Wildfire Zones: Phoenix vs Surprise
How do wildfire zones rules compare between Phoenix, AZ and Surprise, AZ?
Surprise has fewer restrictions than Phoenix.
Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
Phoenix adopts the International Fire Code (2024 edition with local amendments) under Chapter 15. While the urban core has low wildfire risk, northern mountain preserve areas have elevated risk. The Arizona DFFM evaluates communities at risk, and Phoenix requires defensible space and fire-resistant construction in hazard areas.
View full Phoenix rules →Surprise, AZ
Maricopa County
Surprise is located in the Sonoran Desert with relatively low wildfire risk compared to forested areas. The city adopts the International Fire Code with local amendments. Properties near the White Tank Mountains regional park may have additional defensible space considerations.
View full Surprise rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Phoenix | Surprise |
|---|---|---|
| Fire Code | 2024 IFC with Phoenix amendments | International Fire Code with amendments |
| Code Chapter | Phoenix City Code Chapter 15 | - |
| High-Risk Areas | Northern mountain preserve areas | - |
| Defensible Space | 0-5 ft, 5-30 ft, 30-100 ft zones | - |
| Assessment | AZ WRAP wildfire risk portal | - |
| Risk Level | - | Low to moderate (desert terrain) |
| Adjacent Wildland | - | White Tank Mountains |
| Surprise Fire | - | (623) 222-4810 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Phoenix FAQ
Is Phoenix at risk for wildfires?
The urban core has low wildfire risk, but properties near the northern mountain preserves (such as areas near the Phoenix Mountains, South Mountain, and North Mountain) have elevated risk. The Arizona Wildfire Risk Assessment Portal can identify your property's risk level.
What fire prevention measures are required?
Phoenix follows the 2024 International Fire Code. Properties in fire-prone areas should maintain defensible space in three zones: Immediate (0-5 ft), Intermediate (5-30 ft), and Extended (30-100 ft). Fire-resistant construction materials including Class A roofing are recommended.
Surprise FAQ
Is Surprise in a wildfire zone?
Most of Surprise has low wildfire risk due to flat desert terrain. Properties near White Tank Mountains or undeveloped desert may have moderate risk during dry, windy conditions.
Do I need fire-resistant building materials?
Properties in areas with identified wildfire exposure must use fire-resistant construction materials per the adopted fire code.
Who handles wildfire concerns in Surprise?
Surprise Fire-Medical Department at (623) 222-4810 handles local fire prevention. Maricopa County manages wildland fire response in regional parks.
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