A new law aimed at helping Utah residents strengthen their homes against wildfires will take effect in less than 30 days. However, local officials have reported that they still lack adequate guidance from the state for proper implementation. The legislation, known as HB 48, was passed by state lawmakers earlier this year to mitigate wildfire risks in urban-wildland interface areas (WUI). These areas are defined as regions where human development meets relatively untouched wildlands. The Utah Division of Forestry, Fire, and State Lands will publish an updated map of 'high-risk' WUI areas on January 1, coinciding with the law's implementation. Officials from Summit County anticipate that much of the Wasatch Back will be classified as WUI once the map is released. The law introduces an annual fee ranging from $20 to $100 for homeowners located in WUI zones. Funds collected will support the Division of Forestry in covering costs for assessors who will evaluate properties to ensure compliance with new codes aimed at enhancing home protection measures, referred to as 'home hardening.' Examples of such measures include installing metal roofs or replacing wooden fences with fire-resistant materials. Currently, the law mandates that homeowners within a WUI pay a fixed fee in 2026 and 2027, based on the total square footage of their property. Starting in 2028, homes will be assessed based on both size and a risk evaluation considering vegetation and building materials. Furthermore, the law encourages homeowners to undergo an annual assessment by a certified employee from the Division of Forestry, which will provide specific mitigation actions for their properties. Those who complete these actions will benefit from reduced fees. While these assessments are not mandatory, failing to complete one will result in the homeowner being charged the highest fee and classified as high risk. The law also prohibits insurance companies from designating homes as high risk if they are not within the published WUI boundaries. State legislators have indicated that they hope this legislation will help homeowners retain their insurance coverage while encouraging risk reduction. Ben Nielson, Chief of the North Summit Fire District, recently presented this WUI law to the Coalville City Council. While he expressed general support, he noted ongoing uncertainties regarding its implementation, particularly concerning fee schedules and the state map. Nielson plans to collaborate with local municipalities to develop maps for WUI areas, as required by the new law. Fire districts in Park City and South Summit are also tasked with coordinating with municipalities to create local WUI maps by the year’s end. More information about WUI-related legislation, including FAQs and homeowner resources, is available at ffsl.utah.gov/wuirisk.