Wood shake roofs are prized for their rustic charm and natural beauty—but in today’s fire-conscious and regulation-heavy environment, many homeowners are left wondering: Are wood shake roofs even legal anymore?\
The answer isn’t as simple as yes or no. In most parts of the United States, wood shake roofs are not banned outright, but they are increasingly restricted due to fire risk, insurance challenges, and building code updates—especially in wildfire-prone regions.
In this guide, we’ll explore what makes a wood shake roof legal or not, where restrictions are most common, and how fire-rated or synthetic alternatives are changing the landscape of this timeless roofing material.
What Is a Wood Shake Roof?
A wood shake roof is a type of roofing system made from split wooden shingles—usually cedar—that are hand-split or taper-sawn for a more rugged, textured look. Compared to smoother cedar shingles, shakes are thicker and less uniform, offering a natural aesthetic that complements rustic, historic, or high-end homes.
Shakes can be:
- Untreated (natural cedar)
- Pressure treated with fire retardants
- Synthetic versions made from composite materials
Are Wood Shake Roofs Banned?
No—wood shake roofs are not banned nationwide. However, their use is increasingly limited depending on where you live.
Here’s why:
- Fire risk is a major concern in many western states, particularly in Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) zones where homes and forests intersect.
- Building codes in certain counties or cities may restrict wood roofs that are not Class A fire rated.
- Some municipalities require new or replacement roofs to meet specific ignition resistance standards.
For example:
- In California, many jurisdictions prohibit untreated wood shake installations due to wildfire risk.
- In Colorado, local building codes may restrict wood roofs in high-risk fire zones.
- Even in more temperate states, some areas adopt strict fire-resistance codes that rule out non-treated wood roofing.
Always check with your local building department to verify current regulations before planning to install wood shakes.
Do Insurance Companies Cover Wood Shake Roofs?
This is where things get tricky. Even if wood shake roofs are legal in your area, your insurance company may have concerns.
Common insurance limitations for Wood Shaker Roofs:
- Higher premiums for homes with wood roofs due to increased fire risk
- Refusal to issue or renew policies on homes with untreated shake roofs
- Required upgrades to Class A fire-rated or impact-resistant roofing to maintain coverage
Many homeowners have been surprised to find that while their roof met local building codes, it didn’t meet their insurance provider’s criteria.
If you already have a wood shake roof, it’s worth checking in with your provider to ensure continued coverage—or to explore possible discounts if you switch to a fire-retardant or impact-resistant material.
Can You Still Install Wood Shake Roofs?
Yes, you can—if local building codes allow it, and you select the right product.
Ways to install wood shake roofs legally:
- Use pressure-treated, fire-retardant wood shakes that meet Class A, B, or C fire ratings
- Work with a licensed roofing contractor who understands local requirements and codes
- Submit permit applications with documentation on materials used, including safety certifications
In some areas, installing wood shakes without proper treatment or permits can result in denied approvals—or forced replacement.
What Are Class A Fire-Rated Wood Shakes?
Class A fire-rated wood shakes are manufactured with special pressure-treatments that reduce the material’s flammability and meet rigorous testing standards for flame spread and ignition resistance.
They are often required in areas with:
- High winds
- Wildfire history
- Strict building codes
Note: The fire rating of the entire roof assembly (not just the shakes) must meet Class A standards—this includes underlayment, sheathing, and spacing.
How Long Do Wood Shake Roofs Last?
A properly installed, pressure-treated wood shake roof can have a life expectancy of 15 to 25 years, especially with regular maintenance. However, factors like weather exposure, roof pitch, ventilation, and debris buildup can shorten that timeline.
Keep in mind:
- Untreated wood may decay faster and be more vulnerable to pests, mold, or warping
- Maintenance is required every few years to clean, seal, and inspect the roof
This adds long-term cost—something insurance companies and homeowners alike consider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are wood shake roofs illegal in the U.S.?
No, but some states, counties, and cities—especially those in wildfire zones—have building codes that restrict or prohibit untreated wood shake installations.
Will I need a permit to install a wood shake roof?
In most areas, yes. A permit helps verify that the roofing material meets local fire, wind, and building code requirements.
Are all wood shakes fireproof?
No. Only pressure-treated shakes with fire-retardant chemicals can achieve a Class A or B fire rating. Untreated shakes are not fire resistant and are often banned in high-risk zones.
Can I get insurance with a wood shake roof?
Possibly. Some insurance providers still cover wood shake roofs, but you may pay higher premiums—or be denied coverage—depending on the fire risk in your region.
Should I replace my wood shake roof?
If your existing roof is aging, uninsured, or no longer meets code, you may want to consider synthetic or Class A-rated alternatives that preserve the look of shake but offer better safety and coverage.
Talk to Warner Roofing & Construction About Wood Shake Roofs
Wood shake shingle roofs aren’t going away—but they are evolving. If you’re considering installing or replacing a wood shake roof, Warner Roofing & Construction can help you understand your options, local codes, and the safest path forward for your home.
Contact Warner Roofing today for expert guidance on shake, synthetic, or any other roofing system that fits your home and your peace of mind.
