Wildfire Development Permit UPdate

Background OCP Sect. 8.12 Wildfire Development Permit Guidelines were adopted on October 28, 2014. Intent is to minimize the risk to people and property through appropriate precautionary measures. The guidelines were the result of an extensive consultation program.

Activity to Date Received 12 Wildfire Hazard Assessments since adoption, and 3 Development Permits have been approved. Moving from National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards to FireSmart principles. The map identifying the areas subject to the Wildfire DP is not proposed to change.

Issues There are 3 key areas that need to be addressed with the updated guidelines: Building Separation Access Building Materials

Building Separation Issue: NFPA requires that any building shall be separated from another building by at least 9.1 m. Zoning Bylaw has smaller setbacks:

Building Separation Recommendation:

Access Issue: NFPA requires a clear width of 3.7 m for each lane of travel, conflicts with Engineering design standards. Recommendation: Would like to see 2 accesses for new subdivisions, but if not possible, need to provide a point at strategic locations where 2 fire trucks could pass each other. Also could provide an emergency UTV trail system.

Building Materials Issue: NFPA requires exterior vertical walls to meet the requirements for heavy timber construction, ignition-resistive material, fire-retardant-treated wood, or be a min. 20 minute fire-rated assembly where walls are potentially exposed to a wildland fire. Recommendation: That exterior elevations exposed to the wildfire interface be constructed of ignition-resistant or non-combustible materials.

Additional Revisions Exempt single family dwellings that only require a Building Permit from the DP; however a restrictive covenant would be used to regulate the building design and landscaping. Remove report guidelines from Schedule J and add the application form and fee to the requirements.

Early and Ongoing Consultation In addition to the Public Hearing, we’re seeking input from: Urban Development Institute and Greater Vancouver Home Builders Association Builders’ Forum Agricultural Land Commission

Questions?