SB 762 requires structure hardening in areas shown as high or extreme fire risk and in an area shown as Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) which means that new building codes will be adopted to require standards for materials and construction features to make buildings more resistant to fire. The Oregon Residential Specialty Code Section R327 is in the process of being modified to set the new standards. These modifications will apply to new structures and to remodeling of existing buildings. Exterior materials are to be fire proof or fire resistant. Decks and other features will also need fire proof material and construction features to increase fire resistence. Areas that could allow sparks or fire debris into attics or under decks will need to prevent this type of fire spread. Gutters will need to be noncombustible and be covered to prevent a build up of leaves and debris.
Current Specialty Codes Wildfire Sections are seen at:
“the Department of Consumer and Business Services shall adopt wildfire hazard mitigation building code standards that apply to new dwellings and the accessory structures …to include standards for additions to existing dwellings and accessory structures and for replacement of existing exterior elements”
The original time frame was to require the rules to be in place before the end of the year and that the rules will apply to new permits by April 1, 2023. However these dates are not accurate as the map that designates high and extreme fire risk has been withdrawn for revision and not planned for adoption until November of 2023. Final adoption of Building Code revisions will occur after final adoption of the Risk Map. Comments are still being accepted on code revisions. Send comments to RulesCoordinator.BCD@dcbs.oregon.gov
The Oregon Homebuilders Association has estimated that the revisions to the building code will increase the cost of a 1400 square foot dwelling by $8200. This will have the consequence of making affordable housing even less achievable.