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.
San Antonio addresses wildfire risk through hazard zone mapping and defensible space requirements. Properties in designated wildfire hazard areas must maintain cleared zones around structures, typically 30 feet of lean/clean zone and 100 feet of reduced fuel zone. 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.
Defensible space violations: fines $100 to $1,500. Non-compliant construction: required upgrades. Insurance companies may decline coverage in high-risk zones without compliance.
San Antonio, TX
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Bexar County.
See how other cities in Bexar County handle wildfire zones.
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