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Mayfield adopts wildland-urban-interface building standards after county fire briefing
Summary
The Mayfield Town Council unanimously adopted Ordinance 2025-7 to incorporate Utah’s WUI building standards into local code and designate the local fire authority as enforcement jurisdiction following a presentation by Gunnison Valley Fire Department staff.
Mayfield’s council formalized Wildland-Urban-Interface (WUI) building standards at its Dec. 10 meeting when it adopted Mayfield Town Ordinance 2025-7. The ordinance implements state WUI provisions and amends the town code so construction in designated WUI areas meets the state-adopted WUI building standard.
Zac Jensen of the Gunnison Valley Fire Department explained the law’s intent and practical effect: “What it’s designed to do is force counties and municipalities that have homes in the urban interface to try and do more to help prevent catastrophic fire,” Jensen said, describing inspections to evaluate defensible space and construction measures to reduce wildfire risk. Jensen told the council that joining the WUI framework also helps towns qualify for state support after large incidents; he said participation helps avoid massive local costs if a large fire occurs inside town limits.
The ordinance text, read into the record, adopts the state-defined WUI building standard and directs code amendments to titles governing health, safety and fire protection. It names the local fire authority (Johnson Valley Fire Chief or designee, per the ordinance language) as the authority having jurisdiction to review plans, issue compliance requirements and conduct inspections.
Council members asked about code cross-references and the administrative steps to codify the WUI standard into Mayfield’s municipal code; staff agreed to finalize related amendments to Town Code Titles 5 and 15. The ordinance was approved by roll call/voice vote.
What’s next: The town will amend its code language to reflect WUI adoption and coordinate inspections and enforcement with the designated fire authority.
