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Don't Get Burned - Fire Code Update for Mulch Requirement Is In Effect

General News Article

A reminder that the Department of Community Affairs has adopted changes to the Uniform Fire Code regarding the use of mulch around combustible building materials.
 
The regulations, effective April 15, 2025, require that a minimum of 18 inches of space separate mulch beds from combustible building materials. That includes spaces off a deck, porch, balcony, or any other portion of the building that is constructed of combustible material.
 
THE FOLLOWING ARE EXEMPT FROM THE NEW REGULATIONS:
  • Owner occupied, one- and two-family or attached single family structures used exclusively for dwelling purposes. 
  • Most townhomes that are classified as R3, R4 & R5; and
  • Buildings made of noncombustible material, such as warehouses.
 
Exceptions:
  1. Live plant material such as shrubs, flowers, and trees, provided that they are not beneath a combustible overhang with less than 6 feet of clearance.
  2. Non-combustible building or structure exteriors that have no combustible components or trim with less than 3 feet of clearance from grade.
  3. Fire-resistant mulch.
 
Adopted Fire Code (See Section 305.6 Landscape Materials)
 

Don't Get Burned - Fire Code Update for Mulch Requirement Is In Effect

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