Responding to an increased risk of wildfire, Austin became the first major city in Texas to adopt a code aimed at curbing wildfires.
The action came after an internal audit suggested the action could reduce the risk of wildfires, particularly in areas outside the urban core. The new ordinance is based on the International Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Code.
Austin’s Public Safety Commission had recommended tighter wildfire protection standards for structures built between the city’s wildlands and urban center, and endorsed the adoption of a WUI code. In April 2020, the city council unanimously adopted the code—an action that came after four years of study and planning.
The new WUI code requires that all new homes and businesses constructed near wildland areas be built with special ignition-resistant construction materials, and mandates the safe storage of combustible materials like liquefied petroleum gas. Properties that are particularly vulnerable could be required to better manage vegetation.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Feb 22, 2021
Preservation of Affordable Housing develops climate resilience strategy
Includes backup power for resident and staff “area of refuge”.
Codes and Standards | Feb 18, 2021
Construction industry moves toward comprehensive U.S. BIM standard
NIBS hosts roundtable to create coordinated program to advance collaboration.
Codes and Standards | Feb 17, 2021
Construction on international sports venues is ripe for corruption
Poor planning, complex contracting, a lack of accountability and high levels of collusion to blame.
Codes and Standards | Feb 16, 2021
Feds may fund removal of some urban highways
Senate bill proposes pilot program to reknit communities.
Codes and Standards | Feb 16, 2021
Bechtel joins international heat resilience organization
Experience designing resilience standards to aid effort to protect communities from extreme heat.
Codes and Standards | Feb 10, 2021
More than two-thirds of construction companies say COVID-19 has not impacted their ESOP
Half of survey respondents say 2020 project profitability decreased due to pandemic.
Codes and Standards | Feb 9, 2021
New Jersey approves new electric vehicle-ready home requirement
Homebuyers must be given option for charging station on new construction.
Codes and Standards | Feb 9, 2021
New California law removes barriers to residential development
Measure removes restrictions for ADUs in urban areas and master planned communities.
Codes and Standards | Feb 8, 2021
Alliance yields more accurate data for rating and certifying systems of construction materials
Crosswalk API offers trusted format to specify and procure healthier products.
Codes and Standards | Feb 4, 2021
2021 IBC requires automatic doors for entrances to public buildings
One door must be either a full power-operated door or a low-energy power-operated door.