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1. Question: Does my property need to meet wildfire and defensible space regulations in Jefferson County?

Jefferson County requires a Defensible Space Permit (i.e. wildfire mitigation work) on properties within the Wildland Urban Interface Overlay District (above 6,400 feet in elevation) in the following instances:

• New structures or replacements of structures
• Additions to existing structures
• New development projects, such as new subdivision plats
• When required by a note on a subdivision plat

Wildfire mitigation work must be inspected by a County-approved forester (PDF). Please get in touch with a Planner to see if your project may require a Defensible Space Permit.

Helpful Resources:

• Wildland Urban Interface Overlay District Map
• Section 39 of the Zoning Resolution (Wildland Urban Interface Overlay District)
• See The Home Ignition Zone: A guide to preparing your home for wildfire and creating defensible space, prepared by the Colorado State Forest Service.

2. How do I create a defensible space around my homesite to meet the county's wildfire regulations?

• Learn more about creating wildfire defensible space by reading The Home Ignition Zone: A guide to preparing your home for wildfire and creating defensible space. 
• There is also a helpful section about Defensible Space Permits on our website.
• The Colorado State Forest Service "Protect Your Home & Property from Wildfire" web page has many helpful resources for homeowners looking to create defensible space.

3. Will I need to cut down trees on my property if I pull a Building Permit?

Defensible Space Permits are only required for properties above 6,400 feet in elevation. Construction of any new structure, the replacement of an existing structure, or an addition to a structure (including decks) must complete an initial inspection for a Defensible Space Permit prior to being issued a Building Permit. All work and a final inspection must be complete prior to the County issuing a Certificate of Occupancy for the Building Permit. Additional details can be found in the Wildland Urban Interface Overlay section of the Zoning Resolution.

A list of certified Foresters can be found here.