Rio Blanco commissioners seek state extension, cite mapping, cost and property-rights concerns over proposed WUI code

The Rio Blanco County Board of County Commissioners voted to ask the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control for more time and written clarification before deciding whether to adopt the state's proposed wildland-urban interface (WUI) or Colorado wildfire resiliency code.

Chair opened the special session and, after staff read five written comments from residents and the town of Rangely opposing adoption, Commissioner Jennifer moved to approve a county letter requesting an extension to Oct. 31, 2026, and written guidance about whether adopting the WUI code would directly or indirectly trigger additional implementation requirements. Commissioner 2 seconded the motion and the board approved it by roll call.

The letters read into the record argued the proposed code would create an onerous permitting regime and raise building costs without clear, enforceable state funding or…