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Council adopts state wildfire resiliency code; staff warn of cost implications for new construction
Summary
On second reading the council adopted Ordinance 10-2026, the city’s required adoption of the 2025 Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code and map; staff highlighted that class-two standards will affect new construction with items such as tempered glass, noncombustible decking and defensible-site plans.
The Alamosa City Council adopted Ordinance 10-2026 on second reading, formally incorporating the state’s 2025 Wildfire Resiliency Code and map into the city’s regulations.
Development-services staff explained the ordinance implements requirements under Senate Bill 23166 and that local jurisdictions must adopt the state code and the state wildfire-risk map without substantive edits. Staff said the city is categorized as a "class two" wildfire risk area, meaning several construction and landscape standards will apply to new development in mapped zones.
Staff outlined examples of likely requirements for new builds in affected areas: tempered or class-rated glass to delay window failure, composite (noncombustible) decking rather than wood, prohibitions on wooden fences within specified distances, and defensible-site plans submitted with building permits. The staff presentation warned that such measures can raise construction costs and complicate affordability for new housing, especially where appraisal values remain low.
A public hearing was opened and closed with no speakers. The council moved to adopt Ordinance 10-2026 on second reading; the motion carried unanimously.
Provenance: The code presentation, the public hearing (no public speakers), and the unanimous second-reading vote occurred during the development services agenda item.
Ending: Ordinance 10-2026 is adopted; staff said enforcement focus will be on permit-time review and public education and that some landscaping requirements will apply primarily to new construction rather than to existing structures.
