Trends in Community Fire Ordinances and Their Effects on Landscape Architecture Practice

Abstract

Since 2000, the United States has experienced record wildfire seasons causing significant property damage. In response, communities are increasingly adopting or strengthening wildland fire ordinances to minimize wildfire damage. This paper examines nationwide municipal and county wildland fire codes containing provisions for landscape features, and summarizes their requirements for new or existing development. The research revealed twelve ordinance provisions that fall into four categories that affect the scope of work for landscape architects: vegetative fuel clearance, building requirements, roadway and driveway standards, and planning and assessment. The majority of community wildland codes primarily address 1) vegetative fuel clearance around structures, 2) vegetative maintenance, and 3) vehicular access requirements. Discussion of the research findings focuses on the role of the landscape architecture profession in high fire risk areas and concludes that landscape architects are integral in protecting the safety of communities that develop in the wildland-urban interface.