More than half of Austin falls within one of the City’s Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) zones. Roofing work on these properties can have additional fire-resistance, material and permit requirements.
Which WUI Code Is Current?
For projects submitted on or after July 10, 2025, Austin applies its amended 2024 International Wildland-Urban Interface Code. The property’s WUI zone affects the exact requirements.
Class A Roofing
Austin’s current WUI guidance requires a Class A roof assembly. The rating applies to the roof assembly, not just the visible roof covering, so underlayment, insulation and sheathing can matter along with shingles, metal or tile.
Roof Valleys and Other Details
WUI roof rules also address roof valleys, eaves, soffits, vents, skylights and other openings that can be vulnerable to embers. Austin’s guidance requires compliant valley construction and specifies additional ember-resistance details by zone.
Permit Impact for Reroofing
Austin’s normal permit exemptions for some residential reroof work have an important WUI exception: when a property is in the WUI and 50% or more of the roofing is being replaced, additional requirements apply and an Express Permit may be needed.
Check the Property Before Choosing Materials
Before ordering roofing materials, check the City’s current WUI map and approved-material guidance. A product that is acceptable for a standard reroof may not satisfy every WUI assembly or detail requirement.
For material options, see metal roofing in Austin and asphalt shingle roofing.