Brush Clearance: Scottsdale vs Tempe
How do brush clearance rules compare between Scottsdale, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Tempe has fewer restrictions than Scottsdale.
Scottsdale, AZ
Maricopa County
Scottsdale requires defensible space around structures to mitigate wildfire risk, particularly in the McDowell Mountain area and ESLO desert hillside zones. The Scottsdale Fire Department enforces fire prevention measures under the International Fire Code as adopted with local amendments (Revised Code Chapter 36).
View full Scottsdale rules →Tempe, AZ
Maricopa County
Tempe's fire prevention code (Chapter 14) requires property owners to maintain vegetation and remove fire hazards. The city adopted the International Fire Code. Dry brush, dead vegetation, and accumulated debris must be cleared. Tempe's urban setting reduces wildfire risk, but the Sonoran Desert climate creates seasonal fire hazards from dried vegetation during the pre-monsoon dry season (April-June).
View full Tempe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Scottsdale | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Code | Scottsdale Revised Code Chapter 36; IFC 2021 with amendments | - |
| High-Risk Areas | McDowell Mountain area, desert hillside zones | - |
| Fire Danger Season | May-July (pre-monsoon extreme heat/low humidity) | - |
| Burn Bans | Maricopa County declares during high fire danger | - |
| Enforcement | Fire Dept. Community Risk Reduction Division | Tempe Fire Department and Code Compliance |
| City Code | - | Chapter 14 (Fire Prevention and Protection) |
| Fire Code | - | International Fire Code as adopted |
| Dry Season | - | April-June highest fire risk |
| Common Hazard | - | Dead palm fronds, dried native vegetation |
| Mutual Aid | - | Maricopa County mutual aid system |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Scottsdale FAQ
Does Scottsdale require defensible space around homes?
Yes, particularly in wildfire-prone areas near the McDowell Mountains and in desert hillside zones. The Fire Department enforces vegetation management requirements under the adopted fire code.
When is fire danger highest in Scottsdale?
The pre-monsoon season (May through July) is the highest fire danger period, with extreme heat exceeding 100°F and very low humidity. Maricopa County may declare burn bans during this period.
Who do I contact about fire prevention in Scottsdale?
The Scottsdale Fire Department Community Risk Reduction Division handles fire prevention inspections and education. Contact them at 480-312-1855.
Tempe FAQ
Do I need to clear brush around my Tempe home?
Yes. Property owners must remove dead vegetation, dried brush, and combustible debris. Dead palm fronds are a common fire hazard that should be removed.
When is the highest fire risk in Tempe?
The pre-monsoon dry season (April-June) is the highest fire risk period. Vegetation dries out and becomes combustible.
Who enforces vegetation clearance?
The Tempe Fire Department and Code Compliance enforce fire prevention and vegetation management requirements.
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