1.  What is the WUI Code?

The WUI Code is a set of safety regulations adopted by Redmond Fire & Rescue to help protect homes and property where neighborhoods meet or intermingle with wildland vegetation.

RFR Wildland-Urban Interface Code (WUI)

2.  Why do we need a WUI Code?

The code exists to reduce the risk of wildfires spreading into neighborhoods, protect lives and property, and support firefighter safety during wildfire events.

3.  Who would the WUI Code apply to?

It applies to all existing and new buildings, structures, and undeveloped lots located within the designated Wildland-Urban Interface areas served by Redmond Fire & Rescue. Existing residential properties become enforceable under this code on October 1, 2028.

4. How is the WUI area determined?

WUI boundaries are established using the Greater Redmond Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) and updated at least every five years. These areas are considered high-risk for wildfire. See WUI Code pages 13 and 14.

5.  What are my responsibilities as a homeowner?

Homeowners must maintain:

• A 5-foot completely non-combustible zone around their home
• Defensible space by removing dead vegetation and ladder fuels
• Safe tree spacing and pruning
• Clear and visible address signage

6.  What is "defensible space"?

Defensible space is an area around your home where you remove or reduce vegetation and combustible materials to slow wildfire spread and create a safer zone for firefighters. The code requires different managment zones from 0-5 feet, 5-30 feet, and 30-100+ feet. See WUI Code page 26.

7.  What do I need to remove within 5 feet of my home:

The first 5 feet must be entirely non-combustible. This means:

• No bark dust, mulch, shrubs, firewood, or combustible fencing touching the house
• Replace combustible fencing with a 5-foot non-combustible break

Existing wooden fences will not have to be upgraded unless the fence is replaced.

8.  Do I have to change my landscaping?

Possibly. New plantings within 30 feet of a home must come from the approved fire-resistant vegetation list in Appendix C. Some groundcovers and mulches are not allowed within the immediate zone.

9.  What about my driveway or access road?

Driveways must allow fire engines to reach your home. Requirements include:

• Minimum 12-foot clear width
• Driveway turnouts or turnarounds depending on length
• A posted, visible address sign

Existing driveways are not required to be changed unless a new building is constructed on the lot.

10.  Will I need to upgrade my water supply?

New homes or subdivisions may require their own water sources, hydrants, or draft sites to ensure firefighters have adequate water for fire suppression. Exisitng homes may need clear access to water sources. This would only impact those homes located within the rural area.

How much will this cost me as a homeowner?

The WUI Code does not charge residents a fee simply for living in a Wildland-Urban Interface area. However, homeowners may have costs related to making their property compliant with safety requirements. Costs vary based on lot size, vegetation density, terrain difficulty, and proximity to the home. Request a free defensible space assessment of your property to understand what areas might need work.

Here's what to expect, based on the code:

1.  Vegetation and Defensible Space Work

You may need to:

• Remove bark mulch and other combustibles within 5 feet of your home
• Thin or prune trees and shrubs
• Clear dead vegetation, needles, and debris

These tasks range from no-cost DIY work to hiring a landscaper, depending on property size and your abilities.

2.  Updating Address Signs

Homes must have compliant green reflective address signs in the rural areas. If yours does not meet the standard, you may need to purchase one - usually $20-$40 depending on the source.

3.  Driveway or Access Improvements (if required)

If your driveway is too narrow, too steep, or lacks turnarounds, you may need upgrades. Costs depend heavily on driveway length and work needed (grading, widening, adding gravel). The code requires:

• 12-foot minimum width
• Adequate turning radius
• Proper surface and load capacity

These are not needed for every property - only those whose current access does not meet standards. Only required if adding a new structure to your property.

4. Landscaping Changes Near the Home

If you replace non-compliant vegetation (mulch, shrubs in the 0-5 ft zone), costs depend on your plant choice. Fire-resistant plants are often comparable to regular landscaping costs. All new plants within 30 feet must come from the approved fire-resistant plant list.

5.  Chimney Spark Arrestors (if applicable)

If you use a wood-burning fireplace and don't already have a compliant spark arrestor, installing one is generally inexpensive. The code requires specific mesh size and construction.

6.  Optional: Hiring Professionals

Some residents may choose to hire: 

• Tree services
• Landscape contractors
• Driveway/road improvement contractors

These are not required but may be helpful depending on your property's needs.