Larimer County, CO Fire Regulations: Wildfire Zones (2026)
Key Facts
- WUI area
- Entire unincorporated county
- Trigger
- New builds, large additions
- Roofs
- Class A required
- Effective
- January 1, 2026
- Appeal
- Ground-truthing review available
Summary
Because of its wildfire history (Cameron Peak and High Park fires), Larimer County declares ALL unincorporated land a wildland-urban interface area. New and altered structures countywide must meet wildfire structure-hardening and defensible-space requirements.
Because of the history of and potential for large, destructive wildland fires, all of unincorporated Larimer County is deemed a wildland-urban interface area.
Full Breakdown
The Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code as adopted by Larimer County (effective January 1, 2026) deems the entire unincorporated county a WUI area rather than mapping only isolated pockets. Structures and parcels must be built and maintained per Chapter 4 structure hardening (Class A roofs, ignition-resistant materials, ember-resistant vents) and Chapter 5 site and defensible-space requirements. Owners may request a "ground-truthing" review of their parcel's wildfire hazard. Wildfire hazard maps are posted online. Requirements generally trigger on new construction, or additions and alterations exceeding 500 square feet or affecting 25% or more of walls or roof.
Violations & Fines
Work not meeting the code can be denied a permit or issued a stop-work order; ongoing maintenance of defensible space is the owner's responsibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my property in a wildfire hazard zone?
What do the wildfire zone rules require?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Larimer County
Compare Larimer County to another location·View the Colorado fire regulations overview
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