Committee adopts updated wildland‑urban interface code and mapping standard; cities may petition for adjustments

Representative T. Peterson presented a second substitute to HB41 to adopt the 2024 Wisconsin/International Wildland‑Urban Interface (WUI) code as the updated Utah standard for areas with a Smooth Structure Exposure Score (SES) of 5 or higher on the Utah Wildfire Risk Explorer map. The substitute removed a sprinkler requirement from the international code and added a petition process allowing cities and counties to request adjustments from Forestry, Fire and State Lands (FFSL).

Sponsor and fire officials said the updated code reflects lessons from recent catastrophic wildfires and improves defensible‑space and building practices in high‑risk WUI areas. Chief Clint Smith of Draper City and the Utah State Fire Chiefs Association supported passage; the League of Cities and Towns requested predictability for municipal mapping and the ability to locally define WUI areas.

Representative Peterson emphasized a collaborative stakeholder process and included a later adoption date to give local governments time to engage. The committee adopted the second substitute and recommended HB41 favorably; roll call showed one 'no' vote (Representative Kyle). The substitute includes a path for local governments to petition FFSL to amend maps if they have credible evidence for adjustments.