We are welding two round pieces together and nothing is called out about cutting or prepping the welded edges. The notes reference AWS D1.1. Does AWS D1.1 address weld prep of edges?
Assuming you have a pre-qualified joint configuration, AWS allows flame cut, machined, or ground faces. The configuration and the dimensions of the profile are more important than the way you get there; however, avoid deep gouges in flame cuts as this will decrease the quality of your weld.