CWUIC · California Wildland-Urban Interface Code

What CWUIC fuel‑break and greenbelt requirements reference Title 14 CCR §1276.03?

If your project meets CWUIC triggers (for example, creating three or more new parcels), the local jurisdiction can require fuel breaks that must be placed in strategic locations (roads, defensible space, ridgelines/greenbelts), finished before construction starts, built with ecologically appropriate methods, and secured with long‑term maintenance obligations (see § 609.2.3–609.2.6, which implement Title 14 CCR §1276.03).

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2–4 sentences

The local jurisdiction decides when and where fuel breaks are required for new development when specific application triggers occur; those fuel‑break rules in the CWUIC reference Title 14 CCR §1276.03. The controlling CWUIC subsections that implement and explain that Title 14 provision are § 609.2.3, § 609.2.4, § 609.2.5, and § 609.2.6. Together they require: location choices that reduce radiant/convective heat and ember exposure, completion of fuel breaks prior to construction, use of ecologically appropriate treatment methods, and long‑term maintenance mechanisms that run with the land.

The single most important rule: fuel breaks required by the local jurisdiction must be located, constructed and maintained to reduce damaging radiant/convective heat and ember exposure — and they must be completed before any permitted construction begins. § 609.2.1; § 609.2.4.

Requirements in detail

Which CWUIC sections reference Title 14 CCR §1276.03

The CWUIC identifies the fuel‑break requirement and delegation to the local jurisdiction in § 609.2 (see the triggering criteria) and implements the Title 14 §1276.03 rules through its subsections § 609.2.1 through § 609.2.7. The specific Location / Timing / Construction / Maintenance rules are spelled out in § 609.2.3, § 609.2.4, § 609.2.5, and § 609.2.6 (which explicitly track Title 14 §1276.03(d)–(h)).

Decision‑relevant dimensions (at‑a‑glance)

Decision dimension	Key value / threshold	Code Reference
When a fuel break may be required (application triggers)	Approval of three or more new parcels; or a change of zoning that increases intensity/density; or a change of use increasing intensity/density	§ 609.2 (references Title 14 §1276.03(a))
Where fuel breaks may be located	Directly adjacent to defensible space, adjacent to roads, adjacent to hazardous land uses, or along ridgelines/greenbelts (strategic locations to reduce radiant/convective heat and ember impacts)	§ 609.2.3 (T14 §1276.03(d))
Timing (when must be in place)	Completed prior to the commencement of any permitted construction	§ 609.2.4 (T14 §1276.03(e))
How fuel breaks are constructed	Use the most ecologically and site‑appropriate treatment: e.g., prescribed burning, manual, mechanical, prescribed herbivory, targeted herbicide	§ 609.2.5 (T14 §1276.03(f))
Long‑term maintenance requirement	Jurisdictions must establish maintenance mechanisms binding on the property (e.g., recorded agreements, fees, HOA assessments) to ensure objectives persist	§ 609.2.6 (T14 §1276.03(g),(h))
When open space/parks function as fuel breaks	Any greenbelt, greenway, park or open space intended to serve as a fuel break must conform with Title 14 §1276.03	§ 609.2.7 (T14 §1276.04 referencing §1276.03)

Location details (what § 609.2.3 allows)

Adjacent to defensible space: specifically calls out adjacency to defensible space (Title 14 §1299.02) to reduce radiant/convective heat and embers. § 609.2.3(1).
Adjacent to roads: to manage heat/ember impacts, improve evacuation safety, and support tactics. § 609.2.3(2).
Adjacent to hazardous land uses: to limit spread from high‑risk uses. § 609.2.3(3).
Strategic ridgelines/greenbelts: may be placed along ridgelines or in greenbelts for community‑scale tactics. § 609.2.3(4).

Construction methods (what § 609.2.5 permits)

The code is performance‑ and site‑driven: use the most ecologically and site‑appropriate method(s). Examples listed include prescribed burning, manual treatment, mechanical treatment, prescribed herbivory, and targeted ground application of herbicides. Choice should be coordinated with the fire authority and other permitting agencies. § 609.2.5.

Maintenance (what § 609.2.6 requires)

Jurisdictions must adopt a maintenance mechanism that is binding on the property and ensures the fuel‑break objectives remain over time. Mechanisms may include recorded legal agreements, permanent fees/taxes/assessments, HOA assessments, or other funding tools. § 609.2.6.

Exceptions & special cases

The CWUIC text delegates the determination of specific entry points, number of access points, and precise location to the local jurisdiction in consultation with the fire authority (so local amendments and conditions will matter). See § 609.2.1 and § 609.2.2 for exposure and access coordination.
If a greenbelt/park/open space is intended to serve as a fuel break, it must meet the same Title 14 fuel‑break requirements (CWUIC § 609.2.7 referencing Title 14 §1276.03/§1276.04). Local designations that prohibit building in those spaces are part of that control.
The CWUIC requires fuel breaks to be completed before any permitted construction; there is no permissive language for phased construction unless the local jurisdiction’s permitting explicitly provides alternative sequencing — check local implementation. § 609.2.4.

Common mistakes

Treating the CWUIC language as prescriptive about a single mechanical width or exact treatment method — the code is intentionally site‑ and ecologically based; it lists treatment options but does not prescribe a single technique or numeric clearance in § 609.2.5.
Assuming fuel‑break obligations vanish after construction — § 609.2.6 requires maintenance mechanisms that are binding on the property to preserve fire‑behavior objectives.
Overlooking that greenbelts, parks, and open space used as fuel breaks must conform to the same Title 14 requirements (CWUIC § 609.2.7 referencing Title 14 §1276.03/1276.04).
Forgetting triggers: a subdivision creating three or more new parcels (not just one or two) is an explicit trigger to consider fuel breaks — check § 609.2 (T14 §1276.03(a)).

Worked example — concrete scenario with numbers

Scenario: A developer submits a tentative map to create four new parcels from an existing parcel.

Trigger: Because the application proposes three or more new parcels, the local jurisdiction must determine the need and location for a fuel break pursuant to § 609.2 (T14 §1276.03(a)).
Location decision: The fire authority and jurisdiction review site factors and decide the fuel break will be placed adjacent to the primary access road and between the new lots and an established hazardous land use — permitted choices under § 609.2.3(2)–(3).
Timing: The jurisdiction requires the fuel break to be completed before any foundation or grading permits are issued (consistent with § 609.2.4). Developer must provide evidence of completed treatment as a condition of building permit issuance.
Construction method: The approved plan specifies mechanical thinning plus manual removal of ladder fuels, consistent with using the “most ecologically and site‑appropriate treatment” in § 609.2.5.
Maintenance: The jurisdiction records a covenant requiring an annual maintenance inspection and funds maintenance through a recorded HOA assessment — a mechanism example permitted in § 609.2.6. This covenant runs with the land to ensure long‑term compliance.

Related provisions (CWUIC sections)

§ 609.2 — Fuel breaks: triggers and local jurisdiction role (references Title 14 §1276.03(a)).
§ 609.2.1 — Exposures: fuel breaks must reduce radiant/convective heat and ember exposure.
§ 609.2.2 — Fire department access: fuel breaks must provide at least one point of entry for firefighters and apparatus (local details coordinated with fire authority).
§ 609.2.3 — Location of fuel breaks (detailed location options).
§ 609.2.4 — Timing (must be completed prior to construction).
§ 609.2.5 — Construction methods (ecologically appropriate treatment).
§ 609.2.6 — Maintenance mechanisms binding on the property.
§ 609.2.7 — Greenbelts/greenways/open space when intended to serve as fuel breaks (conform to Title 14 §1276.03).

(For definitions of Fuel Break and Green Belt see the CWUIC definitions that cross‑reference Title 14 terminology.)

Code references

Grounded in the retrieved California Wildland-Urban Interface Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:

CWUIC § 609.2.3 High relevance — show source text
609.2.3 Location of fuel breaks. Fuel breaks may be required at locations such as, but not limited to: (1) Directly adjacent to defensible space as defined by Title 14 CCR Section 1299.02 to reduce radiant and convective heat expo- sure and ember impacts, or support firefighting tactics. (2) Directly adjacent to roads to manage radiant and convective heat exposure and ember impacts, increase evacuation safety, or support firefighting tactics. (3) Directly adjacent to a hazardous land use to limit the spread of fire from such uses, reduce radiant and convective heat exposure, or support firefighting tactics. (4) Strategically located along ridgelines, in greenbelts, or in other locations to reduce radiant and convective heat exposure and ember impacts, or support community level firefighting tactics.

[CCR T14 §1276.03(d)]

609.2.4 Timing. Fuel breaks shall be completed prior to the commencement of any permitted construction. [CCR T14 §1276.03(e)]

609.2.5 Construction. Fuel breaks shall be constructed using the most ecologically and site appropriate treatment option, such as, but not limited to, prescribed burning, manual treatment, mechanical treatment, prescribed herbivory, and targeted ground applica- tion of herbicides. [CCR T14 §1276.03(f)]

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FIRE PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS

609.2.6 Maintenance of fuel breaks. Where a local jurisdiction requires fuel breaks, maintenance mechanisms shall be established to ensure the fire behavior objectives and thresholds are maintained over time.

The mechanisms required shall be binding upon the property for which the fuel break is established, shall ensure adequate main- tenance levels, and may include: written legal agreements; permanent fees, taxes, or assessments; assessments through a homeowners’ association; or other funding mechanisms. [CCR T14 §1276.03(g) and (h)]

609.2.7 Greenbelts, greenways, open spaces and parks. Where a greenbelt, greenway, open space, park, landscaped or natural area or portion thereof is intended to serve as a fuel break, the space or relevant portion thereof shall conform with the requirements in California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Section 1276.03. [CCR T14 §1276.04]

SECTION 610—FIRE SAFE DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS

610.1 General. Pursuant to Public Resources Code, Section 4290, all residential, commercial and industrial building construction within state responsibility areas approved after January 1, 1991, and within lands classified and designated as an LRA Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, as defined in subdivision (i) of Section 51177 of the Government Code after July 1, 2021, shall comply with the SRA Fire Safe Development Regulations as specified in Title 14, Division 1.5, Chapter 7, Subchapter 2.
CWUIC § 609.2.6 High relevance — show source text
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FIRE PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS

609.2.6 Maintenance of fuel breaks. Where a local jurisdiction requires fuel breaks, maintenance mechanisms shall be established to ensure the fire behavior objectives and thresholds are maintained over time.

The mechanisms required shall be binding upon the property for which the fuel break is established, shall ensure adequate main- tenance levels, and may include: written legal agreements; permanent fees, taxes, or assessments; assessments through a homeowners’ association; or other funding mechanisms. [CCR T14 §1276.03(g) and (h)]

609.2.7 Greenbelts, greenways, open spaces and parks. Where a greenbelt, greenway, open space, park, landscaped or natural area or portion thereof is intended to serve as a fuel break, the space or relevant portion thereof shall conform with the requirements in California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Section 1276.03. [CCR T14 §1276.04]

SECTION 610—FIRE SAFE DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS

610.1 General. Pursuant to Public Resources Code, Section 4290, all residential, commercial and industrial building construction within state responsibility areas approved after January 1, 1991, and within lands classified and designated as an LRA Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, as defined in subdivision (i) of Section 51177 of the Government Code after July 1, 2021, shall comply with the SRA Fire Safe Development Regulations as specified in Title 14, Division 1.5, Chapter 7, Subchapter 2.

610.2 Subdivision map findings. Pursuant to Government Code (GC), Section 66474.02, before approving a tentative map, or a parcel map for which a tentative map was not required, for an area located in an SRA or an LRA Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, as both are defined in GC Section 51177, a legislative body of a county, except as provided in GC Section 66474.02(c), shall make findings regarding compliance with the SRA Fire Safe Regulations and the availability of structural fire protection and suppression services. These findings and accompanying map shall be transmitted to the Board of Forestry and Fire Protection and comply with the requirements in Title 14, Division 1.5, Chapter 7, Subchapter 1, Article 1.

SECTION 611—SUBDIVISION REVIEW SURVEY

611.1 Subdivision identification. Pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 4290.5 and Title 14, Division 1.5, Chapter 7, Subchapter 1, Article 2, the Board, in consultation with the Office of the State Fire Marshal, shall survey local governments to identify existing subdivi- sions, as defined in Article 2, located in an SRA area or an LRA Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone without a secondary egress route that is at significant fire risk.

611.2 Fire safety recommendations. The Board, in consultation with the Office of the State Fire Marshal and the local government that identified the subdivision, shall develop recommendations to improve the subdivision’s fire safety. The Board shall provide the final recommendations to the local government that identified the subdivision and to the residents of the subdivision.
CWUIC § 1299.02 High relevance — show source text
_ (b) Fuel Breaks required by the Local Jurisdiction, in consultation with the Fire Authority, shall be located, designed, and main- tained in a condition that reduces the potential of damaging radiant and convective heat or ember exposure to Access routes, Buildings, or infrastructure within the Development. (c) Fuel Breaks shall have, at a minimum, one point of entry for fire fighters and any Fire Apparatus. The specific number of entry points and entry requirements shall be determined by the Local Jurisdiction, in consultation with the Fire Authority. (d) Fuel Breaks may be required at locations such as, but not limited to: (1) Directly adjacent to defensible space as defined by 14 CCR § 1299.02 to reduce radiant and convective heat exposure, ember impacts, or support fire suppression tactics; (2) Directly adjacent to Roads to manage radiant and convective heat exposure or ember impacts, increase evacuation safety, or support fire suppression tactics; (3) Directly adjacent to a Hazardous Land Use to limit the spread of fire from such uses, reduce radiant and convective heat exposure, or support fire suppression tactics; (4) Strategically located along Ridgelines, in Greenbelts, or other locations to reduce radiant and convective heat exposure, ember impacts, or support community level fire suppression tactics. (e) Fuel Breaks shall be completed prior to the commencement of any permitted construction. (f) Fuel Breaks shall be constructed using the most ecologically and site appropriate treatment option, such as, but not limited to, prescribed burning, manual treatment, mechanical treatment, prescribed herbivory, and targeted ground application of herbicides.

(g) Where a Local Jurisdiction requires Fuel Breaks, maintenance mechanisms shall be established to ensure the fire behavior objectives and thresholds are maintained over time. (h) The mechanisms required shall be binding upon the property for which the Fuel Break is established, shall ensure adequate maintenance levels, and may include written legal agreements; permanent fees, taxes, or assessments; assessments through a homeowners' association; or other funding mechanisms.

1276.04 Greenbelts, greenways, open spaces and parks. (a) Where a Greenbelt, Greenway, open space, park, landscaped or natural area, or portions thereof, is intended to serve as a Fuel Break, the space or relevant portion thereof shall conform with the requirements in § 1276.03 (Fuel Breaks).

1276.05 Disposal of flammable vegetation and fuels.

The disposal, including burning or removal to a site approved by the Local Jurisdiction, in consultation with the Fire Authority, of flam- mable vegetation and fuels caused by site construction, Road, and Driveway construction shall be in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations.

H104.2 Subchapter 3 Fire Hazard.

Article 3. Fire Hazard Reduction Around Buildings and Structures

1299.01 Purpose. The intent of this regulation is to provide guidance for implementation of Public Resources Code Section 4291 to improve safety for fire fighters defending a home as well as increase the survivability of a “Building or Structure” as defined, that exists in grass, brush, and forest covered lands within the designated State Responsibility Area (SRA) of California.
CWUIC § 6-5 High relevance — show source text
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FIRE PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS

(2) Noncombustible material extending 5 feet (1524 mm) horizontally from the furthest extent of the building; or (3) Hardscape landscaping; or (4) A reduction of exposed windows on the side of the structure with setback less than 30 feet (9144 mm); or (5) The most protective requirements in Chapter 5.

[CCR T14 §1276.01(b)]

SECTION 609—RIDGELINES, FUEL BREAKS AND GREENBELTS

609.1 Ridgelines.

(a)The Local Jurisdiction shall identify Strategic Ridgelines, if any, to reduce fire risk and improve fire protection through an assessment of the following factors: (1) Topography. (2) Vegetation. (3) Proximity to any existing or proposed residential, commercial or industrial land uses. (4) Construction where mass grading may significantly alter the topography resulting in the elimination of Ridgeline fire risks. (5) Ability to support effective fire suppression. (6) Other factors, if any, deemed relevant by the local jurisdiction. (b) Preservation of Undeveloped Ridgelines identified as strategically important shall be required pursuant to this section. (c) New Buildings on Undeveloped Ridgelines identified as strategically important are prohibited, as described in subsections (c)(1), (c)(2), and (c)(3). (1) New Residential Units are prohibited within or at the top of drainages or other topographic features common to Ridgelines that act as chimneys to funnel convective heat from Wildfires. (2) Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to alter the extent to which utility infrastructure, including but not limited to wire- less telecommunications facilities, as defined in Government Code Section 65850.6, subdivision (d)(2), or Storage Group S or Utility and Miscellaneous Group U Structures, may be constructed on Undeveloped Ridgelines. (3) Local Jurisdictions may approve Buildings on Strategic Ridgelines where Development activities such as mass grading will significantly alter the topography that results in the elimination of Ridgeline fire risks. (d) The Local Jurisdiction may implement further specific requirements to preserve Undeveloped Ridgelines.

[CCR T14 §1276.02]

609.2 Fuel breaks. When applications meet any of the following criteria, the local jurisdiction shall determine the need and location for fuel breaks in consultation with the fire authority: (1) The permitting or approval of three or more new parcels, excluding lot line adjustments as specified in Government Code Section 66412(d); or (2) An application for a change of zoning increasing zoning intensity or density; or (3) An application for a change in use permit increasing use intensity or density.

[CCR T14 §1276.03(a)]

609.2.1 Exposures. Fuel breaks required by the local jurisdiction, in consultation with the fire authority, shall be located, designed and maintained in a condition that reduces the potential of damaging radiant and convective heat or ember exposure to access routes, buildings or infrastructure within the development. [CCR T14 §1276.03(b)]
CWUIC § 1270.01 High relevance — show source text
FIRE-RESISTANCE-RATED CONSTRUCTION. The use of materials and systems in the design and construction of a building or structure to safeguard against the spread of fire within a building or structure and the spread of fire to or from buildings or structures to the wildland-urban interface area.

FIRE-SMART VEGETATION. Plants, shrubs, trees and other vegetation that exhibit properties, such as high moisture content, little accu- mulation of dead vegetation and low sap or resin content, that make them less likely to ignite or contribute heat or spread flame in a fire than native vegetation typically found in the region.

( Note: The following sources contain examples of types of vegetation that can be considered as fire-smart vegetation: Fire-resistant Plants for Home Landscapes, A Pacific Northwest Extension publication; Home Landscaping for Fire, University of California Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources; Sunset Western Garden Book.)

[BG] FLAME SPREAD INDEX. A comparative measure, expressed as a dimensionless number, derived from visual measurements of the spread of flame versus time for a material tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723.

FUEL. Any combustible material, including petroleum-based products, cultivated landscape plants, grasses, weeds and wildland vegetation.

FUEL BREAK (applicable to CCR, Title 14 provisions only). A strategically located area where the volume and arrangement of vegetation has been managed to limit fire intensity, fire severity, rate of spread, crown fire potential and/or ember production. [CCR Title 14 §1270.01(n)]

FUEL MODIFICATION. A method of modifying fuel load by reducing the amount of nonfire-smart vegetation or altering the type of vegetation to reduce the fuel load.

FUEL MOSAIC. A fuel modification system that provides for the creation of islands and irregular boundaries to reduce the visual and ecological impact of fuel modification.

FUEL-LOADING. The oven-dry weight of fuels in a given area, usually expressed in pounds per acre (lb/a) (kg/ha). Fuel-loading may be referenced to fuel size or time-lag categories, and may include surface fuels or total fuels.

GREEN BELT (applicable to CCR, Title 14 provisions only). Open space, parks, wildlands, other areas or a combination thereof, as desig- nated by Local Jurisdictions, which are in, surround or are adjacent to a city or urbanized area, that may function as Fuel Breaks and where Building construction is restricted or prohibited. [CCR Title 14 §1270.01(o)]

GREENWAYS (applicable to CCR, Title 14 provisions only). Linear open spaces or corridors that link parks and neighborhoods within a community through natural or manmade trails and paths. [CCR Title 14 §1270.01(p)]

HAMMERHEAD/T (applicable to CCR, Title 14 provisions only). A “T” shaped, three-point turnaround space for fire apparatus on a road or driveway, being no narrower than the road or driveway that serves it. [CCR Title 14 §1270.01(q)]

CWUIC § 1276.01 High relevance — show source text

1_|Intent|Y||||1276.01||||| |608.2|General|Y||||1276.01(a)||||| |608.2.1|Setback reduction|Y||||1276.01(b)||||| |609|Ridgelines,
Fuel Breaks and
Greenbelts|Y||||1276.02||||4290(a)| |609.1|Ridgelines|Y||||1276.02||||| |609.2|Fuel breaks|Y||||1276.03
1276.03(a)||||| |609.2.1|Exposures|Y||||1276.03(b)||||| |609.2.2|Fire department
access|Y||||1276.03(c)||||| |609.2.3|Location of fuel breaks|Y||||1276.03(d)||||| |609.2.4|Timing|Y||||1276.03(e)||||| |609.2.5|Construction|Y||||1276.03(f)||||| |609.2.6|Maintenance of fuel
breaks|Y||||1276.03(g)
1276.03(h)||||| |609.2.7|Greenbelts, green-
ways, open spaces
and parks|Y||||1276.04
1276.04(a)||||| |610|Fire safe develop-
ment regulations|Y|||4908|||||| |610.1|General|Y|||4908.1|||||| |610.2|Subdivision map
findings|Y|||4908.2||||||

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APPENDIX H—REFERENCED CALIFORNIA DOCUMENTS

2025 CWUIC—continued	Col2	Adopted Yes/No	IWUIC Section	CBC Section	CFC Section	Title 14, Division 1.5 Section	Title 19, Division 1 Section	Gov Code Section	PRC Section	HSC Section
Section	Title	Title	Title	Title	Title	Title	Title	Title	Title	Title
Chapter 6	Fire protection requirements	Fire protection requirements	Fire protection requirements	Fire protection requirements	Fire protection requirements	Fire protection requirements	Fire protection requirements	Fire protection requirements	Fire protection requirements	Fire protection requirements
611	Subdivision review survey	Y			4909
611.1	Subdivision identification	Y			4909.1
611.2	Fire safety recommendations	Y			4909.2
611.3	Implementation	Y			4909.3
611.4	Re-survey	Y			4909.

CWUIC § 1270.01 High relevance — show source text
FUEL MODIFICATION. A method of modifying fuel load by reducing the amount of nonfire-smart vegetation or altering the type of vegetation to reduce the fuel load.

FUEL MOSAIC. A fuel modification system that provides for the creation of islands and irregular boundaries to reduce the visual and ecological impact of fuel modification.

FUEL-LOADING. The oven-dry weight of fuels in a given area, usually expressed in pounds per acre (lb/a) (kg/ha). Fuel-loading may be referenced to fuel size or time-lag categories, and may include surface fuels or total fuels.

GREEN BELT (applicable to CCR, Title 14 provisions only). Open space, parks, wildlands, other areas or a combination thereof, as desig- nated by Local Jurisdictions, which are in, surround or are adjacent to a city or urbanized area, that may function as Fuel Breaks and where Building construction is restricted or prohibited. [CCR Title 14 §1270.01(o)]

GREENWAYS (applicable to CCR, Title 14 provisions only). Linear open spaces or corridors that link parks and neighborhoods within a community through natural or manmade trails and paths. [CCR Title 14 §1270.01(p)]

HAMMERHEAD/T (applicable to CCR, Title 14 provisions only). A “T” shaped, three-point turnaround space for fire apparatus on a road or driveway, being no narrower than the road or driveway that serves it. [CCR Title 14 §1270.01(q)]

HAZARDOUS LAND USE (applicable to CCR, Title 14 provisions only). A land use that presents a significantly elevated potential for the igni- tion, prolonged duration or increased intensity of a wildfire due to the presence of flammable materials, liquids or gasses, or other features that initiate or sustain combustion. Such uses are determined by the local jurisdiction and may include, but are not limited to, power-generation and distribution facilities; wood processing or storage sites; flammable gas or liquids processing or storage sites; or shooting ranges. [CCR Title 14 §1270.01(r)]

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS. As defined in the California Fire Code .

HEAVY TIMBER CONSTRUCTION. As described in the California Building Code .

IGNITION-RESISTANT BUILDING MATERIAL. A type of building material that resists ignition or sustained flaming combustion sufficiently so as to reduce losses from wildfire exposure of burning embers and small flames.

LOCAL RESPONSIBILITY AREA (LRA). Areas of the state in which the financial responsibility of preventing and suppressing fires is the primary responsibility of a city, county, city and county, or district. See also “State Responsibility Area (SRA).”

LOG WALL CONSTRUCTION. A type of construction in which exterior walls are constructed of solid wood members and where the smallest horizontal dimension of each solid wood member is not less than 6 inches (152 mm).

MULTILAYERED GLAZED PANELS. Window or door assemblies that consist of two or more independently glazed panels installed parallel to each other, having a sealed air gap in between, within a frame designed to fill completely the window or door opening in which the assembly is intended to be installed.

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DEFINITIONS

CWUIC § 4902.1 High relevance — show source text

01(i)||||| ||Exterior wall assembly|Y||702A||||||| ||Exterior wall covering|Y||702A||||||| ||Fire chief|Y||||||||| ||Fire code official|Y|||202|||||| ||Fire flow calculation
area|Y||||||||| ||Fire hazard severity
zones|Y||702A|4902.1|||2201||| ||Fire protection plan|Y||702A|4902.1|||||| ||Fire weather|Y||||||||| ||Fire-resistance-rated
construction|Y||||||||| ||Fire-smart vegetation|Y|||4902.1|1271.01||||| ||Flame spread index|Y||||||||| ||Fuel|Y||||||||4291(a)(1)(A)| ||Fuel break_(T14)|Y||||1270.01(n)||||| ||Fuel modification|Y||||||||| ||Fuel mosaic|Y||||||||| ||Fuel-loading|Y||||||||| ||Green belt(T14)|Y||||1270.01(o)||||| ||Greenways (T14)|Y||||1270.01(p)||||| ||Hammerhead/T (T14)|Y||||1270.01(q)||||| ||Hazardous land use
(T14)_|Y||||1270.01(r)||||| ||Hazardous materials|Y||||||||| ||Heavy timber
construction|Y||||||||| ||Ignition-resistant
building material|Y||||||||| ||Local responsibility
area (LRA)|Y||702A|4902.1|||||| ||Log wall construction|Y|||||||||

2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE APPENDIX H-25

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APPENDIX H—REFERENCED CALIFORNIA DOCUMENTS

2025 CWUIC—continued	Col2	Adopted Yes/No	IWUIC Section	CBC Section	CFC Section	Title 14, Division 1.5 Section	Title 19, Division 1 Section	Gov Code Section	PRC Section	HSC Section
Section	Title	Title	Title	Title	Title	Title	Title	Title	Title	Title
Chapter 2	Definitions	Definitions	Definitions	Definitions	Definitions	Definitions	Definitions	Definitions	Definitions	Definitions
	Multilayered glazed panels	Y
	Noncombustible roof covering	Y
	Outbuilding (T14)	Y				1299.02(c)
	Peer review	Y
	Rafter tail	Y		702A
	Registered design professional	Y
	Residential unit (T14)	Y				1270.01(w)
	Ridgeline (topography) (T14)	Y				1270.01(x)
	Road (T14)	Y				1270.

CWUIC § 25.4 Medium relevance — show source text
0254 mm, 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 ksi = 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection limit:L/240.
b. Head and sill track spans are based on components and cladding wind pressures and 48-inch tributary span.
c. For openings less than 4 feet in height that have both a head track and sill track, the spans are permitted to be multiplied by 1.75. For openings less than or equal to 6 feet in
height that have both a head track and a sill track, the spans are permitted to be multiplied by a factor of 1.5.
d. Minimum Grade 33 ksi steel shall be used for 33 mil and 43 mil thicknesses. Minimum Grade 50 ksi steel shall be used for 54 and 68 mil thicknesses.|For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 ksi = 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection limit:L/240.
b. Head and sill track spans are based on components and cladding wind pressures and 48-inch tributary span.
c. For openings less than 4 feet in height that have both a head track and sill track, the spans are permitted to be multiplied by 1.75. For openings less than or equal to 6 feet in
height that have both a head track and a sill track, the spans are permitted to be multiplied by a factor of 1.5.
d. Minimum Grade 33 ksi steel shall be used for 33 mil and 43 mil thicknesses. Minimum Grade 50 ksi steel shall be used for 54 and 68 mil thicknesses.|For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 ksi = 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection limit:L/240.
b. Head and sill track spans are based on components and cladding wind pressures and 48-inch tributary span.
c. For openings less than 4 feet in height that have both a head track and sill track, the spans are permitted to be multiplied by 1.75. For openings less than or equal to 6 feet in
height that have both a head track and a sill track, the spans are permitted to be multiplied by a factor of 1.5.
d. Minimum Grade 33 ksi steel shall be used for 33 mil and 43 mil thicknesses. Minimum Grade 50 ksi steel shall be used for 54 and 68 mil thicknesses.|For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 ksi = 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection limit:L/240.
b. Head and sill track spans are based on components and cladding wind pressures and 48-inch tributary span.
c.
CWUIC § 25.4 Medium relevance — show source text
× 10|21 × 7|17 × 6|14 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |70 psf|3 story—slab-on-grade|29 × 11|22 × 7|17 × 6|14 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |70 psf|3 story—with crawl space|31 × 12|23 × 8|19 × 6|16 × 6|13 × 6|12 × 6| |70 psf|3 story—plus basement|34 × 13|26 × 9|21 × 7|17 × 6|15 × 6|13 × 6| |For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 47.9 N/m2.
a. Linear interpolation of footing width is permitted between the soil bearing pressures in the table. Extrapolation is not permitted.
b. The table is based on the following conditions and loads: building width, 32 feet; wall height, 9 feet; basement wall height, 8 feet; dead loads, 15 psf roof and ceiling assembly,
10 psf floor assembly, 12 psf wall assembly; live loads, roof and ground snow loads as listed, 40 psf first floor, 30 psf second and third floors. Footing sizes are calculated
assuming a clear span roof/ceiling assembly and an interior bearing wall or beam at each floor.
c. Where the building width perpendicular to the wall footing is greater than 32 feet, the footing width shall be increased by 2 inches and footing depth shall be increased by 1
inch for every 4 feet of increase in building width.
d. Where the building width perpendicular to the wall footing is less than 32 feet, a 2-inch decrease in footing width and 1-inch decrease in footing depth is permitted for every 4
feet of decrease in building width provided that the minimum width is 12 inches and minimum depth is 6 inches.
SLAB
ON GRADE
BASEMENT
CRAWL
SPACE|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 47.9 N/m2.
a. Linear interpolation of footing width is permitted between the soil bearing pressures in the table. Extrapolation is not permitted.
b. The table is based on the following conditions and loads: building width, 32 feet; wall height, 9 feet; basement wall height, 8 feet; dead loads, 15 psf roof and ceiling assembly,
10 psf floor assembly, 12 psf wall assembly; live loads, roof and ground snow loads as listed, 40 psf first floor, 30 psf second and third floors. Footing sizes are calculated
assuming a clear span roof/ceiling assembly and an interior bearing wall or beam at each floor.
c. Where the building width perpendicular to the wall footing is greater than 32 feet, the footing width shall be increased by 2 inches and footing depth shall be increased by 1
inch for every 4 feet of increase in building width.
d.

CWUIC § 25.4 Medium relevance — show source text

b, c	Col2	Col3	Col4	Col5
ULTIMATE WIND SPEED (mph)	ULTIMATE WIND SPEED (mph)	MINIMUM SPACING FOR1/2-INCH-DIAMETER ANCHOR BOLTSd	MINIMUM SPACING FOR1/2-INCH-DIAMETER ANCHOR BOLTSd	MINIMUM SPACING FOR1/2-INCH-DIAMETER ANCHOR BOLTSd
Exposure Category	Exposure Category	Stud height,h (feet)	Stud height,h (feet)	Stud height,h (feet)
B	C	10 <h ≤ 14	14 <h ≤ 18	18 <h ≤ 22
115	—	6′-0″ o.c.	6′-0″ o.c.	6′-0″ o.c.
120	—	6′-0″ o.c.	5′-7″ o.c.	6′-0″ o.c.
130	115	5′-0″ o.c.	6′-0″ o.c.	6′-0″ o.c.
< 140	120	6′-0″ o.c.	5′-6″ o.c.	6′-0″ o.c.
—	130	5′-3″ o.c.	6′-0″ o.c.	6′-0″ o.c.
—	< 140	3′-0″ o.c.	3′-0″ o.c.	3′-0″ o.c.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 foot = 304.8 mm. a. Refer to Table R603.3.1.1(1) for gable endwall bottom track to floor joist or track connection connections. b. Where attachment is not given, special design is required. c. Stud height,h, is measured from wall bottom track to wall top track or brace connection height. d. Foundation anchor straps are permitted in place of anchor bolts if spaced as required to provide equivalent anchorage to the required anchor bolts and installed in accor- dance with manufacturer’s requirements.	For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 foot = 304.8 mm. a. Refer to Table R603.3.1.1(1) for gable endwall bottom track to floor joist or track connection connections. b. Where attachment is not given, special design is required. c. Stud height,h, is measured from wall bottom track to wall top track or brace connection height. d. Foundation anchor straps are permitted in place of anchor bolts if spaced as required to provide equivalent anchorage to the required anchor bolts and installed in accor- dance with manufacturer’s requirements.	For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 foot = 304.8 mm. a.

CWUIC § 607.1 Medium relevance — show source text
SECTION 607—STORAGE OF FIREWOOD AND COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS

607.1 General. Firewood and combustible material shall not be stored in unenclosed spaces beneath buildings or structures, or on decks or under eaves, canopies or other projections or overhangs. Firewood piles shall be located 30 feet (9144 mm) or more from structures unless completely covered by a fire-resistant material. Exposed wood piles located within the defensible space shall have a minimum clearance of 10 feet (3048 mm) down to bare mineral soil in all directions.

607.2 Storage for off-site use. Firewood and combustible materials not for consumption on the premises shall be stored so as to not pose a hazard. See Appendix A.

SECTION 608—BUILDING SITING AND SETBACKS

608.1 Intent. This section is intended to reduce the intensity of a Wildfire by reducing the volume and density of flammable vegetation around Development through strategic fuel modification, parcel siting, Building setbacks and the protection of Undeveloped Ridgelines, thus providing increased safety for emergency fire equipment and evacuating civilians, and a point of attack or defense from a Wildfire.

[CCR T14 §1276.00]

608.2 General. All parcels shall provide a minimum 30-foot (9144 mm) setback for all buildings from property lines and the center of a road, except as provided for in Section 608.2.1. [CCR T14 §1276.01(a)]

608.2.1 Setback reduction. A reduction in the minimum setback shall be based upon practical reasons, which may include but are not limited to, parcel dimensions or size; topographic limitations; Development density requirements or other Development patterns that promote low-carbon emission outcomes; sensitive habitat; or other site constraints, and shall provide for an alternative method to reduce structure-to-structure ignition by incorporating features such as, but not limited to: (1) Noncombustible block walls or fences; or

2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE 6-5

on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

FIRE PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS

(2) Noncombustible material extending 5 feet (1524 mm) horizontally from the furthest extent of the building; or (3) Hardscape landscaping; or (4) A reduction of exposed windows on the side of the structure with setback less than 30 feet (9144 mm); or (5) The most protective requirements in Chapter 5.

[CCR T14 §1276.01(b)]

SECTION 609—RIDGELINES, FUEL BREAKS AND GREENBELTS

609.1 Ridgelines.

(a)The Local Jurisdiction shall identify Strategic Ridgelines, if any, to reduce fire risk and improve fire protection through an assessment of the following factors: (1) Topography. (2) Vegetation. (3) Proximity to any existing or proposed residential, commercial or industrial land uses. (4) Construction where mass grading may significantly alter the topography resulting in the elimination of Ridgeline fire risks. (5) Ability to support effective fire suppression. (6) _Other factors, if any, deemed relevant by the local jurisdiction.

Frequently asked questions

Who decides whether a fuel break is required for my project?

The local jurisdiction (city or county) makes the determination in consultation with the local fire authority when an application meets the triggers in § 609.2 (e.g., three or more new parcels, zoning or use changes).

Can a developer build first and install a fuel break later?

No. The CWUIC requires fuel breaks to be completed prior to the commencement of any permitted construction under § 609.2.4. Any phasing or sequencing must be explicitly approved by the local jurisdiction.

Are fuel breaks a one‑time obligation?

No. Where required, the local jurisdiction must establish maintenance mechanisms that are binding on the property to ensure the fuel break’s objectives persist (examples listed in § 609.2.6).

If an open space or park is used as a fuel break, does it follow the same rules?

Yes. CWUIC § 609.2.7 says any greenbelt, park, open space or portion intended to serve as a fuel break must conform to the requirements in Title 14 §1276.03 (as implemented in the CWUIC subsections).

Does the CWUIC specify exact treatments (widths, clearance distances)?

No — the CWUIC requires use of the most ecologically and site‑appropriate treatment methods and delegates specifics to the local jurisdiction and fire authority; the code lists typical methods but does not prescribe a single universal numeric clearance in § 609.2.5.

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Related in the CWUIC

Where does the CWUIC reference the SRA Fire Safe Development Regulations (Title 14) and PRC cross‑references?

Which CWUIC definitions explicitly reference CCR Title 14 (e.g., ridgeline, residential unit, road)?

CCR Title 14 (Div. 1.5) cross-references, SRA regulations, and Title 14 definitions

California Wildland-Urban Interface Code