Lakewood Wildfire Resiliency Code
Welcome to this project page as the city works toward implementation of wildfire resiliency regulations in accordance with state law. The new code will ensure that properties in Lakewood will meet statewide minimum standards while also aligning with Jefferson County's policy to maintain consistency across jurisdictions. We also need your input on this project. You can participate in several ways:
- Take the weekly quick polls.
- Review the frequently asked questions and key code features below.
- Check the project map.
- Ask a question.
- Review the project timeline.
- Follow the project to receive updates.
Importance of wildfire resiliency code
The Wildfire Resiliency Code helps safeguard lives and property by reducing the risk of ignition during wildfire events. It incorporates measures that limit ember intrusion and prevent flame spread, which are among the leading causes of home loss in wildfires. Beyond improving safety, the code ensures Lakewood complies with state law and maintains consistency with Jefferson County’s standards, creating a unified and effective approach to regional wildfire protection.
FAQs:
What is the Lakewood Wildfire Resiliency Code?
The Lakewood Wildfire Resiliency Code is a new set of building and landscaping standards designed to reduce wildfire risk in areas identified on the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) map. The zones identified on the map indicate where homes and wildland vegetation meet, creating higher exposure to embers, radiant heat, and direct flames.
Why is a new code being considered?
The Lakewood Wildfire Resiliency Code is being considered in response to Colorado Senate Bill 23-166, which requires all local governments to implement wildfire resiliency regulations by April 1, 2026. This new code ensures that impacted properties in Lakewood meet statewide minimum standards while also aligning with Jefferson County’s more stringent policy to maintain consistency across jurisdictions. The ordinance will take effect on July 1, 2026, and will apply to all building permits submitted after that date.
When does the Wildfire Resiliency Code apply to your property or project?
The Wildfire Resiliency Code primarily applies to new construction, major additions, and significant exterior renovations within the designated wildfire hazard areas. Interior-only remodels are exempt unless exterior elements such as windows, doors, siding, or roofing are replaced. Existing homes may remain as they are unless they pose a distinct hazard to life or property.
Below are some examples to illustrate when the new code would be applicable:
I am planning to build a 600 square foot addition to my existing home located in a WUI area. How will I be impacted by the Wildfire Resiliency Code?
- The addition must incorporate fire-resistant construction practices. This means using materials and design features that help prevent ignition from embers and flames, such as durable roofing, protected wall surfaces, and windows designed to withstand heat.
- If the renovation involves replacing more than 25% of the exterior surface area such as large sections of the roof or siding the updated areas must meet wildfire resiliency material standards. This ensures that major improvements enhance the overall fire resistance of the structure rather than leaving vulnerable sections.
- Defensible space requirements apply. Homeowners must remove all combustible vegetation within 5 ft of the structure and ensue that trees and shrubs in the Intermediate Zone (5 feet –30 feet) zone are properly spaced and separated from any structures.
I am planning to remodel the kitchen in my existing home located within a WUI area. How will I be impacted by the Wildfire Resiliency Code?
- The wildfire resiliency code requirements would not apply in this case if the work is entirely inside of the house.
- If the work includes replacing exterior windows or doors, those materials must meet the tempered glass or fire-rated standards.
Key features of the code
Structure Hardening refers to construction practices and material choices that make a building more resistant to ignition from embers, radiant heat, and direct flames during a wildfire. This includes using Class A fire-rated roofing assemblies, noncombustible or ignition-resistant siding, ember-resistant attic and crawlspace vents, and tempered or multi-layered glass for windows and glazed doors. Decks, fences, and retaining walls within 8 feet of a structure must use noncombustible or ignition-resistant materials.
Additional measures include protecting eaves and soffits, enclosing underfloor areas, and using fire-resistant materials for decks and exterior projections. These requirements significantly reduce the likelihood of a structure catching fire during a wildfire event.
Defensible Space is the area surrounding a home or structure that is intentionally managed to reduce wildfire risk. It involves creating vegetation-free or low-fuel zones to prevent flames and embers from reaching the building. The code divides this into zones:
- Immediate Zone (0–5 feet): Remove all combustible materials, shrubs, and mulch; use noncombustible surfaces like gravel or concrete.
- Intermediate Zone (5–30 feet): Space trees and shrubs to break up fuel continuity, prune branches, and remove dead plant material. Certain high-risk plants, such as junipers, are prohibited.
These measures slow fire spread, reduce ember ignition, and provide firefighters with a safer area to defend the structure.
