This presentation will explore the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Code adopted by the City of Austin and implemented in 2021. We will examine the factors that led to its adoption, including the region's wildfire history and local environmental conditions in Central Texas.
The presentation will define the Wildland-Urban Interface and explain how to determine if a structure falls within the WUI within Austin. We'll discuss the Austin Fire Department's emphasis on ignition-resistant construction, which is a key component of the code.
We'll provide an overview of the plan review and inspection process required for structures within the WUI. Additionally, we'll address how this code may impact structural engineers when creating designs and plans within the City of Austin, including requirements for building materials and construction methods.
By attending this presentation, structural engineers and other professionals will gain valuable insights into the requirements and how they can adapt their practices to comply with the WUI code in Austin.
Beth Culver, AIA, CBO, PMP, is the lead Wildland-Urban Interface Plans Examiner for the Austin Fire Department. With over 15 years of experience in architecture, she transitioned to government roles, including Assistant Director for the Development Services Department and serving as the City of Austin’s Building Official for over 3 years. Beth holds a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and is a registered architect in Texas and Colorado. She is also a Certified Building Official and Project Management Professional. Beth is involved in professional organizations such as American Institute of Architects (AIA), Project Management Institute (PMI) and Texas Fire Protection Association (TFPA). She serves on the ICC Fire Code Interpretation Committee and is a founding member of ICC chapter of Women in Code Enforcement and Development of Texas.
