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County staff outline timeline to adopt Colorado’s Low Energy and Carbon Code
Summary
San Miguel County building staff briefed commissioners on plans to move from the 2018 code cycle to the 2024 Low Energy and Carbon Code (LECC), citing state statutory triggers and a schedule that includes planning commission review in August and BOCC adoption targeted in September, with enforcement expected by fall 2027.
Matt Gonzales, representing the county building department, updated the commission on efforts to adopt the Low Energy and Carbon Code (LECC) and the related public-engagement schedule.
Matt said the county is currently on the 2018 international code cycle and is planning to transition to the 2024 cycle and incorporate the LECC. He emphasized the county is “now obligated to adopt the model of energy and carbon code ... by the state” as a result of recent statute, and the plan is to present amendments to the planning commission on Aug. 13 and return to the board for adoption in September. "This timeline allows us to continue to take advantage of those grant funds that we've been participating in so far," Matt said.
Shauna Mozingo, a code consultant appearing for Naresco, explained that the LECC derives from the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code and that jurisdictions must choose local definitions for triggers such as what constitutes a "substantial" or "major" remodel — options include percent of building, square footage or valuation. Shauna noted jurisdictions vary and offered to supply examples and exceptions in writing. "The LECC is written to increase flexibility and provide options to builders for compliance," she said.
Commissioners and staff discussed equity and affordability concerns for lower-value homes, the challenge of cumulative or broken-up projects that might avoid triggers, and operational implications for plan review and auditing. Matt committed to continued conversations with the planning commission and to return with an amendment package prepared for public hearings and the county's consideration.
Next steps recorded in the meeting: planning commission review (Aug. 13), return to the BOCC for potential adoption in September (dates subject to adjustment), and targeted enforcement by fall 2027.
