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El Paso, TX Fire Regulations: Wildfire Zones (2026)

Light Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified April 2026

Key Facts

WUI Code
IFC Chapter 49 (2021 edition)
Roof Class
Class A required
Vents
Ember-resistant (1/8 inch mesh)
Defensible Space
30 ft (100 ft during red flag)
Risk Areas
Franklin Mountains, Castner Range

Summary

El Paso's Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) zones include the Franklin Mountains interface, Scenic Drive, and desert-edge neighborhoods on the Westside and Northeast.

Sec. 352.081. REGULATION OF OUTDOOR BURNING. (a) In this section, "drought conditions" means the existence of a long-term deficit of moisture creating atypically severe conditions with increased wildfire occurrence as defined by the Texas Forest Service through the use of the Keetch-Byram Drought Index or, when that index is not available, through the use of a comparable measurement that takes into consideration the burning index, spread component, or ignition component for the particular area.(b) On the request of the commissioners court of a county, the Texas Forest Service shall determine whether drought conditions exist in all or part of the county.

Source: El Paso City CodeView official code

Full Breakdown

The El Paso Fire Marshal applies International Fire Code Chapter 49 to properties in WUI zones. New and renovated structures must use Class A roofing, ember-resistant vents, enclosed soffits, and noncombustible materials within five feet of the foundation. Landscape rules require native and fire-resistant plants and prohibit ornamental grasses under eaves. The Franklin Mountains, Castner Range, and northeast slopes are primary wildfire risk areas. El Paso experiences high winds and dry conditions from spring through early summer that create extreme fire behavior. Homeowners in these zones should maintain defensible space year-round.

Violations & Fines

Code violations: Class C misdemeanor, $100 to $500 first offense; stop-work orders on construction not meeting WUI standards. Civil liability may apply if a violation contributes to wildfire spread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my El Paso home in a wildfire zone?
If your property abuts Franklin Mountains State Park, Castner Range, or desert open space on the Westside or Northeast, it is likely in a WUI zone subject to IFC Chapter 49.
Do I need special construction materials in El Paso WUI zones?
Yes. New roofs must be Class A, vents ember-resistant, and the first five feet around the foundation must be noncombustible.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in El Paso

Noise Ordinances: Construction HoursSome RestrictionsFire Pits & Backyard FiresLight RestrictionsParking Rules: RV & Boat ParkingSome RestrictionsPropane StorageSome RestrictionsFireworksHeavy RestrictionsOutdoor BurningHeavy RestrictionsParking Rules: Driveway RulesSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Fence Permit RequirementsLight RestrictionsFence Regulations: Material RestrictionsSignificant RestrictionsFence Regulations: Retaining WallsSome Restrictions

All El Paso rules

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