CWUIC · California Wildland-Urban Interface Code

What inspection or certification methods are acceptable for vegetation compliance?

You must submit a vegetation management plan with the permit (showing 30‑ft and 100‑ft fuel zones and maintenance), and the enforcing agency will require proof of compliance before final approval — accepted proofs include inspection by the fire authority, enforcing‑agency inspection, an agency‑authorized third‑party certification, or owner certification only if the agency allows it.

Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2–4 sentences

Before a building permit can receive final approval the property must meet the vegetation management requirements of § A106.4 and Section 603 (including PRC 4291 or Gov. Code 51182 as applicable). § A106.4 says the enforcing agency decides acceptable inspection/documentation methods and explicitly permits several methods: inspection by a fire authority or designee, enforcing‑agency inspection, an authorized third‑party inspection/certification, or property owner certification if the enforcing agency allows it.

The single most important rule: the property must be in compliance with the vegetation requirements in Section 603 (and applicable state statutes) prior to building permit final approval; the enforcing agency chooses which inspection/certification method it will accept.

Requirements in detail

Summary of who/what the code permits

  • Submit a vegetation management plan as part of permit plans — § B101.1. The plan must describe actions to prevent fire spread toward/from the building and include a site plan, methods/timetables for clearing/removal and a maintenance plan.
  • The enforcing agency determines which inspection or documentation method is acceptable § A106.4; acceptable methods listed in the code include: (1) local/state/federal fire authority or designee, (2) the enforcing agency, (3) third‑party inspection and certification authorized to enforce vegetation requirements, and (4) property owner certification if authorized.

Decision dimensions (table)

Decision factor Acceptable method (examples) Who may perform Typical documentation to provide Code reference
Official inspection Fire marshal / local/state/federal fire authority or designee Fire authority personnel or their authorized designee Signed inspection report, date of inspection, scope checked § A106.4
Enforcing‑agency inspection Building or fire department inspectors of the issuing agency Enforcing agency inspectors Agency inspection/clearance form or field report § A106.4
Third‑party certification Independent contractor/consultant authorized by enforcing agency Third‑party with authorization/certification from agency Third‑party report or certificate signed by authorized inspector § A106.4
Owner certification Property owner certification (only if enforcing agency authorizes it) Owner or owner’s agent (when allowed) Owner-signed certification form or affidavit as defined by the enforcing agency § A106.4
Plan submittal content Vegetation management (fuel modification) plan Applicant / designer Site plan; methods & timetables for removal/thinning; maintenance plan § B101.1 / § B101.2
Fuel‑management zone definition Delineation of 30‑ft and 100‑ft fuel management zones (where required) Applicant in landscape/vegetation plan Map with zones and plant legend § 603.3.1

Documentation & authority notes

  • The enforcing agency has discretion to require whatever inspection/documentation it deems necessary to demonstrate compliance; the code lists examples but does not limit the agency from requiring additional substantiation.
  • Appendix B (Vegetation Management Plan) provides a recommended plan content checklist but is informational and is not mandatory unless adopted by the local ordinance; nonetheless § B101.1 requires submission of a vegetation management plan where applicable.

Exceptions & special cases

  • Appendix B is informational: items in Appendix B become mandatory only if the adopting jurisdiction specifically includes Appendix B in its local ordinance. Do not assume Appendix B items are automatically required statewide.
  • Owner certification is only acceptable when the enforcing agency authorizes that form of documentation; some agencies will not accept owner self‑certification for initial compliance or in high‑hazard areas. § A106.4 explicitly makes owner certification a permitted option only if authorized by the enforcing agency.
  • Fuel modification is treated as an ongoing obligation: to be treated as a fuel modification under the code, the clearance must be continuously maintained (see § B101.3). If maintenance lapses, enforcement or re‑inspection may be required.

Common mistakes

  • Treating Appendix B as mandatory everywhere — Appendix B is informational unless the local jurisdiction adopts it.
  • Not submitting a vegetation management plan with permit documents when required by § B101.1. Failing to include the site plan, timetable for work, or maintenance plan is a frequent cause of review delays.
  • Assuming owner certification is always acceptable — owner certification is acceptable only if the enforcing agency authorizes it under § A106.4.
  • Relying on an inspection method that the enforcing agency did not approve (for example: hiring a third‑party inspector before obtaining the agency’s authorization to accept third‑party reports). Get the agency’s acceptance in writing.

Worked example — concrete scenario

Scenario: New single‑family structure being built in a Very‑High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. The jurisdiction requires submission of a vegetation plan.

  1. Plan submittal: The applicant prepares a vegetation management plan showing the property site plan, delineated 30‑ft and 100‑ft fuel management zones, proposed plant list, and a maintenance schedule and submits it with the permit application as required by § B101.1 / B101.2 and § 603.3.1.
  2. Enforcement method selection: The local fire agency notifies the applicant that final approval will require either (a) an on‑site inspection by the local fire authority or (b) a third‑party certification from an agency‑approved inspector. The agency declines to accept owner self‑certification in this high‑hazard zone (exercise of discretion under § A106.4).
  3. Field work and inspection: The owner completes the clearance work described in the plan (removal of slash, snags, ladder fuels, dead trees, and thinning live trees in the 30‑ft zone; thinning/maintenance in the 100‑ft zone per the plan). The chosen inspector performs an on‑site inspection and issues a signed inspection/clearance report that references the submitted vegetation plan.
  4. Final approval: The building official receives the inspector’s signed report and verifies compliance with Section 603 and PRC 4291 (as required by § A106.4). The building permit is granted final approval.

Checklist for the applicant in this example: submit vegetation plan (B101.1), confirm which inspection methods the enforcing agency accepts (A106.4), perform the work per plan, secure an accepted inspection/certification document, deliver it to the building official before final approval.

Related provisions

  • § A106.4 — Vegetation management compliance: lists acceptable inspection/certification methods and ties compliance to Section 603 and state statutes.
  • § B101.1 — Vegetation management plans must be submitted for review and approval as part of permit plans.
  • § B101.2 / B101.3 — Vegetation plan content and requirement that fuel modification be continuously maintained.
  • § 603.1 / § 603.2 / § 603.3.1 / § 603.4 — Vegetation plan and fuel‑management zone requirements (including delineation of 30‑ft and 100‑ft zones and plant legend/identification).
  • Appendix B — Vegetation Management Plan (informational unless adopted by local ordinance).

Code references

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

  • CWUIC § 106.3 High relevance — show source text

    [A] 106.3 Site plan. In addition to the requirements for plans in the California Building Code, site plans shall include topography, width and percent of grade of access roads, landscape and vegetation details, locations of structures or building envelopes, existing or proposed overhead utilities, occupancy classification of buildings, types of ignition-resistant construction of buildings, structures and their appendages, roof classification of buildings and site water supply systems. The code official is authorized to waive or modify the requirement for a site plan where the application for permit is for alteration or repair or where otherwise warranted.

    [A] 106.4 Vegetation management compliance . Prior to the building permit final approval, the property shall be in compliance with the vegetation management requirements prescribed in Section 603, including California Public Resources Code 4291 or California Government Code Section 51182. Acceptable methods of compliance inspection and documentation shall be determined by the enforc- ing agency and shall be permitted to include any of the following: 1. Local, state or federal fire authority or designee authorized to enforce vegetation management requirements. 2. Enforcing agency.

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    ADMINISTRATION

    3. Third-party inspection and certification authorized to enforce vegetation management requirements. 4. Property owner certification authorized by the enforcing agency.

    [A] 106.5 Fire protection plan. Where required by the code official pursuant to Section 602, a fire protection plan shall be prepared and shall be submitted to the code official for review and approved as a part of the plans required for a permit.

    [A] 106.6 Other data and substantiation. Where required by the code official, the plans and specifications shall include classification of fuel loading, fuel model light, medium or heavy, and substantiating data to verify classification of fire-smart vegetation.

    [A] 106.7 Vicinity plan. In addition to the requirements for site plans, plans shall include details regarding the vicinity within 300 feet (91 440 mm) of lot lines, including other structures, slope, vegetation, fuel breaks, water supply systems and access roads.

    [A] 106.8 Retention of plans. One set of approved plans, specifications and computations shall be retained by the code official for a period of not less than 180 days from date of completion of the permitted work or as required by state or local laws; and one set of approved plans and specifications shall be returned to the applicant, and said set shall be kept on the site of the building, use or work at all times during which the work authorized thereby is in progress. Refer to Building Standards Law, Health and Safety Code Sections 19850 and 19851 for permanent retention of plans.

    [A] 106.9 Examination of documents. The code official shall examine or cause to be examined the accompanying construction documents and shall ascertain by such examinations whether the construction indicated and described is in accordance with the requirements of this code and other pertinent laws or ordinances.

    [A] 106.10 Amended construction documents. Work shall be installed in accordance with the approved construction documents, and changes made during construction that are not in compliance with the approved documents shall be resubmitted for approval as an amended set of construction documents.

  • CWUIC § 703.1 High relevance — show source text

    Certification by a national or regional green building program or standard publisher. 2. Certification by a statewide energy consulting or verification organization, building performance contractors and home energy auditors. 3. Successful completion of a third party apprentice training program in the appropriate trade. 4. Other programs acceptable to the enforcing agency.

    Note: Special inspectors shall be independent entities with no financial interest in the materials or the project they are inspecting for compliance with this code.

    [BSC-CG] When required by the enforcing agency, the owner or the responsible entity acting as the owner’s agent shall employ one or more special inspectors to provide inspection or other duties necessary to substantiate compliance with this code. Special inspectors shall demonstrate competence to the satisfaction of the enforcing agency for the particular type of inspection or task to be performed. In addition, the special inspector shall have a certification from a recognized state, national or international association, as determined by the local agency. The area of certification shall be closely related to the primary job function, as determined by the local agency.

    Note: Special inspectors shall be independent entities with no financial interest in the materials or the project they are inspecting for compliance with this code.

    SECTION 703—VERIFICATIONS

    703.1 Documentation. Documentation used to show compliance with this code shall include but is not limited to, construction documents, plans, specifications, builder or installer certification, inspection reports or other methods acceptable to the enforcing agency which demonstrate substantial conformance. When specific documentation or special inspection is necessary to verify compliance, that method of compliance will be specified in the appropriate section or identified in the application checklist.

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    CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    CHAPTER 8 – COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL

    (Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)

    Adopting agency BSC BSC-
    CG
    SFM HCD Col6 Col7 DSA Col9 OSHPD Col11 Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC
    Adopting agency BSC BSC-
    CG
    SFM 1 2 1/AC AC SS 1 1R 2 3 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
    Adopt entire CA chapter X
    Adopt entire chapter as
    amended (amended
    sections listed below)
    Adopt only those sections
    that are listed
  • CWUIC § 106.1 High relevance — show source text
    1. It is used by a person other than the person to whom the permit was issued.
    2. It is used for a location other than that for which the permit was issued.
    3. Any of the conditions or limitations set forth in the permit have been violated.
    4. The permittee fails, refuses or neglects to comply with any order or notice duly served on him or her under the provisions of this code within the time provided therein.
    5. There has been any false statement or misrepresentation as to material fact in the application or plans on which the permit or application was made.
    6. The permit is issued in error or in violation of any other ordinance, regulations or provisions of this code.

    The code official is allowed to, in writing, suspend or revoke a permit issued under the provisions of this code whenever the permit is issued in error or on the basis of incorrect information supplied, or in violation of any ordinance or regulation or any of the provisions of this code.

    SECTION 106—CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS

    [A] 106.1 General. Plans, engineering calculations, diagrams and other data shall be submitted in not fewer than two sets, or in a digital format where allowed by the code official, with each application for a permit. The construction documents shall be prepared by a registered design professional where required by the statutes of the jurisdiction in which the project is to be constructed. Where special conditions exist, the code official is authorized to require additional documents to be prepared by a registered design professional.

    Exception: Submission of plans, calculations, construction inspection requirements and other data, if it is found that the nature of the work applied for is such that reviewing of plans is not necessary to obtain compliance with this code.

    [A] 106.2 Information on plans and specifications. Plans and specifications shall be drawn to scale on substantial paper or cloth and shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate the location, nature and extent of the work proposed, and show in detail that it will conform to the provisions of this code and relevant laws, ordinances, rules and regulations.

    [A] 106.3 Site plan. In addition to the requirements for plans in the California Building Code, site plans shall include topography, width and percent of grade of access roads, landscape and vegetation details, locations of structures or building envelopes, existing or proposed overhead utilities, occupancy classification of buildings, types of ignition-resistant construction of buildings, structures and their appendages, roof classification of buildings and site water supply systems. The code official is authorized to waive or modify the requirement for a site plan where the application for permit is for alteration or repair or where otherwise warranted.

    [A] 106.4 Vegetation management compliance . Prior to the building permit final approval, the property shall be in compliance with the vegetation management requirements prescribed in Section 603, including California Public Resources Code 4291 or California Government Code Section 51182. Acceptable methods of compliance inspection and documentation shall be determined by the enforc- ing agency and shall be permitted to include any of the following: 1. Local, state or federal fire authority or designee authorized to enforce vegetation management requirements. 2. Enforcing agency.

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    3. Third-party inspection and certification authorized to enforce vegetation management requirements. 4. Property owner certification authorized by the enforcing agency.

  • CWUIC § 7106P-01 High relevance — show source text

    SUMMARY

    This procedure describes how to perform pre-inspection patrols specific to the Enhanced Vegetation Management (EVM) program in effort to reduce vegetation related risks to electric distribution and transmission facilities.

    Level of Use: Informational Use

    TARGET AUDIENCE

    Vegetation management (VM) operational employees and contractors involved in preinspection (PI) activities.

    SAFETY

    NA

    BEFORE YOU START

    NA

    TABLE OF CONTENTS

    SUBSECTION TITLE PAGE

    1 General Expectations ........................................................................................ 2

    2 Overhanging Vegetation .................................................................................... 2

    3 Primary Conductor Radial Clearance ................................................................ 2

    4 Trees with Strike Potential ................................................................................. 3

    5 LIDAR Based Vegetation Points ........................................................................ 3

    6 Customer Refusal ............................................................................................. 4

    Appendix A, Diagram of EVM Tree Work Standards ............................................................ 6

    PG&E Internal ©2020 Pacific Gas and Electric Company. All rights reserved. Page 1 of 6

    Utility Procedure: TD-7106P-01

    Publication Date: 05/12/2020 Rev: 0

    PROCEDURE STEPS

    1 General Expectations

    1.1 All overhead electric distribution and transmission facilities must be inspected for the following conditions:

    - Vegetation overhanging the conductors, per Section 2.
    
    
    - Vegetation currently or potential to encroach within 4-ft. of the primary conductor
    

    before the next routine cycle, per Section 3.

    - Vegetation tall enough to strike the facilities, per Section 4.
    

    1.2 IF there is any known risk to the electric facilities, THEN prescribe the tree for work.

    1.3 IF the prescribed tree work will create a subsequent hazard, THEN prescribe tree for removal.

    1.4 IF the tree is observed within the minimum distance requirements (MDR) (see Utility

    “ ” Procedure TD-7102P-01, Vegetation Management Distribution Routine Patrol Procedure ) or the tree is failing,

    “ THEN follow Utility Procedure TD-7103P-09, Vegetation Management Hazard Notification Procedure.”

    1.5 WHEN an abnormal field condition is identified, THEN follow Utility Procedure TD-7102P-09, “Reporting Abnormal Field Conditions Procedure.

    2 Overhanging Vegetation

    2.1 The PI must prescribe clearance of any vegetation if:

    - The vegetation is currently within the 4-ft. vertical plane (see Appendix A) of primary
    

    conductor, or

    - The vegetation will enter the 4-ft. vertical plane before the next routine/compliance
    

    cycle.

    3 Primary Conductor Radial Clearance

    3.1 For vegetation with the potential to encroach within a 4-ft. radius of the primary conductor before the next routine/compliance tree work cycle, PRESCRIBE a minimum of 12-ft. radial clearance.

  • CWUIC § 7102P-01 High relevance — show source text

    “ ” Procedure TD-7102P-01, Vegetation Management Distribution Routine Patrol Procedure ) or the tree is failing,

    “ THEN follow Utility Procedure TD-7103P-09, Vegetation Management Hazard Notification Procedure.”

    1.5 WHEN an abnormal field condition is identified, THEN follow Utility Procedure TD-7102P-09, “Reporting Abnormal Field Conditions Procedure.

    2 Overhanging Vegetation

    2.1 The PI must prescribe clearance of any vegetation if:

    - The vegetation is currently within the 4-ft. vertical plane (see Appendix A) of primary
    

    conductor, or

    - The vegetation will enter the 4-ft. vertical plane before the next routine/compliance
    

    cycle.

    3 Primary Conductor Radial Clearance

    3.1 For vegetation with the potential to encroach within a 4-ft. radius of the primary conductor before the next routine/compliance tree work cycle, PRESCRIBE a minimum of 12-ft. radial clearance.

    PG&E Internal ©2020 Pacific Gas and Electric Company. All rights reserved. Page 2 of 6

    Utility Procedure: TD-7106P-01

    Publication Date: 05/12/2020 Rev: 0

    3.2 Coastal redwoods and giant sequoias are not required to be removed or mitigated below conductor height (i.e. “topped") when the tree trunk occurs within the 4-ft. radius of the primary conductor, IF the tree has no indications of any of the following conditions:

    - Re-sprouting from the bole of the tree resulting in annual non-compliance.
    
    
    - Significant defects.
    
    
    - Poor trunk attachments related to secondary re-growth from past trunk failures.
    

    4 Trees with Strike Potential

    4.1 INSPECT all trees tall enough to strike facilities.

    4.2 IF the tree is tall enough to strike, CREATE a vegetation point. For LIDAR generated vegetation points, refer to Section 5.

    4.3 ASSESS the tree using the tree assessment tool (TAT) within GISArc Collector.

    - For trees with an “abate” result, PRESCRIBE the tree work to remove the risk.
    
    
    - For trees with a “do not abate” result, POPULATE fields as follows:
    
    
       - Status select “No Work Required under EVM.”
    
    
       - Prescription select “NW_No Work.”
    

    5 LIDAR Based Vegetation Points

    NOTE

    Vegetation points based on LIDAR data are considered accurate. Physical validation is required before the inspection is considered complete. This will ensure all trees with strike potential are properly identified and mitigated.

    5.1 All LIDAR based vegetation points must be validated by a PI.

    5.2 The PI must assess each vegetation point, as specified in Step 1.1.

  • CWUIC § 7-1 High relevance — show source text

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 7-1

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    7 INSTALLER AND SPECIAL INSPECTOR QUALIFICATIONS

    SECTION 701—GENERAL (RESERVED)

    SECTION 702—QUALIFICATIONS

    702.1 Installer training. HVAC system installers shall be trained and certified in the proper installation of HVAC systems including ducts and equipment by a nationally or regionally recognized training or certification program. Uncertified persons may perform HVAC installations when under the direct supervision and responsibility of a person trained and certified to install HVAC systems or contractor licensed to install HVAC systems. Examples of acceptable HVAC training and certification programs include but are not limited to the following:

    1. State certified apprenticeship programs.
    2. Public utility training programs.
    3. Training programs sponsored by trade, labor or statewide energy consulting or verification organizations.
    4. Programs sponsored by manufacturing organizations.
    5. Other programs acceptable to the enforcing agency.

    702.2 Special inspection.

    [HCD] When required by the enforcing agency, the owner or the responsible entity acting as the owner’s agent shall employ one or more special inspectors to provide inspection or other duties necessary to substantiate compliance with this code. Special inspectors shall demonstrate competence to the satisfaction of the enforcing agency for the particular type of inspection or task to be performed. In addition to other certifications or qualifications acceptable to the enforcing agency, the following certifications or education may be considered by the enforcing agency when evaluating the qualifications of a special inspector:

    1. Certification by a national or regional green building program or standard publisher.
    2. Certification by a statewide energy consulting or verification organization, building performance contractors and home energy auditors.
    3. Successful completion of a third party apprentice training program in the appropriate trade.
    4. Other programs acceptable to the enforcing agency.

    Note: Special inspectors shall be independent entities with no financial interest in the materials or the project they are inspecting for compliance with this code.

    [BSC-CG] When required by the enforcing agency, the owner or the responsible entity acting as the owner’s agent shall employ one or more special inspectors to provide inspection or other duties necessary to substantiate compliance with this code. Special inspectors shall demonstrate competence to the satisfaction of the enforcing agency for the particular type of inspection or task to be performed. In addition, the special inspector shall have a certification from a recognized state, national or international association, as determined by the local agency. The area of certification shall be closely related to the primary job function, as determined by the local agency.

    Note: Special inspectors shall be independent entities with no financial interest in the materials or the project they are inspecting for compliance with this code.

    SECTION 703—VERIFICATIONS

    703.1 Documentation. Documentation used to show compliance with this code shall include but is not limited to, construction documents, plans, specifications, builder or installer certification, inspection reports or other methods acceptable to the enforcing agency which demonstrate substantial conformance. When specific documentation or special inspection is necessary to verify compliance, that method of compliance will be specified in the appropriate section or identified in the application checklist.

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  • CWUIC § 104.2.2.7 High relevance — show source text

    Outbuilding 202

    Peer Review 104.2.2.7, 202 Permits

    Application 105.4 Approval 105.5 Expiration 105.8 Issuance 105.6 Preliminary inspection 105.4.1 Refusal to issue 105.6.1

    Required 105.2 Retention 105.9

    Revocation 105.10 Validity 105.7 Work exempt from permit 105.3 Placarding as Unsafe 109.3.5.3 Powers and Duties of the Code

    Official 104.1

    Practical Difficulties 104.2.3 Protection of Pumps and Water Storage Facilities Appendix A, A107

    Rafter Tail 202 Referenced Standards 102.4, Chapter 7 Registered Design Professional 104.2.1.2, 104.2.2.6.2, 106.1, 202 Residential Unit 202 Retroactivity 101.4 Ridgelline 202 Road 202 Roof Covering 202 Roof Covering System 202 Roof Coverings, Replacement or Repair of 507

    Roof Deck 202

    Scope 101 Self-Defense Mechanism Appendix G Service Utilities 111

    Slope 202 Spark Arrestors 605 Stop Work Order 113 Storage of Firewood and Combustible Materials 607 Strategic Ridgeline 202 Structure 202

    Subdivision 202

    Technical Assistance 104.2.1 Temporary Uses, Equipment and Systems 107 Tree Crown 202

    Trees 603.4.2

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    INDEX

    Undeveloped Ridgeline 202 Unenclosed Accessory Structure 202

    Vegetation Control Appendix A, A102 Vegetation management compliance 106.4 Vegetation Management Plan Appendix B Vents 504.10

    Vertical Curve 202

    Water Supply Adequate water supply 404.5 Applicability 402 Draft sites 404.3 Hydrants 404.4 Identification 404.8

    Obstructions 404.7 Reliability 404.10 Required water supply 404.2 Subdivisions 402.1 Testing and maintenance 404.9 Water sources 404.2

    Wildfire 202

    Wildland 202

    Wildland-Urban Interface Area 202

    Wildland-Urban Interface Area Designations 302 Declaration 302.1

    Mapping 302.2 Review 302.3

    INDEX-2 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE

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    HISTORY NOTE APPENDIX

    2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 7

    HISTORY:

  • CWUIC § 403.2 High relevance — show source text

    APPENDIX I-4 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE

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    Access Applicability 402 Driveways 403.2 Fire apparatus access roads 403.3 Grade 403.7

    Individual structures 402.2 Marking of roads 402.3, 403.4 Restricted 403.1

    Subdivisions 402.1 Accessory Buildings and Miscellaneous Structures

    Defined 202

    Detached 504.11 Exempt from permit 105.3 Additions or Alterations 101.5

    Address Markers 402.3 Agriculture 202 Alternative Materials or Methods 104.2.2

    Appeals 112 Appendices 101.2.1 Applicable Building 202 Applicability 102 Approved 202 Approved Agency 104.2.2.6.1, 202 Authority of Code Official 104

    Building 202 Building Official 202

    Certificate of Completion 111 Certificate of occupancy 111.2 Revocation 111.4

    Temporary occupancy 111.3

    Code Official 202 Code Official, Authority 104 Community Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Fire Hazard Evaluation Framework Appendix C Compliance Alternatives 105 Construction Documents 106

    Amended 106.10

    Examination of 106.9 Information on plans and specifications 106.2 Phased 106.12

    Previous approval 106.11 Retention of 106.8 Site plan 106.3 Vegetation management plans 106.4 Control of Storage Appendix A, A105 Critical Fire Weather 202

    Dead-end Road 202 Defensible Space 403, 601.3 Vegetation Plan 603 Definitions 202 Designation of Wildland-Urban Interface Area 302.1

    Director 202 Driveway 202 Dumping Appendix A, A106 Dwelling 202

    Exterior Covering 202

    INDEX

    Fees 109 Findings of Fact Appendix E Fire Chief 202 Fire Danger Rating System Appendix D Fire Flow Calculation Area Application 404.5 Defined 202 Fire Hazard Severity Zones 1.1.2, 202, 302.1, 302.2, Appendix D, Appendix H Fire Protection Plans 602

    Fire Weather 202

    Fire-Resistance-Rated Construction 501.3 Fire-Resistive Vegetation Appendix F Fire-Retardant-Treated Lumber or

    Wood 503.2, 504.5, 504.7, 504.11 Flame Spread Index 202 Flashing 504.2.1, 504.5.1 Fuel Break 202, 609 Fuel Models Appendix D Fuel Modification 202

    Fuel Modification Distance 603.2

    Fuel Mosaic 202 Fuel-Loading 202

    General Requirements Appendix A Green Belt 202

    Greenways 202

  • California Wildland-Urban Interface Code High relevance — show source text

    × 6|13 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |20 psf roof live load or 25 psf
    ground snow load|3 story—with crawl space|28 × 10|21 × 7|17 × 6|14 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |20 psf roof live load or 25 psf
    ground snow load|3 story—plus basement|31 × 12|23 × 8|18 × 6|15 × 6|13 × 6|12 × 6| |30 psf|1 story—slab-on-grade|13 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |30 psf|1 story—with crawl space|16 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |30 psf|1 story—plus basement|19 × 7|14 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |30 psf|2 story—slab-on-grade|19 × 6|15 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |30 psf|2 story—with crawl space|22 × 7|16 × 6|13 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |30 psf|2 story—plus basement|25 × 9|19 × 6|15 × 6|13 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |30 psf|3 story—slab-on-grade|26 × 9|19 × 6|15 × 6|13 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |30 psf|3 story—with crawl space|28 × 10|21 × 7|17 × 6|14 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |30 psf|3 story—plus basement|31 × 12|23 × 8|19 × 6|16 × 6|13 × 6|12 × 6| |50 psf|1 story—slab-on-grade|15 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |50 psf|1 story—with crawl space|18 × 6|13 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |50 psf|1 story—plus basement|21× 7|16 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |50 psf|2 story—slab-on-grade|21 × 7|16 × 6|13 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |50 psf|2 story—with crawl space|24 × 8|18 × 6|14 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |50 psf|2 story—plus basement|27 × 10|20 × 6|16 × 6|13 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |50 psf|3 story—slab-on-grade|27 × 10|20 × 6|16 × 6|14 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |50

  • California Wildland-Urban Interface Code High relevance — show source text

    crawl space|15 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |30 psf|1 story—plus basement|18 × 6|14 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |30 psf|2 story—slab-on-grade|18 × 6|14 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |30 psf|2 story—with crawl space|20 × 6|15 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |30 psf|2 story—plus basement|24 × 8|18 × 6|14 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |30 psf|3 story—slab-on-grade|23 × 8|18 × 6|14 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |30 psf|3 story—with crawl space|26 × 9|19 × 6|15 × 6|13 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |30 psf|3 story—plus basement|29 × 11|22 × 7|17 × 6|14 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |50 psf|1 story—slab-on-grade|14 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |50 psf|1 story—with crawl space|17 × 6|13 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |50 psf|1 story—plus basement|20 × 60|15 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |50 psf|2 story—slab-on-grade|20 × 6|15 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |50 psf|2 story—with crawl space|22 × 7|17 × 6|13 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |50 psf|2 story—plus basement|25 × 9|19 × 6|15 × 6|13 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |50 psf|3 story—slab-on-grade|25 × 9|19 × 6|15 × 6|13 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |50 psf|3 story—with crawl space|27 × 10|21 × 7|16 × 6|14 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |50 psf|3 story—plus basement|31 × 12|23 × 8|18 × 6|15 × 6|13 × 6|12 × 6| |70 psf|1 story—slab-on-grade|14 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |70 psf|1 story—with crawl space|17 × 6|14 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |70 psf|1 story—plus basement|22 × 7|16

  • California Wildland-Urban Interface Code High relevance — show source text

    × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |20 psf roof live load or 25 psf
    ground snow load|3 story—with crawl space|18 × 6|14 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |20 psf roof live load or 25 psf
    ground snow load|3 story—plus basement|22 × 7|16 × 6|13 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |30 psf|1 story—slab-on-grade|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |30 psf|1 story—with crawl space|13 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |30 psf|1 story—plus basement|16 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |30 psf|2 story—slab-on-grade|13 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |30 psf|2 story—with crawl space|16 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |30 psf|2 story—plus basement|19 × 6|14 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |30 psf|3 story—slab-on-grade|16 × 6|14 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |30 psf|3 story—with crawl space|19 × 6|14 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |30 psf|3 story—plus basement|22 × 7|16 × 6|13 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |50 psf|1 story—slab-on-grade|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |50 psf|1 story—with crawl space|14 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |50 psf|1 story—plus basement|18 × 6|13 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |50 psf|2 story—slab-on-grade|15 × 6|13 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |50 psf|2 story—with crawl space|17 × 6|13 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |50 psf|2 story—plus basement|21 × 7|15 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |50 psf|3 story—slab-on-grade|18 × 6|13 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6|12 × 6| |50

  • CWUIC § 2.1.3 High relevance — show source text

    2.1.3|Content|N||||||||| |104.2.1.4|Tests|N||||||||| |104.2.2|Alternative
    materials, design and
    methods|Y||1.11.2.4
    1.11.2.5||||||| |104.2.2.1|Approval authority|N||||||||| |104.2.2.2|Application and
    disposition|N||1.11.2.4
    1.11.2.5||||||| |104.2.2.3|Compliance with
    code intent|N||||||||| |104.2.2.4|Equivalency criteria|N||||||||| |104.2.2.5|Tests|N||||||||| |104.2.2.6|Reports|N||||||||| |104.2.2.6.1|Evaluation reports|N||||||||| |104.2.2.6.2|Other reports|N||||||||| |104.2.2.7|Peer review|N||||||||| |104.2.3|Modifications|N||||||||| |104.3|Applications and
    permits|Y||||||||| |104.4|Right of entry|N||||||||| |104.4.1|Warrant|N||||||||| |104.5|Identification|N||||||||| |104.6|Notices and orders|Y||||||||| |104.7|Official records|N||||||||| |104.7.1|Approvals|N||||||||| |104.7.2|Inspections|N||||||||| |104.7.3|Code alternatives
    and modifications|N||||||||| |104.7.4|Tests|N||||||||| |104.7.5|Fees|N||||||||| |104.8|Liability|Y||||||||| |104.8.1|Legal defense|Y||||||||| |104.9|Approved materials
    and equipment|N||||||||| |104.9.1|Material and
    equipment reuse|N||||||||| |104.10|Other agencies|N||||||||| |105|Permits|Y||||||||| |105.1|General|Y||||||||| |105.2|Permits required|Y||||||||| |105.3|Work exempt from
    permit|Y||||||||| |105.4|Permit application|Y||||||||| |105.4.1|Preliminary
    inspection|N||||||||| |105.4.2|Time limitation of
    application|N||||||||| |105.5|Permit approval|N||||||||| |105.6|Permit issuance|N||||||||| |105.6.1|Refusal to issue a
    permit|N||||||||| |105.7|Validity of permit|N||||||||| |105.8|Expiration|Y||105.5.1||||||| |105.9|Retention of permits|N|||||||||

    APPENDIX H-22 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE

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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,

  • CWUIC § 7.5 Medium relevance — show source text

    7.5|Fees|N||||||||| |104.8|Liability|Y||||||||| |104.8.1|Legal defense|Y||||||||| |104.9|Approved materials
    and equipment|N||||||||| |104.9.1|Material and
    equipment reuse|N||||||||| |104.10|Other agencies|N||||||||| |105|Permits|Y||||||||| |105.1|General|Y||||||||| |105.2|Permits required|Y||||||||| |105.3|Work exempt from
    permit|Y||||||||| |105.4|Permit application|Y||||||||| |105.4.1|Preliminary
    inspection|N||||||||| |105.4.2|Time limitation of
    application|N||||||||| |105.5|Permit approval|N||||||||| |105.6|Permit issuance|N||||||||| |105.6.1|Refusal to issue a
    permit|N||||||||| |105.7|Validity of permit|N||||||||| |105.8|Expiration|Y||105.5.1||||||| |105.9|Retention of permits|N|||||||||

    APPENDIX H-22 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE

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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 1 _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration
    105.10 Revocation of permits Y
    106 Construction
    documents
    Y
    106.1 General Y 107.1
    106.2 Information on plans
    and specifications
    Y
    106.3 Site plan Y
    106.4 Vegetation manage-
    ment_compliance_
    Y 701A.5
    106.5 Fire protection plan Y
    106.6 Other data and
    substantiation
    N
    106.7 Vicinity plan Y
    106.8 Retention of plans Y 1.11.3.5
    106.9 Examination of
    documents
    N
    106.
  • CWUIC § B101 Medium relevance — show source text

    SECTION B101—GENERAL

    B101.1 Scope. Vegetation management plans shall be submitted to the code official for review and approval as part of the plans required for a permit.

    B101.2 Plan content. Vegetation management plans shall describe all actions that will be taken to prevent a fire from being carried toward or away from the building. A vegetation management plan shall include the following information:

    1. A copy of the site plan.
    2. Methods and timetables for controlling, changing or modifying areas on the property. Elements of the plan shall include removal of slash, snags, vegetation that may grow into overhead electrical lines, other ground fuels, ladder fuels and dead trees, and the thinning of live trees.
    3. A plan for maintaining the proposed fuel-reduction measures.

    B101.3 Fuel modification. To be considered a fuel modification for purposes of this code, continuous maintenance of the clearance is required.

    2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE APPENDIX B-3

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    APPENDIX B-4 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE

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    CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE APPENDIX C – COMMUNITY WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE (WUI) FIRE HAZARD EVALUATION FRAMEWORK

    (Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)

    (Not adopted by the State Fire Marshal)

    Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
    CG
    SFM Col5 HCD Col7 Col8 DSA Col10 OSHPD Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 Col16 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC
    Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
    CG
    T-24 T-19* 1 2 1/AC AC SS 1 1R 2 3 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
    Adopt Entire Chapter
    Adopt Entire Chapter as
    amended (amended sections
    listed below)
    Adopt only those sections that
    are listed below
    [California Code of Regulations,
    Title 19, Division 1]
    Chapter / Section
  • CWUIC § 6-3 Medium relevance — show source text

    2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE 6-3

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    FIRE PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS

    602.3.2 Final fire protection plan. Final fire protection plan shall include items listed in Section 602.3.1 and the following: 1. A map identifying all proposed plants in the fuel modification zones with a legend that includes a symbol for each proposed plant species. The plan shall include specific information on each species proposed, including but not limited to: 1.1. The plant life-form;

    1.2. The scientific and common name; and

    1.3. The expected height and width for mature growth. 2. Identification of irrigated and nonirrigated zones. 3. Requirements for vegetation reduction around emergency access and evacuation routes. 4. Identification of points of access for equipment and personnel to maintain vegetation in common areas. 5. Legally binding statements regarding community responsibility for maintenance of fuel modification zones. 6. Legally binding statements to be included in covenants, conditions and restrictions regarding property owner responsibili- ties for vegetation maintenance.

    SECTION 603— VEGETATION PLAN

    603.1 General. Planting of vegetation for new landscaping shall be selected to reduce vegetation in proximity to a structure and to maintain vegetation as it matures.

    603.2 Application. All new plantings of vegetation in State Responsibility Area (SRA) and Local Responsibility Areas (LRA) designated as a Fire Hazard Severity Zone shall comply with Sections 603.3 through 603.4.2.1.

    603.3 Landscape plans. Landscape plans shall be provided when required by the code official. The landscape plan shall include devel- opment and maintenance requirements for the vegetation management zone adjacent to structures and roadways, and provide significant fire hazard reduction benefits for public and firefighting safety.

    603.3.1 Contents. Landscape plans shall contain the following: 1. Delineation of the 30-foot (9144 mm) and 100-foot (30 480 mm) fuel management zones from all structures. 2. Identification of existing vegetation to remain and proposed new vegetation. 3. Identification of irrigated areas. 4. A plant legend with both botanical and common names, and identification of all plant material symbols. 5. Identification of ground coverings within the 30-foot (9144 mm) zone.

    603.4 Vegetation. All new vegetation shall be fire-smart vegetation in accordance with this section.

    Exception: Trees classified as nonfire-smart vegetation complying with Section 603.4.2.1.

    To be considered fire-smart vegetation, vegetation must meet at least one of the following: 1. Be identified as fire-smart vegetation in an approved book, journal or listing from an approved organization. 2. Be identified as fire-smart vegetation by a licensed landscape architect with supporting justification. 3. Plants considered fire-smart vegetation and approved by the local enforcing agency.

  • CWUIC § 1.11. Medium relevance — show source text
    • The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 19, Division 1 provisions that are found in the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code are a reprint from the current CCR, Title 19, Division 1 text for the code user’s convenience only. The scope, applicability and appeals procedures of CCR, Title 19, Division I remain the same. The state agency does not adopt sections identified by the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.

    The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 14, Division 1.5 provisions that are found in the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code are not listed in the Matrix Adoption Tables as they are not within the State Fire Marshal’s authority to adopt. These provisions are a reprint from the current CCR, Title 14, Division 1.5 text for the code user’s convenience only and are identified in the body of the code by square brackets containing references to applicable Title 14 sections.

    2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE APPENDIX B-1

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    APPENDIX B-2 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE

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    B VEGETATION MANAGEMENT PLAN

    The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance.

    User notes:

    About this appendix: Appendix B, while not part of the code, can become part of the code when specifically included in the adopting ordinance. Its purpose is to provide criteria for submitting vegetation management plans, specifying their content and establishing a criterion for considering vegetation management as being a fuel modification.

    SECTION B101—GENERAL

    B101.1 Scope. Vegetation management plans shall be submitted to the code official for review and approval as part of the plans required for a permit.

    B101.2 Plan content. Vegetation management plans shall describe all actions that will be taken to prevent a fire from being carried toward or away from the building. A vegetation management plan shall include the following information:

    1. A copy of the site plan.
    2. Methods and timetables for controlling, changing or modifying areas on the property. Elements of the plan shall include removal of slash, snags, vegetation that may grow into overhead electrical lines, other ground fuels, ladder fuels and dead trees, and the thinning of live trees.
    3. A plan for maintaining the proposed fuel-reduction measures.

    B101.3 Fuel modification. To be considered a fuel modification for purposes of this code, continuous maintenance of the clearance is required.

    2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE APPENDIX B-3

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    APPENDIX B-4 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE

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    CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE APPENDIX C – COMMUNITY WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE (WUI) FIRE HAZARD EVALUATION FRAMEWORK

  • CWUIC § 603.4.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    Trees 603.4.2

    2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE INDEX-1

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    INDEX

    Undeveloped Ridgeline 202 Unenclosed Accessory Structure 202

    Vegetation Control Appendix A, A102 Vegetation management compliance 106.4 Vegetation Management Plan Appendix B Vents 504.10

    Vertical Curve 202

    Water Supply Adequate water supply 404.5 Applicability 402 Draft sites 404.3 Hydrants 404.4 Identification 404.8

    Obstructions 404.7 Reliability 404.10 Required water supply 404.2 Subdivisions 402.1 Testing and maintenance 404.9 Water sources 404.2

    Wildfire 202

    Wildland 202

    Wildland-Urban Interface Area 202

    Wildland-Urban Interface Area Designations 302 Declaration 302.1

    Mapping 302.2 Review 302.3

    INDEX-2 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE

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    HISTORY NOTE APPENDIX

    2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 7

    HISTORY:

    1. (SFM 08/24)—Adoption by reference of the 2024 International Wildland-Urban Interface Code with necessary amendments relocated from the California Building Code, California Residential Code and California Fire Code to become the 2025 Califor- nia Wildland-Urban Interface Code . Approved by the California Building Standards Commission on February 26, 2025, filed with Secretary of State on March 7, 2025, and effective on January 1, 2026.

    2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE HIST-1

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    HIST-2 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE

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  • CWUIC § 1.11. Medium relevance — show source text

    APPENDIX B – VEGETATION MANAGEMENT PLAN

    (Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)

    (Not adopted by the State Fire Marshal)

    Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
    CG
    SFM Col5 HCD Col7 Col8 DSA Col10 OSHPD Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 Col16 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC
    Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
    CG
    T-24 T-19* 1 2 1/AC AC SS 1 1R 2 3 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
    Adopt Entire Chapter
    Adopt Entire Chapter as
    amended (amended sections
    listed below)
    Adopt only those sections that
    are listed below
    [California Code of Regulations,
    Title 19, Division 1]
    Chapter / Section
    • The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 19, Division 1 provisions that are found in the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code are a reprint from the current CCR, Title 19, Division 1 text for the code user’s convenience only. The scope, applicability and appeals procedures of CCR, Title 19, Division I remain the same. The state agency does not adopt sections identified by the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.

    The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 14, Division 1.5 provisions that are found in the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code are not listed in the Matrix Adoption Tables as they are not within the State Fire Marshal’s authority to adopt. These provisions are a reprint from the current CCR, Title 14, Division 1.5 text for the code user’s convenience only and are identified in the body of the code by square brackets containing references to applicable Title 14 sections.

    2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE APPENDIX B-1

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    APPENDIX B-2 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE

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    B VEGETATION MANAGEMENT PLAN

    The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance.

    User notes:

  • CWUIC § 102.4 Medium relevance — show source text

    Chapter 5 Special Building Construction Regulations.

    The regulations in Chapter 5 establish minimum standards for the location, design and construction of buildings and structures based on construction within a Fire Hazard Severity Zone or a Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Area.

    The construction provisions of Chapter 5 are intended to supplement the requirements of the California Building Code and Califor- nia Residential Code and address mitigation of the unique hazards posed to buildings by wildfire and to reduce the hazards of building fires spreading to wildland fuels. This is accomplished by requiring ignition-resistant construction materials.

    Chapter 6 Fire Protection Requirements.

    Chapter 6 contains additional requirements for development and construction in Local Responsibility Areas (LRA) designated as Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones and areas designated by the State Fire Marshal as State Responsibility Areas (SRA). While many of these provisions are found in Title 14 and Title 19 of the California Code of Regulations, they are replicated here for the code user. The local jurisdiction has the authority to apply the same regulations to LRA when the regulations are adopted by local ordinance.

    The requirements in this chapter reference the process for adoption of Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the LRA; criteria for evaluating existing subdivisions that are at significant fire risk and are without an adequate secondary egress; and criteria for fire safety provisions required in the Safety Element of a city or county General Plan.

    2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE xi

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    The chapter includes mitigation strategies to reduce the hazards of fire originating within a structure spreading to wildland and fire originating in wildland spreading to structures.

    Chapter 7 Referenced Standards.

    Chapter 7 lists all of the product and installation standards and codes that are referenced throughout Chapters 1 through 6 and includes identification of the promulgators and the section numbers in which the standards and codes are referenced. As stated in Section 102.4, these standards and codes become an enforceable part of the code (to the prescribed extent of the reference) as if printed in the body of the code.

    Appendix A General Requirements.

    Appendix A, while not part of the code, can become part of the code when specifically included in the adopting ordinance. Its purpose is to provide fire-protection measures supplemental to those found in Chapter 6 to reduce the threat of wildfire in a wildland-urban interface area and improve the capability for controlling such fires. This appendix includes detailed requirements for vegetation control; the code official’s authority to close wildland-interface areas in times of high fire danger; control of fires, fireworks usage and other sources of ignition; storage of hazardous materials and combustibles; bans on the dumping of waste materials and ashes and coals in wildlandurban interface areas; protection of pumps and water supplies; and limits on temporary uses within the wildland-urban interface area.

    Appendix B Vegetation Management Plan.

    Appendix B, while not part of the code, can become part of the code when specifically included in the adopting ordinance. Its purpose is to provide criteria for submitting vegetation management plans, specifying their content and establishing a criterion for considering vegetation management as being a fuel modification.

    Appendix C Community Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Fire Hazard Evaluation Framework.

  • CWUIC § 5-3 Medium relevance — show source text

    502 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-3

    503 Ignition-Resistant Construction and Material. . . . . .5-3

    504 Ignition-Resistant Construction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-4

    505 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-9

    506 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-9

    507 Replacement or Repair of Roof Coverings. . . . . . . . .5-9

    CHAPTER 6 FIRE PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS. . . . . . .6-3

    601 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3

    602 Fire Protection Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3

    603 Vegetation Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4

    604 Maintenance of Defensible Space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5

    605 Spark Arrestors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5

    606 Liquefied Petroleum Gas Installations . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5

    607 Storage of Firewood and Combustible Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5

    608 Building Siting and Setbacks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5

    609 Ridgelines, Fuel Breaks and Greenbelts . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6

    610 Fire Safe Development Regulations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7

    611 Subdivision Review Survey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7

    612 General Plan Safety Element . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7

    CHAPTER 7 REFERENCED STANDARDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-3

    APPENDIX A GENERAL REQUIREMENTS . . . . APPENDIX A-3

    A101 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A-3

    A102 Vegetation Control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A-3

Frequently asked questions

Who decides which inspection or certification method I must use?

The enforcing agency decides which method(s) it will accept for vegetation compliance; the code lists permitted options in § A106.4, but the agency has discretion to require specific documentation.

Is an owner’s signed affidavit always acceptable?

No. Property owner certification is listed as an allowed option in § A106.4, but it is only acceptable if the enforcing agency authorizes it. Always confirm with the local agency.

Do I always have to use Appendix B’s checklist?

Appendix B is informational and is mandatory only when adopted by the local ordinance; however § B101.1 still requires a vegetation management plan where the code/applicable local rules require it.

What must a vegetation plan contain?

At minimum (per § B101.2) a vegetation plan should include a site plan, methods and timetables for vegetation control (removal of slash, snags, ladder fuels, dead trees, thinning), and a maintenance plan.

When is the property required to be compliant?

The property must be in compliance with the vegetation management requirements prior to building permit final approval, per § A106.4.

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