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

If a new structure is being built in the mountains, the wildfire regulation will have to be met. Before a Certified Jefferson County Defensible Space Forester can do a site check, you will need a Wildfire defensible space permit, obtained at the Planning and Zoning department (see Defensible Space Contact form (PDF) and fees (PDF)). This can be applied for prior to or at the same time as the building permit. Bring a site plan with you at the time of application. There is a certain amount of risk in doing it prior to the building permit, primarily, that the structure may not end up where anticipated prior to the wildfire review. Wildfire regulations will also apply to any additions or decks.

• See the Zoning Resolution, Section 39, Wildfire Hazard Overlay District for a full description.
• 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 and 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.

A list of Certified Jefferson County Defensible Space Foresters can be found here.