Vernal adopts 2006 Utah Wildland-Urban Interface Code with revised map

Assistant City Manager Braeden Christofferson presented a revised Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) map and explained the city’s approach to narrowing previously proposed areas. Staff said the revised map removed agricultural fields and vegetation not directly pertinent to wildfire risk and that no areas within Vernal are designated as "high risk" on the state’s separate map; the city-designated areas are "moderate risk." Christofferson said properties within designated areas would generally need to maintain about 30 feet of defensible space around structures, while existing homes would not be required to replace roofs or retrofit materials. "He explained that the Council had previously reviewed a draft map and expressed concern that the highlighted areas were overly expansive. In response, Braeden worked with ... to recalibrate and significantly reduce the designated areas," the transcript states.

Jeremy Raymond said staff removed agricultural fields and carefully reevaluated residential areas after on-site review; Fire District representative Corey Auger said the Fire District can provide free home assessments and mitigation assistance. Councilmember Robin O'Driscoll moved to approve Ordinance 2026-02 adopting the 2006 Utah Wildland-Urban Interface Code under Utah Code § 15A-2-103; Councilmember Ted Munford seconded and the motion passed unanimously. Staff noted the map will be reviewed at least every three years as required by state code.