Planning commission begins work session on 2024 building codes, LECC and wildfire resiliency code

Staff opened a work session to review proposed updates to the Ridgeway Municipal Code, explaining the town is considering adoption of the 2024 International Code Council model codes and two state minimum codes: the Colorado Low Energy Carbon Code (LECC) and the Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code (CWRC). Staff said the LECC text is currently pre-publication and that the town’s regional code cohort and Eco Action Partners produced a draft regional amendment package.

“The Colorado model low energy carbon code is based on the 2024 IECC,” staff said, noting the code’s purpose is to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions and that state law (House Bill 22-1362) required the code’s creation. Staff outlined a schedule that includes a February public information session, a March planning commission public hearing, and council readings in April and May, with an intended July 1 effective date for local implementation. Staff cautioned that the LECC’s pre-publication status and outstanding state guidance — especially about fire-code intersections — mean the commission should take a deliberative approach and ask questions now to inform a March recommendation.

Commissioners asked for clarification on which appendices the town should adopt and whether local amendments are permitted. Staff emphasized jurisdictions may select optional regional amendments and that the cohort drafted recommendations to achieve regional consistency. The discussion set expectations for additional technical follow-up before the planning commission’s March public hearing.