Boulder Council Reviews Wildfire Hardening and Waterwise Landscaping Updates

Boulder City Council has made significant strides in enhancing community safety and sustainability through its recent discussions on wildfire hardening and water-wise landscaping. During the study session held on August 2, 2025, city officials provided updates on two priority projects aimed at mitigating wildfire risks and promoting efficient water use in landscaping.

The council has adopted the 2024 International Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) code, which will take effect on August 1, 2025. This new code expands the designated wildfire risk areas from 4,000 to 6,000 parcels within the city. Key regulations include restrictions on vegetation in the non-combustible zone—an area extending 0 to 5 feet from structures—to enhance fire safety. Experts have advised against any exceptions to this rule, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a fire-resistant environment.

In addition to the WUI code, the council is also focusing on updating its landscaping regulations for the first time in over 20 years. This initiative is driven by recent state legislation prohibiting nonfunctional turf in new developments and public spaces, which aligns with Boulder’s goals of water conservation and wildfire resilience. The city is working on a new plant list that prioritizes low-flammability species, ensuring that landscaping practices contribute to both aesthetic appeal and environmental sustainability.

City officials highlighted the need for ongoing collaboration across departments to implement these changes effectively. They are also exploring future projects that could include expanding curbside assessments and enhancing incentive programs for property owners to adopt wildfire mitigation practices voluntarily.

As Boulder moves forward with these initiatives, the council remains committed to fostering a safer and more sustainable community, recognizing the critical balance between environmental stewardship and public safety. The next steps will involve finalizing the landscaping code updates and ensuring compliance with state regulations, with the aim of rolling out these changes in the coming months.