Grand County workshop reviews Wildfire Resiliency Code; staff directed to draft local amendments

Community Development and building officials led a workshop on the Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code (WRC), which takes effect July 1, 2026. Chief Building Official Rob Wilson summarized conflicting cost estimates: a California economic study suggesting a 2% to 3% construction-cost increase for ignition-resistant materials versus local builders' estimates of 20% to 30% increases in mountain climates. Wilson said enforcement will require added inspection tracks and possible reinstatement of siding permits to validate underfloor enclosures, eaves, vents and decking materials.

Aaron Johnson of the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control said Headwaters Economics is conducting a Colorado-specific cost study to provide more localized data. Board members expressed concern that the WRC's 500-square-foot threshold for additions would be regressive for small homeowners and asked staff to explore a sliding percentage threshold (25% to 50% of existing footprint) as a local amendment. Chief White and staff warned that noncompliance could negatively affect grant scoring and insurance underwriting; the Board directed staff to draft amendment options and return for a continued public hearing.