Douglas County does not mandate defensible-space brush clearance by ordinance for existing homes; it is strongly encouraged and supported through a voluntary cost-share program. Colorado State Forest Service recommends clearing a 0-5 ft noncombustible zone and thinning fuels out to 100 ft.
Unlike some states, Douglas County has no countywide ordinance forcing homeowners to clear brush around existing homes. Instead the County runs a Wildfire Mitigation Cost-Share Program: eligible projects must be within the County's Wildland-Urban Interface, contain a wildfire hazard determined by County staff, and follow Firewise and Colorado State Forest Service (CSFS) standards. CSFS defensible-space guidance divides the home area into zones - Zone 1 (0-30 ft) lean, clean and green; Zone 2 (30-100 ft) reduced and separated fuels; Zone 3 (100+ ft) forest thinning. HOAs and metro districts (e.g., Roxborough, foothill communities) may impose their own vegetation rules. New WUI construction must meet adopted wildfire building standards.
No County penalty for failing to clear brush on existing lots; HOA covenants may require it. Cost-share awards cap at $25,000 individual / $50,000 community.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Douglas County, CO
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See how Douglas County's brush clearance rules stack up against other locations.
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