Utah’s New Wildfire Law Now in Effect: What Homeowners Need to Know to Stay Compliant SavATree helps Utah homeowners navigate House Bill 48 defensible space requirements [Bedford Hills, NY] — Utah’s House Bill 48 (“Wildland Urban Interface Modifications”) took effect January 1, 2026, introducing new compliance requirements for homeowners in high-risk Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) areas. With wildfire season approaching and local enforcement underway, SavATree is encouraging Utah homeowners to understand their obligations and review their properties to determine whether action is needed. What does HB 48 require? Key provisions include: Local governments in the Cooperative Wildfire System must adopt and enforce Utah’s WUI code governing vegetation management around structures. Taxable structures within the high-risk WUI boundary may be subject to an annual fee of $20–$100 in 2026–2027, with fees tiered by triage assessment scores beginning in 2028. Homeowners may request a free, state-certified lot assessment to receive a personalized mitigation plan and potentially reduce their annual fee. Insurers must use the state’s high-risk WUI map when classifying properties and provide justification when raising premiums by 20% or more or discontinuingcoverage. Is your property affected? Start by searching your address at the Utah Wildfire Risk Assessment Portal (wildfirerisk.utah.gov). Properties within the boundary may be subject to annual fees and local WUI code requirements. A free, certified lot assessment is expected to be available from the Division of Forestry, Fire, and State Lands in late spring 2026, provides a personalized mitigation plan and may help reduce applicable fees. How SavATree helps support compliance Once a lot assessment or local municipality guidance is available, SavATree’s licensed, fully insured teams can provide vegetation management services to help meet WUI code requirements, including: Defensible space creation: Managing vegetation zones around structures using specialized equipment and trained crews. Tree, shrub, and brush removal: Removing dead or high-risk vegetation that may need to be cleared or relocated to align with defensible space standards. Pruning and replanting: Reducing fire pathways and replanting trees and shrubs at compliant distances when needed. Many Utah homeowners may not yet be aware that this law is now in effect or that mitigation work could be recommended following an assessment. Important note: SavATree does not perform official wildfire risk assessments under HB 48. For certified lot assessments or compliance questions, contact your local municipality, fire authority, or the Utah Division of Forestry, Fire, and State Lands. SavATree can review recommended scopes of work and provide vegetation management services to help support compliance. SavATree’s tips for meeting Utah’s WUI requirements Homeowners should verify specific requirements with their local government, as standards may vary by municipality: Confirm your status: Search your address at wildfirerisk.utah.gov to determine whether your property is within the high-risk WUI boundary. Remove dead trees: Dead trees are a significant fire risk and are often required to be addressed under local WUI codes. Create defensible space: Local requirements may include maintaining at least 30 feet of managed space around structures. Address the 10-foot zone: Trees and shrubs within 10 feet of a structure may need to be removed or relocated in accordance with local guidance. About SavATree SavATree provides professional tree, shrub, and lawn care services through certified arborists and trained specialists nationwide. Our teams combine science-based solutions with local expertise to help homeowners manage and care for their landscapes. To speak with a local expert about your Utah property, visit savatree.com or call your local branch. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with an expert arborist.