Fire Protection Criteria Manual Update - Wildland-Urban Interface Code
Fire Protection Criteria Manual Update - Wildland-Urban Interface Code
Austin Fire is seeking feedback on proposed updates to the Fire Protection Criteria Manual. These changes would align the content of the Fire Protection Criteria Manual and 2024 International Wildland-Urban Interface Code with local amendments (WUI Code). If adopted, the changes are expected to take effect in fall of 2026.
Step 1
Overview
The Fire Protection Criteria Manual (FPCM) is a technical guide used by the City of Austin. It is referenced in the Austin Land Development Code. The FPCM outlines how to follow the Fire and WUI Codes. It includes rules, examples, and local interpretations.
The proposed version of the FPCM has been shaped by public input. This page now includes the final proposed draft and summary of changes based on additional public feedback received since November 24, 2025.
It includes guidelines about how the WUI map will be kept up to date. It outlines permit and development submission requirements. It describes rules for fire and wildfire truck access. It also provides options for sites that cannot meet the code. In addition it answers common questions about building materials and design.
Proposed Update
If adopted, the proposed updates to the FPCM will impact:
- Section 1: Introduction and Table of Contents
- Section 4: Wildland-Urban Interface
- Section 7: 7.2.12: WUI Code Inspection Criteria
See the summary of changes made in response to public feedback since November 24, 2025.
Get Involved
The proposed changes have been updated based on public feedback received since November 24, 2025.
Share additional feedback on the proposed changes at the bottom of this page before July 13, 2026.
WUI Code Background
In April 2025, the City of Austin adopted the updated 2024 International Wildland-Urban Interface Code with local amendments (WUI Code). This updated WUI Code began on July 10, 2025, replacing the 2015 version that started on January 1, 2021. Public feedback received during the code adoption process shaped the proposed changes.
Using the latest wildfire science, the 2024 WUI Code supports wildfire response and safety planning. It created clear zones around wildland areas to guide building rules (i.e. Proximity Zones). It also improved the WUI map to show at-risk areas and made current interpretations official.
Frequently Asked Questions
Updating the criteria manual is necessary to reflect changes to the 2024 WUI Code, current processes, and current interpretations. Together, the updated WUI Code and this manual help make homes safer from wildfires and give people clear steps the follow.
Austin Fire staff will use the public input collected during this process to update the proposed changes. The Technical Advisory Review Panel (TARP) postponed covering this topic at the January meeting. They asked to have one meeting at the end of the review period instead.
From January through June, TARP members took part in a working group and shared feedback. Their feedback led to the revisions being presented in June and July for public comment.
Yes, more changes will be proposed throughout 2026 for the remaining sections of the Fire Protection Criteria Manual. These updates will review and revise each section of the manual.
Austin Fire is scheduled to present the proposed changes to the Technical Advisory Review Panel on the following timeline:
June 2026 – Section 1: Introduction and Section 6: Fire Protection Systems
July 2026 – Section 4: Wildland Urban Interface Code
September 2026 – Section 2: Site Plans, Section 3: Building Plans, and Section 5: Hazardous Materials
December 2026 – Section 7: Inspections
Who’s Listening?
Austin Fire
Engineering and Plan Review - WUI Team