Contractors Face New Rules As Scottsdale Steps Up Wildfire Prevention Efforts

SCOTTSDALE, AZ — A new Scottsdale rule is putting more responsibility on contractors working near the McDowell Sonoran Preserve as the city looks to prevent wildfires before they start.

Beginning immediately, contractors performing hot work in designated areas near the Preserve and other wildland zones must notify the Scottsdale Fire Department at least 24 hours before starting projects involving activities such as welding, cutting, grinding, brazing or torch-applied roofing.

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City officials say the advance notice will give fire crews time to coordinate with contractors and identify potential risks before sparks or heat-producing work begins in areas surrounded by dry desert vegetation.

"Hot work operations have repeatedly sparked brush fires near the Preserve," Fire Chief Tom Shannon said. "This notification requirement gives our crews the lead time they need to help contractors work safely while keeping our open space and community protected."

The new requirement applies to contractors working in Scottsdale's designated Wildland Urban Interface and open space areas. The notification does not replace existing hot work permits required under the International Fire Code and NFPA 51B standards.

Contractors must notify the Scottsdale Fire Department at least 24 hours before beginning work by calling 480-312-4895 or sending an email. Projects scheduled for a Monday, or the day after a city holiday, must be reported on the previous business day.

The city is also reminding contractors of additional safety requirements designed to reduce wildfire risks. Work areas must be cleared of flammable vegetation and materials within 15 feet, hot work must be performed on noncombustible surfaces, and fire suppression equipment must be available throughout the project.

Work must stop during Red Flag Warnings or when sustained winds exceed 15 mph. Crews are also required to maintain a fire watch during hot work and for at least 60 minutes after the job is completed.

Scottsdale officials say contractors who fail to follow the new notification requirement could face a stop-work order, citation or denial of a certificate of occupancy.

The new advisory is part of Scottsdale's larger wildfire prevention strategy for its 57 square miles of wildland preserve. Other efforts include fuel reduction projects, natural area management, brush patrols and ongoing work to reduce hazards in areas where development meets open desert.

Residents who see an active fire or immediate safety concern should call 911.