Mesa County adopts state-required Wildfire Resiliency Code for unincorporated areas
Mesa County Commissioners on Feb. 24 amended Ordinance 008(D) to adopt 2025 Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code for unincorporated areas of the county.
The change is required by Colorado law. In 2023, the Legislature directed counties, municipalities and fire districts to adopt a wildfire resiliency code that meets or exceeds a state model.
Where does this apply?
This adoption applies to unincorporated Mesa County. Cities and towns are required by state law to adopt a wildfire resiliency code within their own jurisdictions.
The code applies only in designated Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) areas — geographic areas where structures and other human development meet or intermix with wildland vegetation or other fuel sources.
While the entire valley is not within the WUI, there are designated WUI areas throughout Mesa County.
Mesa County will soon add a layer to its GIS mapping system so property owners can check whether their address is in a designated area. In the meantime, residents are encouraged to review the state’s WUI map.
Does this affect existing homes?
Existing homes may continue their current use.
The code primarily affects:
- New homes and new detached structures
- Additions of 500 square feet or more
- Certain exterior projects, such as replacing siding or roofing materials
Interior remodels are not affected.
If a property is located in a designated WUI area, exterior materials may need to meet fire-resistant standards. Landscaping near the structure may also need to meet defensible space requirements.
What is changing?
The code establishes baseline building standards in higher-risk wildfire areas. Depending on wildfire classification, projects may require:
- Fire-resistant roofing and siding
- Ember-resistant construction features
- Managed vegetation near structures
These requirements are intended to reduce wildfire risk to life and property.
When does this take effect?
The code becomes effective April 1, 2026. Enforcement begins July 1, 2026.
Permits applied for prior to the enforcement date will follow current building codes.
What happens next?
Wildfire hazard areas will be identified through official mapping based on vegetation, topography and fire behavior modeling. Those classifications determine which construction standards apply.
Property owners who believe a mapped classification does not reflect current site conditions may request a site-specific review, known as ground-truthing.
For more information, visit the Mesa County Building Department website. Information will be added as it becomes available.
