Fire-Resistant Construction

A set of building practices and materials designed to reduce the vulnerability of structures to ignition and damage from wildfires. Fire-resistant construction aims to improve the ability of buildings to withstand the heat, flames, and embers produced by wildfires, ultimately protecting lives and property. Key elements of fire-resistant construction include using fire-resistant materials for roofs, siding, windows, and decks; designing structures with features that minimize the accumulation of combustible debris; and incorporating fire-resistant landscaping and defensible space around the structure. In legal disputes related to wildfires, such as the Calf Canyon/Hermit’s Peak Fire, issues may arise concerning the implementation and effectiveness of fire-resistant construction, the responsibility of property owners and builders in adhering to fire-resistant building practices, and the potential impact of these measures on the outcome of a wildfire event.