Fraser planners recommend adopting Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code and defensible-space rules

The planning commission voted to recommend approval of resolution 20260202 to amend chapter 19 and add defensible-space requirements consistent with the Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code. Assistant town planner Alan Seelos presented the state model code background, mapping and the intended local adoption steps. "So I'm Alan Seelos, assistant town planner," he said before outlining the code's origins and purpose.

Seelos explained that the code ties to a state wildland-urban interface map and focuses on two main components: structure hardening (building materials, roofs, decks, windows and other exterior features) and defensible-space landscaping (three ignition zones with specific planting and clearance guidance). "The main components of those are structure hardening and defensible space," he said. Staff proposed adopting the structure-hardening provisions by reference into chapter 18 and amending chapter 19 with defensible-space landscaping standards, including ignition-resistance planting lists and a requirement that additions of 500 sq ft or more show defensible-space plans. The commission voted to recommend the code amendment and to coordinate with Winter Park and the local fire district on implementation details and timelines.