopted with the 2024 Wildland-Urban Interface Code under section 603.2.1 Ember Ignition Zone (EIZ). Green roofs are inconsistent with these principles, as they can harbor embers and ignite more readily than non-vegetative surfaces.

Is there a definition for a vegetative roof?

Per the 2024 International Building Code (IBC) and International Fire Code (IFC) Section 202, a vegetative roof is defined as a roof assembly of interacting components designed to waterproof a building’s top surface that includes, by design, a vegetative surface.

How are EIZ and impervious cover requirements balanced?

Both permeable and impermeable surfaces are allowed within the EIZ. Gravel is an option that may be used to achieve a permeable surface. Within Proximity Zone C, section 603.2.1 exception 5 also allows perennial green, moist, and closely mowed lawn grass.

Can a weed barrier be added below gravel in the EIZ?

Yes, as long as it is fully covered by gravel or other noncombustible material.

Is there a limitation on what type of gravel may be provided?

No, although gravel size may need to comply with other code requirements not specified by the WUIC.

Does the EIZ have to extend five feet even if that goes into an adjoining property?

No, the EIZ may stop at the property line.

Proximity Zone C EIZ with dormant grass is required to be seeded with perennial Rye. Can another perennial species of grass be used besides Rye?

Alternative perennial grass species may be submitted for consideration with applications for development permits as an Alternative Method of Compliance under 2024 IFC 104.2.3 Alternative materials, design and methods of construction and equipment.

Would you allow green grass in Zone B EIZ as well?

No, green grass is only an exception for Zone C where structures are at least 150 feet away from wildland.

Can you provide examples of landscaping items that are allowed in the EIZ?

Examples of what be placed in the EIZ include noncombustible gravel, pavers, concrete sidewalks, concrete or metal furniture without cushions, concrete bird baths and fountains, and other noncombustible décor such as items made with metal, stone, masonry, concrete, or other cementitious materials.

Exterior Walls

Is a 1-hour fire rated exterior wall required for Zone A and Zone B?

One of the five options available for exterior walls in Zone A (504.5) and Zone B (505.5) is to use materials that have not less than a 1-hour fire-resistance-rating on the exterior side. More commonly used is either a non-combustible (Option 2) or ignition-resistant (Option 5) material.

The requirements for Zone A did not change since the 2015 Wildland-Urban Interface Code and are now extended to Zone B in alignment with the model code.

Decks & Appendages

Since ground contact fire-retardant-treated wood (FRTW) does not exist, what are the options for deck structural systems in the WUI?

Heavy timber, metal, masonry, or cementitious may be used for deck framing. Standard exterior grade wood allowed by the Building Code or Residential Code, as applicable, may be used if fully encased (i.e. wrapped) in a compliant material as well.

Several options are permitted for deck structural systems in the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) beyond FRTW:

• Heavy timber construction that meets minimum size requirements (such as posts at least 8x8 nominal, beams at least 6x10 nominal).
• Noncombustible materials, including metal, masonry, cementitious products, or steel framing.
• Standard exterior-grade wood, as allowed by the Building Code or Residential Code, as applicable, may be used if it is fully encased or wrapped in a compliant, ignition-resistant material.
• For deck walking surfaces or skirting located within close proximity to the ground, options include noncombustible materials or ignition-resistant products that meet code requirements.
• Always consult the currently adopted WUI code and AFD WUI approved materials list for the most current, specific requirements and pre-approved products. Additional materials may be used if they meet the requirements outlined in the code.

Can a 6x6 wood post or column be used for patio cover roofs?

No, an unprotected 6x6 wood post does not meet the requirements for unenclosed appendages and structures (WUIC 504.7, 505.7, or 506.6). To meet the requirements for:

• Heavy Timber, a solid wood post shall meet the minimum size per 2024 IBC 2304.11 including at least 6x8 nominal to support a roof or 8x8 nominal to support a floor
• Fire-retardant-treated wood (FRTW), a solid 6x6 wood post shall comply with Section 2303.2 of the Building Code and be approved for exterior use
• Ignition-resistant building materials, the wood shall be FRTW or the post may be wrapped with an ignition-resistant material that complies with section 503.2

Fences

Where is the distance between a fence and building measured?

The distance is measured from the face of the exterior wall finish to the nearest face of the fence. For unenclosed appendages (e.g. deck, balcony, carport, pergola, patio cover, awning, canopy, etc.) shall be measured from the face of the appendage to the nearest face of the fence.

What happens if a new building is placed within 10 feet (or 5 feet for IRC buildings in Zone C) of an existing non-complying fence? Can the building still have an eave that encroaches the required distance to the fence?

If a new building is placed within 10 feet (or five feet for IRC buildings in Zone C) of an existing non-complying fence, the fence should be brought into compliance with WUIC requirements. If that’s not possible, one of the two following options may be pursued: 

•  The wall of the new building within 10 feet (or 5 feet for IRC buildings in Zone C) of the fence must be 1-hour fire-resistant rated construction with an ignition-resistant exterior finish. Any eave that encroaches into this area must also be 1-hour protected, non-vented, and have an ignition-resistant exterior finish.
• Alternatively, the exterior finish material of both the wall and the eave may be non-combustible, meaning no combustible materials are allowed, even if they are ignition-resistant.

Windows & Doors

Do windows and doors have to comply with all of the requirements in the list under WUIC 504.8 Exterior glazing and WUIC 504.9 Exterior doors, respectively?

No, glazing and doors are only required to be one of the options listed unless specific requirements are necessary for additional structure hardening as part of a hazard mitigation package.

Do window and door frames need to meet a specific requirement?

Window and door frames may be any material approved for use in the Building Code or Residential Code, as applicable. Only the glazing and doors have to comply with WUIC 504.8 and 504.9, respectively.

Skylight frame material shall be noncombustible per WUIC 504.2.2.2, 505.2.2.2, and 506.2.2.2.

Inspections

How do we schedule an inspection?

To schedule an inspection, call 512-974-0153, option 3 or make a request online using this form.

Additional inspection details are available online here.

How long does it take to schedule an inspection?

Inspection scheduling times vary based on demand and staff availability. Inspections must be scheduled at least 48 hours in advance, but we recommend planning at least one week ahead, especially during busy periods.