Fire Wise Design
UDLA recently designed and permitted an ADU located in a high fire hazard zone and knows what is required for approval by Cal Fire including fire resistant building materials and construction methods.
A wildfire in your area does not have to end in tragedy. Our core team has over 100-years of combined experience in site design, landscape architecture and irrigation design. If necessary, we will create a defensible space landscape design and management plan that minimizes fuel bridges.
UDLA can design and specify a variety of exterior sprinkler systems either around or on a build to help protect it in a wildfire.
There are numerous success stories where a professionally designed landscape and exterior sprinkler system either around or on a building has protected the structure from burning. With new technologies remote, satellite-enabled activation is possible so the inhabitants can operate the system after they have evacuated or while travelling.
Backup water and power sources are a must. For unique situation and large properties, a linear heat detection cable (HDC) make sense. The cables can detect heat conditions anywhere along the length of the cable. Once the polymer coating melts, the conductors initiate contact with one another and communicate with the control panel to sound alarms or activate suppressing systems. There are also systems that use photonic sensors which can detect 1 sq. ft. of flame from 1/4 mile away.
Area of Expertise
Private Estates
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU’s)
Schools / Campus
Public Realm
Parks and Recreation
Streetscapes
Landscape Design
Irrigation Design
Specialties
Feasibility and Site Strategy Studies
Facilities Planning and Alternative Schemes
Construction Documentation & Specifications
Irrigation Planning and Detailed Design
Estimates of Probable Cost
Horticulture Assessments
Contractor Negotiations
Construction Period Services
Project Close-Out
Universal Design (ADA)
Historic and Cultural Landscapes
Best Management Practices for Storm Water / C.3 Permitting (NPDES)
LEED & Bay Friendly Certifications