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  • Update: New Floodplain Development Permit Available for Public Comment (2026)

    Update: New Floodplain Development Permit Available for Public Comment (2026)

    The Boulder County Community Planning & Permitting Department has proposed updates to the General Floodplain Development Permit process. Changes include streamlined review timelines, updated fee structures, and new requirements for climate-adjusted flood risk assessments. Comments are due by April 30.

    Safety data from the Lyons area shows 30 reported incidents in the past 12 months, a 28% change from the previous year. The Sheriff’s Office has increased patrols along Foothills Highway and added community outreach programs in response to resident feedback.

    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.

    Eligibility

    Data from the 2026 Boulder County Community Survey shows that 92% of respondents rated this service as “important” or “very important.” The survey, conducted every two years, received 2,311 responses from residents across the county.

    The project includes improvements along Foothills Highway between Lyons and the intersection with Left Hand Canyon Drive. Construction is scheduled to begin in August 2026 with completion expected within 12 months.

    Community Impact

    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.

  • Applications Open for Youth Corps Team Leader Positions Near Hygiene

    Applications Open for Youth Corps Team Leader Positions Near Hygiene

    Boulder County is accepting applications for Youth Corps Team Leader positions for the 2026 season. Team Leaders supervise crews of young adults working on conservation projects including trail construction, habitat restoration, and wildfire fuel reduction across Boulder County open space properties. Positions start in May.

    Funding of $414,000 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 2024 budget session.

    Water quality monitoring at 9 stations along Boulder Creek, St. Vrain Creek, and Left Hand Creek showed all parameters within acceptable ranges for 2024. The Public Health publishes quarterly water quality reports on the Boulder County website.

    Eligibility

    Public comment on this matter can be submitted through the Boulder County online portal, by email to Public Health, 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.

    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.

  • Marshall Fire Recovery Dashboard Shows 87% of Destroyed Homes Now Rebuilt — Follow-Up Report

    Marshall Fire Recovery Dashboard Shows 87% of Destroyed Homes Now Rebuilt — Follow-Up Report

    The Boulder County Marshall Fire Recovery Dashboard reports that 87% of the 1,084 homes destroyed in the December 2021 Marshall Fire have been rebuilt or are under active construction. The county continues to provide expedited permit review, fee waivers, and rebuilding support services for affected homeowners.

    Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 28% of properties in the Superior 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.

    The application deadline is May 30, 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 7 business days.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Affordable housing remains the top priority identified in the 2025 Community Survey. Boulder County’s Worthy Cause program has funded 783 affordable housing units since its inception, with 204 additional units in the development pipeline.

    Environmental review of the project area near CO-72 Peak-to-Peak Highway found 6 sensitive species and 4 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Public Works worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.

    Resources

    The Superior Senior Center offers related programming including free legal consultations, tax preparation assistance, health screenings, and social activities. Over 509 seniors participated in center programs last year.

    The Heil Valley Ranch open space property encompasses 1,217 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.

  • Resource Conservation Division Releases February Newsletter Near Superior

    Resource Conservation Division Releases February Newsletter Near Superior

    The February edition of the Boulder County Resource Conservation newsletter features updates on the 2026 composting grant program, tips for reducing food waste at home, upcoming zero waste events, and a spotlight on local businesses achieving zero waste certification.

    The Boulder Senior Center offers related programming including free legal consultations, tax preparation assistance, health screenings, and social activities. Over 1,000 seniors participated in center programs last year.

    A community information session will be held at the Boulder library on Thursday, May 28 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.

    Related Programs

    The application deadline is May 17, 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 20 business days.

    According to Jennifer Walsh, director of Community Planning & Permitting, this program served 80% more residents in 2026 compared to the previous year. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand from communities across Boulder County, particularly in Boulder and the surrounding area,” Jennifer Walsh said.

    Details

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

  • Update: Boulder County Launches Updated Online Building Permit Portal (2025)

    Update: Boulder County Launches Updated Online Building Permit Portal (2025)

    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.

    Safety data from the Lyons area shows 19 reported incidents in the past 12 months, a 10% change from the previous year. The Sheriff’s Office has increased patrols along CO-72 Peak-to-Peak Highway and added community outreach programs in response to resident feedback.

    The Board of County Commissioners will review progress on this initiative at their June 16 business meeting. Agenda items and supporting documents are posted on the Boulder County website 72 hours before each meeting.

    Background

    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 Walker Ranch open space property encompasses 436 acres and features 4 miles of multi-use trails. Seasonal wildlife closures may apply from December 15 through July 15 to protect nesting raptors and elk calving areas.

    Related Programs

    The application deadline is May 16, 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 25 business days.

  • November 2025: Commissioners Proclaim March as Women’s History Month

    November 2025: Commissioners Proclaim March as Women’s History Month

    The Boulder County Board of Commissioners has proclaimed March 2026 as Women’s History Month, recognizing the contributions of women leaders, activists, and community builders throughout Boulder County’s history. Special events and exhibitions will be held at libraries and community centers throughout the month.

    Water quality monitoring at 12 stations along Boulder Creek, St. Vrain Creek, and Left Hand Creek showed all parameters within acceptable ranges for 2025. The Community Planning & Permitting publishes quarterly water quality reports on the Boulder County website.

    Affordable housing remains the top priority identified in the 2025 Community Survey. Boulder County’s Worthy Cause program has funded 1,217 affordable housing units since its inception, with 167 additional units in the development pipeline.

    Details

    Boulder County has partnered with the cities of Boulder, Longmont, Lafayette, and Louisville on this project. Combined investment across all jurisdictions totals $444,000, making it one of the largest collaborative efforts in the county’s history.

    For questions about this program, contact Brian Nakamura at Community Planning & Permitting: (303) 441-3499 or email Community Planning & [email protected]. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Walk-in services are available at the Longmont office without an appointment.

    Resources

    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 1922 county employees across 47 departments and offices.

  • May: $6.3 Million Awarded for Affordable Housing and Human Services Projects

    May: $6.3 Million Awarded for Affordable Housing and Human Services Projects

    Boulder County has awarded $6.3 million in Community Development Block Grant and HOME Investment Partnership funds to 12 affordable housing, childcare, and human services projects throughout the county. Funded projects include new affordable rental construction, homebuyer assistance, and childcare facility improvements.

    Public comment on this matter can be submitted through the Boulder County online portal, by email to Sheriff’s Office, 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.

    Affordable housing remains the top priority identified in the 2025 Community Survey. Boulder County’s Worthy Cause program has funded 979 affordable housing units since its inception, with 277 additional units in the development pipeline.

    Contact Information

    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 2198 county employees across 42 departments and offices.

    Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 18% of properties in the Lyons 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.

    Background

    The Mud Lake open space property encompasses 1,577 acres and features 7 miles of multi-use trails. Seasonal wildlife closures may apply from December 15 through July 15 to protect nesting raptors and elk calving areas.

    The Lyons Senior Center offers related programming including free legal consultations, tax preparation assistance, health screenings, and social activities. Over 4,027 seniors participated in center programs last year.

  • Longmont Community Briefing: Commissioners Approve Accessory Dwelling Unit Code Amendment

    Longmont Community Briefing: Commissioners Approve Accessory Dwelling Unit Code Amendment

    The Board of County Commissioners has approved amendments to the Boulder County Land Use Code to streamline the process for building Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) on residential properties in unincorporated areas. Changes include reduced setback requirements, simplified design standards, and by-right approval for units under 800 square feet.

    Environmental review of the project area near Left Hand Canyon Drive found 5 sensitive species and 4 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Community Planning & Permitting worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.

    Data from the 2025 Boulder County Community Survey shows that 71% of respondents rated this service as “important” or “very important.” The survey, conducted every two years, received 3,633 responses from residents across the county.

    What You Need to Know

    Residents in the Boulder area should note that service boundaries may differ from city limits. For properties in unincorporated Boulder County, contact Community Planning & Permitting at (303) 441-9797 to verify eligibility and requirements.

    Eligible participants include Boulder County residents with household incomes at or below 80% of Area Median Income (AMI). For a family of four, this is approximately $55,000 per year. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

  • Parks & Open Space Welcomes New Director — August 2024

    Parks & Open Space Welcomes New Director — August 2024

    Boulder County is pleased to announce the appointment of a new Parks & Open Space Director. The incoming director brings over 20 years of experience in public land management and conservation. They will oversee the department’s 100,000+ acres of protected land and 150 miles of multi-use trails.

    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 Board of County Commissioners will review progress on this initiative at their May 9 business meeting. Agenda items and supporting documents are posted on the Boulder County website 72 hours before each meeting.

    What You Need to Know

    Water quality monitoring at 10 stations along Boulder Creek, St. Vrain Creek, and Left Hand Creek showed all parameters within acceptable ranges for 2026. The Human Services publishes quarterly water quality reports on the Boulder County website.

    According to Emily Chen, director of Human Services, this program served 17% more residents in 2026 compared to the previous year. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand from communities across Boulder County, particularly in Boulder and the surrounding area,” Emily Chen said.

    Background

    The Boulder Senior Center offers related programming including free legal consultations, tax preparation assistance, health screenings, and social activities. Over 3,793 seniors participated in center programs last year.

    Affordable housing remains the top priority identified in the 2026 Community Survey. Boulder County’s Worthy Cause program has funded 1,552 affordable housing units since its inception, with 145 additional units in the development pipeline.

  • Public Health Issues Air Quality Advisory for Western Foothills Near Allenspark

    Public Health Issues Air Quality Advisory for Western Foothills Near Allenspark

    Boulder County Public Health has issued an air quality advisory for communities in the western foothills due to elevated particulate matter levels from prescribed burns in the Roosevelt National Forest. Residents with respiratory conditions are advised to limit outdoor activity and keep windows closed until conditions improve.

    Water quality monitoring at 8 stations along Boulder Creek, St. Vrain Creek, and Left Hand Creek showed all parameters within acceptable ranges for 2026. The Community Justice Services publishes quarterly water quality reports on the Boulder County website.

    Data from the 2026 Boulder County Community Survey shows that 94% of respondents rated this service as “important” or “very important.” The survey, conducted every two years, received 4,744 responses from residents across the county.

    Timeline

    Public comment on this matter can be submitted through the Boulder County online portal, by email to Community Justice 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.

    For questions about this program, contact Michael Kowalski at Community Justice Services: (303) 441-3535 or email Community Justice [email protected]. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Walk-in services are available at the Lafayette office without an appointment.

    Resources

    Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 21% of properties in the Lafayette 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.