Recent years have seen British Columbia’s wildfires grow in frequency and intensity, posing a threat to communities like Squamish and all those situated at the edge of forested lands.
Builders and developers play a critical role in shaping the resilience of communities in the face of wildfire risks. FireSmart principles – once seen as optional – have now become a central component of responsible construction practices. The Wildlife Development Permit Area (DPA) regulations introduced by the district of Squamish highlight the importance of aligning building practices with wildfire mitigation.
What is FireSmart?
A program developed by FireSmart Canada, FireSmart has been adopted throughout British Columbia. Its goal is to help homeowners and communities reduce the risk of damage from wildfire by promoting practical steps to reduce vulnerability of structures to embers, heat, and flames.
The municipality of Squamish is working actively toward becoming a certified FireSmart community. Programs like free wildlife mitigation home assessments, community chipper days, and rebates for residents are being implemented, as the district now requires FireSmart principles in designated areas.
These principles are no longer optional. Builders have the professional responsibility to understand and adopt FireSmart principles, especially in areas governed by the Wildfire DPA.
The Home Ignition Zone: Where Builders Have the Most Impact
A vital concept of FireSmart is that of the Home Ignition Zone (HIZ), which is the area within ten meters of a home. Research has revealed that most homes are ignited by embers that land on combustible materials near the structure, and not the wildfire front itself.
Material choice, landscaping plans, and building layouts are important considerations when designing and constructing homes. Ignition-resistant features protect both property and lives. They include:
- Fire-resistant roofing using Class-A materials like asphalt shingles and metal.
- Non-combustible siding made from metal, fibre-cement, or treated stucco.
- Enclosed soffits and vent screens that block ember entry.
- Non-combustible fencing, particularly where it is connected directly to the structure.
- Decking made of ignition-resistant materials, such as metal or composite boards.
In addition to the use of appropriate materials, it is vital to maintain proper spacing between vegetation and structures. Keeping zones clear of debris can play a significant role in mitigating risk.
The Wildfire DPA: Understanding the Regulatory Landscape
Squamish’s Wildfire Development Permit Area (DPA) provides specific safety standards that regulate new development or substantial renovation in wildfire-prone areas. When building within the DPA, a Development Permit is required to show that your project aligns with wildfire risk reduction guidelines.
As a builder, be aware of the following:
- Fire-resistant Materials are Mandatory. Within the DPA, ignition-resistant materials for roofing, siding, index, and fencing are required for building approval.
- Landscaping Restrictions are in Effect. Builders and landscapers must refer to the Wildlife DPA Compliant Hedge Alternatives Guide for a list of suitable evergreen species to use in place of cedar, yew, and other flammable plant species.
- Landscaping Bylaws are Enforced. The Wildfire Landscaping Management Bylaw and Tree Management Bylaw impact the management of trees and clearing of vegetation on-site. The planting and removal of vegetation must be done within permitted guidelines, especially when coordinating excavation and site prep.
- A Home Ignition Zone Assessment is Mandatory. A FireSmart home assessment is normally part of the permitting process. This is a one- to two-hour walkthrough conducted by local FireSmart staff to identify vulnerabilities and provide recommendations to mitigate risk.
Incorporating FireSmart into Your Workflow
Builders should incorporate FireSmart principles early in the planning and design phase to save time and expenses down the road. To integrate wildfire resilience efficiently, you should:
- Start with Education.
Familiarize your team with FireSmart basics by taking the FireSmart 101 online course. This free training is an excellent resource for contractors, site supervisors, and subcontractors.
- Plan with Regulations in Mind.
Consult the FireSmart Construction Guide and Squamish’s CWPP (Community Wildlife Protection Plan). These documents provide best practices and detail site-specific risks.
- Coordinate with the District.
Connect with Squamish Fire Rescue planning staff before your project gets underway. Confirm your site’s location within the DPA to determine if you will need a FireSmart compliance review.
- Document Everything.
When it’s time to submit plans for approval, be sure to clearly indicate where FireSmart principles have been applied. Provide details regarding materials, landscaping, and mitigation strategies. This can expedite permit review.
Community Chipper Days & Resident Support
Ongoing maintenance is a major roadblock to community-wide fire safety. To help address this, Squamish has instituted Community Chipper Days, during which residents can dispose of flammable brush curbside. Builders can take advantage of these events to clean up lots and help promote FireSmart practices.
Assistance is available for those who are physically unable to maintain FireSmart standards on their properties.
Funding, Rebates, and Incentives
FireSmart aims for more than just compliance – it seeks collaboration. To this end, the District of Squamish supports wildfire resilience initiatives, including:
- Rebate Programs. These are available to homeowners who implement FireSmart upgrades.
- Plant Subsidies in partnership with local nurseries.
- Ongoing Investments in firefighter training and structural protection units.
Builders should inform their clients about these incentives, which not only increase the adoption of FireSmart principles but also reflect well on the builder’s brand as one that goes beyond the minimum.
Why it Matters
FireSmart goes beyond simply following a set of regulations. It is a means of protecting those who will live in the homes you build. The decisions made by builders in fire-prone landscapes can impact entire communities.
FireSmart homes also benefit firefighters by allowing them to focus their efforts on the fire itself, rather than struggling to protect endangered structures. Building fire-resistant homes allows firefighters to work more efficiently on containing wildfires.
Final Thoughts
Whether they realize it or not, builders are on the front lines of wildfire resilience. Adopting FireSmart practices is a vital part of building safe, sustainable communities, making it integral to modern building practices. At Blue Water Concepts, we understand that and are ready to make your home FireSmart from the start.