Colorado Wildfire Zones Law: Statewide Fire Regulations Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: CRS 24-33.5-1226
Authority: WUI Code Board (DFPC)
Local minimum: Must meet or exceed state code
Hazard mapping: CO-WRA / CSFS Forest Atlas

Source: C.R.S. 24-33.5-1236 - Wildfire resiliency code board

Full Breakdown

Under CRS 24-33.5-1226, enacted by HB23-1273, Colorado created a Wildland-Urban Interface Code Board within the Division of Fire Prevention and Control to adopt model WUI codes addressing ignition-resistant construction, defensible space zones, and access requirements in mapped hazard areas. Counties and municipalities in WUI areas must adopt codes meeting state minimums by the deadlines set by the Board. The CSFS Forest Atlas and CO-WRA hazard mapping designates which parcels fall under WUI requirements.

Violations & Penalties

Local jurisdictions enforce the adopted WUI code through building permit denial, stop-work orders, and civil penalties set by adopting ordinance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Colorado WUI building codes mandatory statewide?

Yes in mapped WUI hazard areas. Under HB23-1273, local jurisdictions must adopt WUI codes that meet or exceed the state minimum standards set by the Code Board.

How do I know if my Colorado property is in a WUI zone?

Check the Colorado Wildfire Risk Assessment Portal (CO-WRA) and the CSFS Forest Atlas, which map parcels by wildfire hazard rating used by counties for WUI code enforcement.

Colorado Wildland-Urban Interface Code Minimum Standards

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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