Austin considering changes to code that protects homes against wildfire

AUSTIN (KXAN) -- Austin Firefighters Association President Chief Bob Nicks didn't mince words when we asked him whether Austin could experience catastrophic fires similar to what we saw in Los Angeles earlier this year.

"When we do have the high winds, we have the exact same conditions we're seeing in LA," Nicks told KXAN previously.

So how do we avoid it? Nicks had several suggestions, including changes to Austin's Wildland Urban Interface Code (WUIC). That's a set of rules aimed at helping prevent wildfires from impacting homes in our city.

"It operates off of a map that says these are zones we should be more cautious around and implements a better building code for those individual locations," Austin City Council Member Paige Ellis said.

The city of Austin is looking at changes to that code right now, to make Austin more fire resistant and align with new wildfire research.

"Some of the different issues that might be addressed, we definitely want to look at building materials and how to make sure our homes and other structures are hearty and preventing wildfire but there could also be some discussions about vegetation or how we properly manage some of the open spaces that are in nearby neighborhoods," Ellis said.

Next week, Austin City Council will take the first steps in moving forward on adjustments to that plan by setting a public hearing. A final vote is expected in the next few months.

KXAN asked the fire department how much the changes may cost builders. While they couldn't tell us exactly, they did say: "The proximity zone (distance of wildland) will affect the cost. The code provides options for materials so the choice of materials will also impact the cost.  In summary, Zone A and Zone B have more of a chance to see a cost increase.  Zone C may be the same cost or potentially less."

You can find more information on the proposed changes here.