Wildfire Zones: Phoenix vs Tempe
How do wildfire zones rules compare between Phoenix, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Tempe 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 →Tempe, AZ
Maricopa County
Tempe is a fully urbanized city without formally designated wildland-urban interface (WUI) zones. The primary fire risks are structural fires and vegetation fires on vacant desert parcels, particularly near Papago Park and the Salt River bottom. The city's fire code follows the International Fire Code. Arizona's Firewise USA program encourages defensible space even in urban areas.
View full Tempe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Phoenix | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Fire Code | 2024 IFC with Phoenix amendments | International Fire Code as adopted |
| 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 | - |
| WUI Status | - | No formal wildland-urban interface zones |
| Terrain | - | Fully urbanized, minimal wildfire risk |
| Risk Areas | - | Papago Park, Salt River bottom, vacant parcels |
| Department | - | Professional urban fire department |
| State Program | - | Arizona Firewise USA |
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.
Tempe FAQ
Is Tempe in a wildfire zone?
No. Tempe is a fully urbanized city without formal wildfire zones. The main fire risks are structural fires and occasional vegetation fires near desert edges.
Do I need fire-resistant building materials in Tempe?
No WUI-specific building codes apply. Standard International Fire Code provisions govern all construction in Tempe.
Is there fire risk near Papago Park?
Vegetation fires can occur in desert areas near Papago Park and the Salt River bottom. Properties nearby should maintain defensible space.
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