Public hearing set March 30 on Lake County wildfire resiliency code

Planning staff announced a public hearing on the county’s proposed wildfire resiliency code and accompanying map will be held March 30 at 4:00 p.m. in the county board room. Staff recommended adopting the Colorado code and a map that designates most areas of Lake County as low, moderate or high intensity for wildfire risk. If the board adopts the code on March 30, staff said it would become effective July 1.

The proposed rules would require hardening measures for new construction and for additions or repairs that meet specified thresholds. Planning staff described required exterior materials and measures, including non-combustible siding and attention to eaves, gutters, doors and windows, and the creation of three defensible-space zones around structures to reduce wildfire spread. "The public hearing on the wildfire resiliency code is coming up on the 30th, next week from today," staff said, noting building and planning departments would administer the changes.

Staff also told commissioners the building department expects the Board of Review to adopt the 2024 International Codes to replace the 2018 I-codes, with an implementation window aimed for the end of June. Commissioners were given the opportunity to ask questions and were directed to the upcoming hearing for full consideration and public comment. The hearing is scheduled as an opportunity for residents and stakeholders to review the code text and mapped designations before any formal action by the board.