Garfield County adopting Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code – Garfield County, Colorado
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Wildfire smoke over Glenwood Springs from the Spring Creek Fire near Parachute, Colorado.

Garfield County adopting Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code

New code designed to strengthen community safety, reduce wildfire risk

PRESS RELEASE
February 17, 2026

Garfield County is in the process of adopting the Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code (CWRC) as required by State Bill 23-166. This is a major step forward in the county’s ongoing efforts to protect residents, property, and natural landscapes from increasing wildfire threats.

All building permits submitted after July 1, 2026, are required to comply with the new code. The Board of County Commissioners is considering adoption during its March meetings.

An educational Zoom meeting for citizens, contractors, architects, and more is slated for 12 p.m. on March 3, 2026. The link is also posted on the Garfield County website and will be sent to contacts via email.

The new code establishes structure hardening and defensible space based on the Wildfire Classification Rating on the Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Map. The public can sign up for updates on the CWRC board webpage.

Wildfire risk is a growing concern on the Western Slope and by adopting the Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code, Garfield County is taking a proactive, responsible step to reduce risk, support safer development, and protect the people and places we value.

Please send questions to Garfield County Chief Building Official John Plano.