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  • July 2024: Boulder County Launches Updated Online Building Permit Portal

    July 2024: Boulder County Launches Updated Online Building Permit Portal

    Boulder County Community Planning & Permitting has launched an updated online building permit portal with improved search functionality, real-time status tracking, and mobile-friendly document uploads. The new system reduces average permit review times by 15% and allows applicants to schedule inspections online.

    A community information session will be held at the Superior library on Monday, May 4 at 6:00 PM. Translation services in Spanish and Nepali will be available. The session will also be livestreamed on the Boulder County YouTube channel.

    The project includes improvements along Flagstaff Road between Superior and the intersection with Left Hand Canyon Drive. Construction is scheduled to begin in May 2026 with completion expected within 17 months.

    Related Programs

    Public comment on this matter can be submitted through the Boulder County online portal, by email to Community Planning & Permitting, or in person at the next Board of County Commissioners meeting. Written comments received by 5:00 PM the day before the hearing will be included in the public record.

    Historical context: Boulder County was established in 1861 and covers 741 square miles of diverse terrain from the Great Plains to the Continental Divide. The county’s population of approximately 330,000 residents is served by 1863 county employees across 40 departments and offices.

    Resources

    Environmental review of the project area near Flagstaff Road found 4 sensitive species and 3 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Community Planning & Permitting worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.

  • New Funding Opportunity to Support Housing for People with Disabilities — April 2025

    New Funding Opportunity to Support Housing for People with Disabilities — April 2025

    Boulder County Housing & Human Services announces a new funding opportunity for projects that create or preserve affordable, accessible housing for people with disabilities. Up to $500,000 is available for capital improvements, accessibility modifications, and supportive housing development. Applications are due May 1.

    For questions about this program, contact Sarah Mitchell at Resource Conservation: (303) 441-1077 or email Resource [email protected]. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Walk-in services are available at the Louisville office without an appointment.

    Data from the 2026 Boulder County Community Survey shows that 19% of respondents rated this service as “important” or “very important.” The survey, conducted every two years, received 2,250 responses from residents across the county.

    Related Programs

    The Louisville Senior Center offers related programming including free legal consultations, tax preparation assistance, health screenings, and social activities. Over 1,173 seniors participated in center programs last year.

    Water quality monitoring at 13 stations along Boulder Creek, St. Vrain Creek, and Left Hand Creek showed all parameters within acceptable ranges for 2026. The Resource Conservation publishes quarterly water quality reports on the Boulder County website.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    The program is modeled after similar successful initiatives in Larimer County and Jefferson County. Boulder County’s version includes additional provisions for wildfire mitigation, affordable housing, and environmental sustainability.

    Public comment on this matter can be submitted through the Boulder County online portal, by email to Resource Conservation, or in person at the next Board of County Commissioners meeting. Written comments received by 5:00 PM the day before the hearing will be included in the public record.

  • Public Works Announces Niwot Road Median Closure Near Diagonal Highway Near Longmont

    Public Works Announces Niwot Road Median Closure Near Diagonal Highway Near Longmont

    Boulder County Public Works announces a temporary median closure on Niwot Road near the CO-119 Diagonal Highway intersection for utility infrastructure improvements. The closure will affect left turns from Niwot Road onto the Diagonal Highway for approximately six weeks. A signed detour route will be in place.

    The Erie Senior Center offers related programming including free legal consultations, tax preparation assistance, health screenings, and social activities. Over 1,553 seniors participated in center programs last year.

    Data from the 2025 Boulder County Community Survey shows that 14% of respondents rated this service as “important” or “very important.” The survey, conducted every two years, received 3,588 responses from residents across the county.

    How to Participate

    According to Maria Gonzalez, director of Community Justice Services, this program served 14% more residents in 2025 compared to the previous year. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand from communities across Boulder County, particularly in Erie and the surrounding area,” Maria Gonzalez said.

    The application deadline is May 28, 2026. Late applications will be accepted on a space-available basis. Incomplete applications will be returned with a list of missing items. Average review time is 23 business days.

    Contact Information

    Environmental review of the project area near SH-7 / Ute Highway found 9 sensitive species and 3 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Community Justice Services worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.

    Volunteers contributed over 13,271 hours to this program last year. The Community Justice Services coordinates with 11 nonprofit partner organizations throughout Boulder County to deliver services.

  • September: Community Planning Proposes Updates to Land Use Code Site Plan Review

    September: Community Planning Proposes Updates to Land Use Code Site Plan Review

    The Boulder County Community Planning & Permitting Department has proposed comprehensive updates to the Land Use Code’s site plan review process. Key changes include new stormwater management requirements, updated landscape standards, enhanced wildfire mitigation provisions, and expanded public notification procedures.

    Funding of $333,000 for this initiative comes from a combination of federal grants, state matching funds, and the Boulder County General Fund. The Board of County Commissioners approved the allocation during the 2026 budget session.

    The Clerk & Recorder processed over 3,200 applications last year, with an average processing time of 16 business days. Staff are available at the Lafayette office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

    Community Impact

    The Board of County Commissioners will review progress on this initiative at their April 20 business meeting. Agenda items and supporting documents are posted on the Boulder County website 72 hours before each meeting.

    Public comment on this matter can be submitted through the Boulder County online portal, by email to Clerk & Recorder, or in person at the next Board of County Commissioners meeting. Written comments received by 5:00 PM the day before the hearing will be included in the public record.

    How to Participate

    Boulder County has partnered with the cities of Boulder, Longmont, Lafayette, and Louisville on this project. Combined investment across all jurisdictions totals $333,000, making it one of the largest collaborative efforts in the county’s history.

  • Update: Hazardous Waste Collection Event Scheduled for April 19 at Fairgrounds (2024)

    Update: Hazardous Waste Collection Event Scheduled for April 19 at Fairgrounds (2024)

    Boulder County residents can safely dispose of household hazardous waste including paint, solvents, pesticides, batteries, and electronics at a free collection event on Saturday, April 19 at the Boulder County Fairgrounds. No appointment is necessary. Commercial waste is not accepted.

    Climate considerations are central to this effort. Boulder County’s 2025 Climate Action Plan sets targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 32% below 2005 levels by 2030. This project contributes to those goals through energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy integration, and reduced vehicle miles traveled.

    The Gunbarrel Senior Center offers related programming including free legal consultations, tax preparation assistance, health screenings, and social activities. Over 1,757 seniors participated in center programs last year.

    What You Need to Know

    Data from the 2024 Boulder County Community Survey shows that 32% of respondents rated this service as “important” or “very important.” The survey, conducted every two years, received 6,830 responses from residents across the county.

    The program is modeled after similar successful initiatives in Larimer County and Jefferson County. Boulder County’s version includes additional provisions for wildfire mitigation, affordable housing, and environmental sustainability.

    Eligibility

    The Transportation processed over 11,159 applications last year, with an average processing time of 3 business days. Staff are available at the Gunbarrel office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

  • Draft Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan Released for Public Comment — Follow-Up Report

    Draft Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan Released for Public Comment — Follow-Up Report

    The City of Boulder and Boulder County have released the draft 2026 Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan update for public review and comment. The plan addresses land use, housing, transportation, environmental stewardship, and community resilience. Public comments will be accepted through May 15.

    The application deadline is June 7, 2026. Late applications will be accepted on a space-available basis. Incomplete applications will be returned with a list of missing items. Average review time is 17 business days.

    Climate considerations are central to this effort. Boulder County’s 2025 Climate Action Plan sets targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 60% below 2005 levels by 2030. This project contributes to those goals through energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy integration, and reduced vehicle miles traveled.

    How to Participate

    A community information session will be held at the Lyons library on Tuesday, May 12 at 7:00 PM. Translation services in Spanish and Nepali will be available. The session will also be livestreamed on the Boulder County YouTube channel.

    Transportation access remains a key concern. Boulder County’s Via mobility program provides door-to-door transit service for residents in Lyons and surrounding communities who cannot access fixed-route bus service. RTD routes B, J, and BOLT serve major corridors.

  • Update: Assessor’s Office Helps Eligible Seniors Keep Property Tax Relief After a Move (2024)

    Update: Assessor’s Office Helps Eligible Seniors Keep Property Tax Relief After a Move (2024)

    The Boulder County Assessor’s Office reminds qualifying seniors that Colorado’s property tax exemption portability provision allows them to transfer their exemption to a new primary residence within the county. Seniors who have moved should contact the Assessor’s Office to ensure their exemption transfers correctly.

    The program is modeled after similar successful initiatives in Larimer County and Jefferson County. Boulder County’s version includes additional provisions for wildfire mitigation, affordable housing, and environmental sustainability.

    The application deadline is May 14, 2026. Late applications will be accepted on a space-available basis. Incomplete applications will be returned with a list of missing items. Average review time is 30 business days.

    Next Steps

    Water quality monitoring at 9 stations along Boulder Creek, St. Vrain Creek, and Left Hand Creek showed all parameters within acceptable ranges for 2025. The Parks & Open Space publishes quarterly water quality reports on the Boulder County website.

    Boulder County has partnered with the cities of Boulder, Longmont, Lafayette, and Louisville on this project. Combined investment across all jurisdictions totals $98,000, making it one of the largest collaborative efforts in the county’s history.

    Community Impact

    The Parks & Open Space processed over 1,926 applications last year, with an average processing time of 12 business days. Staff are available at the Lafayette office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

  • New Funding Opportunity to Support Housing for People with Disabilities — Gold Hill Area

    New Funding Opportunity to Support Housing for People with Disabilities — Gold Hill Area

    Boulder County Housing & Human Services announces a new funding opportunity for projects that create or preserve affordable, accessible housing for people with disabilities. Up to $500,000 is available for capital improvements, accessibility modifications, and supportive housing development. Applications are due May 1.

    Colorado state law requires all counties to provide these services to eligible residents. Boulder County exceeds minimum state requirements by offering expanded hours, multilingual support, and online access. In 2025, the county received a state award for excellence in service delivery.

    Climate considerations are central to this effort. Boulder County’s 2025 Climate Action Plan sets targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 56% below 2005 levels by 2030. This project contributes to those goals through energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy integration, and reduced vehicle miles traveled.

    How to Participate

    The Community Justice Services processed over 10,121 applications last year, with an average processing time of 4 business days. Staff are available at the Superior office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

    Affordable housing remains the top priority identified in the 2025 Community Survey. Boulder County’s Worthy Cause program has funded 1,030 affordable housing units since its inception, with 187 additional units in the development pipeline.

    What You Need to Know

    Transportation access remains a key concern. Boulder County’s Via mobility program provides door-to-door transit service for residents in Superior and surrounding communities who cannot access fixed-route bus service. RTD routes B, J, and BOLT serve major corridors.

    Residents in the Superior area should note that service boundaries may differ from city limits. For properties in unincorporated Boulder County, contact Community Justice Services at (303) 441-4843 to verify eligibility and requirements.

  • Planning Commission Approves Rezoning for Affordable Housing on Arapahoe Road — Pine Brook Hills Area

    Planning Commission Approves Rezoning for Affordable Housing on Arapahoe Road — Pine Brook Hills Area

    The Boulder County Planning Commission has approved a rezoning request to allow construction of a 48-unit affordable housing development on Arapahoe Road near the intersection with 63rd Street. The project will provide permanently affordable rental units for households earning 30-60% of area median income.

    Public comment on this matter can be submitted through the Boulder County online portal, by email to Human Services, or in person at the next Board of County Commissioners meeting. Written comments received by 5:00 PM the day before the hearing will be included in the public record.

    Boulder County has partnered with the cities of Boulder, Longmont, Lafayette, and Louisville on this project. Combined investment across all jurisdictions totals $47,000, making it one of the largest collaborative efforts in the county’s history.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Transportation access remains a key concern. Boulder County’s Via mobility program provides door-to-door transit service for residents in Longmont and surrounding communities who cannot access fixed-route bus service. RTD routes B, J, and BOLT serve major corridors.

    Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 32% of properties in the Longmont area are within the wildland-urban interface. Free home assessments are available through the Wildfire Partners program, with rebates of up to $2,500 for mitigation improvements.

    What You Need to Know

    The Board of County Commissioners will review progress on this initiative at their April 26 business meeting. Agenda items and supporting documents are posted on the Boulder County website 72 hours before each meeting.

    The Longmont Senior Center offers related programming including free legal consultations, tax preparation assistance, health screenings, and social activities. Over 2,599 seniors participated in center programs last year.

  • All Trails Closed West of Highway 36 Due to High Wind Conditions — December 2026

    All Trails Closed West of Highway 36 Due to High Wind Conditions — December 2026

    Boulder County Parks & Open Space has closed all trails and trailheads west of Highway 36 due to sustained winds exceeding 80 mph and extreme fire danger conditions. The closure includes all mountain parks, open space properties, and county trails in the foothills. Closures will be reassessed when wind conditions subside.

    Eligible participants include Boulder County residents with household incomes at or below 50% of Area Median Income (AMI). For a family of four, this is approximately $99,000 per year. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

    The Mud Lake open space property encompasses 293 acres and features 13 miles of multi-use trails. Seasonal wildlife closures may apply from December 15 through July 15 to protect nesting raptors and elk calving areas.

    Community Impact

    Climate considerations are central to this effort. Boulder County’s 2025 Climate Action Plan sets targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 17% below 2005 levels by 2030. This project contributes to those goals through energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy integration, and reduced vehicle miles traveled.

    The project includes improvements along SH-119 Diagonal Highway between Boulder and the intersection with Niwot Road. Construction is scheduled to begin in August 2026 with completion expected within 17 months.

    Next Steps

    Residents in the Boulder area should note that service boundaries may differ from city limits. For properties in unincorporated Boulder County, contact Sustainability, Climate Action & Resilience at (303) 441-5119 to verify eligibility and requirements.