San Antonio, TX Fire Regulations: Wildfire Zones (2026)
Key Facts
- Code Section
- Chapter 11, Art. III (2021 IFC adoption); Ord. 2018-11-03-0860
- Risk Areas
- NW San Antonio near Camp Bullis and Hill Country
- Fuel Reduction
- Interlocal agreement with TX A&M Forest Service
- Fire Code
- 2021 International Fire Code with local amendments
- Effective
- 2024 amendments effective May 1, 2025
Summary
San Antonio's northwest areas near Camp Bullis and the Hill Country contain wildland-urban interface zones with elevated wildfire risk. The City Manager was authorized under a 2016 ordinance (Ordinance 2018-11-03-0860) to execute interlocal agreements with the Texas A&M Forest Service for fuel reduction services. The International Fire Code as adopted in Chapter 11, Article III applies to brush management and defensible space.
(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.
Full Breakdown
San Antonio addresses wildfire risk through hazard zone mapping and defensible space requirements. Fire-resistant roofing and siding materials may be required for new construction. Vegetation management includes removing dead plants, trimming tree branches away from structures, and maintaining spacing between shrubs. Ember-resistant vents and enclosed eaves may be required. Local fire departments conduct inspections in high-risk areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is San Antonio at risk for wildfires?
What fire code applies in San Antonio?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Antonio
Texas rules heatmap·Compare San Antonio to another location·View the Texas fire regulations overview
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Wildfire Zones in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Bexar County handle wildfire zones.