County staff to research adopting wildfire mitigation code (Section R327) and report July 1

Wallowa County Building Codes Administrator Cierra Radford told the Board of Commissioners on June 17 that the county should adopt Section R327 (Wildfire Hazard Mitigation) of the 2023 Oregon Residential Specialty Code so the Planning Department can ensure new residential construction complies with wildfire-related building standards.

Radford said most wildfire hazard mitigation provisions "pertain to building materials and would have a minimal impact on construction costs." She advised that the county needs to follow the formal adoption process and said she will research the required steps and report back to the board at its July 1 meeting.

Chris Paul of the Oregon State Fire Marshal's Office urged the board to prioritize clear communication with the community about the proposed adoption and what it would mean for homeowners and builders. "Clear communication with the community" was recommended so residents understand the requirements and the likely limited cost implications, Paul said.

The discussion did not include a formal vote to adopt the code; instead, the board asked staff to return with a recommended process and any necessary materials for a future decision. The board has scheduled follow-up on July 1.