Chapter 3 Fire Policy in the Urban–wildland Interface in the United States: What are the Issues and Possible Solutions?

Abstract

The urban–wildland interface (UWI) poses a series of challenges to both rural and urban communities in the United States. Some efforts have been developed to promote the use of fire-resistant building materials and creation of defensible space; few comprehensive laws address the threat of external ignitions on structures. Most problems associated with the private side of the UWI are centered on land planning methods. Communities and counties must be encouraged to take more active roles in wildfire protection and this will require a fundamentally new method of land planning and review authority. Without substantial changes in land planning, we will continue to experience large losses of structures and life in the UWI.

Citation

Stephens, S.L. and Collins, B.M. (2007), "Chapter 3 Fire Policy in the Urban–wildland Interface in the United States: What are the Issues and Possible Solutions?", Troy, A. and Kennedy, R.G. (Ed.) Living on the Edge (Advances in the Economics of Environmental Resources, Vol. 6), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 33-42. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1569-3740(06)06003-2