What is the International Wildland Urban Interface Code and why should it matter to me?

The International Wildland Urban Interface Code was established by the International Code Council as an overlay to the International Building Code and International Residential Code. Jurisdictions adopt the code as an overlay when development exists in wildland areas where wildfire threats are possible. The IWUIC contains provisions that address ignition-resistant and fire-resistant construction, proximity to water, creating defensible space (i.e., clearing vegetation), and other factors that make a structure less susceptible to fire and potentially able to survive a wildfire event.

Knowing about and understanding the IWUIC is important for several reasons. First, in 26 states, the IWUIC has been adopted either across the state or in some jurisdictions. Second, adoption is expected to expand — reflecting the steady increase in wildfire events over the last 30 years. Eventually, most designers and contractors will be expected to design and build a structure in an area governed by the IWUIC. What to learn more? Read The International Wildland-Urban Interface Code: What it Contains and Why it’s Important.

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