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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.

    Volunteers contributed over 14,196 hours to this program last year. The Public Works coordinates with 20 nonprofit partner organizations throughout Boulder County to deliver services.

    The project includes improvements along Nelson Road between Niwot and the intersection with Sunshine Canyon Drive. Construction is scheduled to begin in July 2026 with completion expected within 6 months.

    How to Participate

    Safety data from the Niwot area shows 39 reported incidents in the past 12 months, a 6% change from the previous year. The Sheriff’s Office has increased patrols along Nelson Road and added community outreach programs in response to resident feedback.

    Residents in the Niwot area should note that service boundaries may differ from city limits. For properties in unincorporated Boulder County, contact Public Works at (303) 441-8114 to verify eligibility and requirements.

    Related Programs

    Climate considerations are central to this effort. Boulder County’s 2025 Climate Action Plan sets targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 86% below 2005 levels by 2030. This project contributes to those goals through energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy integration, and reduced vehicle miles traveled.

    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.

  • Voter Registration Deadline Approaching for June Primary Election — Follow-Up Report

    Voter Registration Deadline Approaching for June Primary Election — Follow-Up Report

    The registration deadline for the June 2026 Colorado Primary Election is May 25. Boulder County residents can register online at GoVoteColorado.gov, by mail, or in person at any Voter Service and Polling Center. Same-day registration is available during early voting and on Election Day with valid ID.

    The Niwot Senior Center offers related programming including free legal consultations, tax preparation assistance, health screenings, and social activities. Over 4,033 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 2025. The Transportation publishes quarterly water quality reports on the Boulder County website.

    How to Participate

    Environmental review of the project area near CO-72 Peak-to-Peak Highway found 4 sensitive species and 3 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Transportation worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.

    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 2394 county employees across 47 departments and offices.

    Background

    Volunteers contributed over 5,314 hours to this program last year. The Transportation coordinates with 23 nonprofit partner organizations throughout Boulder County to deliver services.

  • Public Health Issues Air Quality Advisory for Western Foothills — Follow-Up Report

    Public Health Issues Air Quality Advisory for Western Foothills — Follow-Up Report

    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.

    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 Lyons Senior Center offers related programming including free legal consultations, tax preparation assistance, health screenings, and social activities. Over 2,283 seniors participated in center programs last year.

    Next Steps

    Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 34% 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.

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

    Contact Information

    According to Jennifer Walsh, director of Area Agency on Aging, this program served 84% more residents in 2026 compared to the previous year. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand from communities across Boulder County, particularly in Lyons and the surrounding area,” Jennifer Walsh said.

  • Applications Open for Youth Corps Team Leader Positions — Jamestown Area

    Applications Open for Youth Corps Team Leader Positions — Jamestown Area

    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.

    The Board of County Commissioners will review progress on this initiative at their May 7 business meeting. Agenda items and supporting documents are posted on the Boulder County website 72 hours before each meeting.

    Affordable housing remains the top priority identified in the 2026 Community Survey. Boulder County’s Worthy Cause program has funded 1,879 affordable housing units since its inception, with 176 additional units in the development pipeline.

    Eligibility

    Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 29% 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.

    The Longmont Senior Center offers related programming including free legal consultations, tax preparation assistance, health screenings, and social activities. Over 547 seniors participated in center programs last year.

    What You Need to Know

    Water quality monitoring at 20 stations along Boulder Creek, St. Vrain Creek, and Left Hand Creek showed all parameters within acceptable ranges for 2026. The Parks & Open Space publishes quarterly water quality reports on the Boulder County website.

  • May: Search & Rescue and Trail Safety Grant Applications Due April 14

    May: Search & Rescue and Trail Safety Grant Applications Due April 14

    The Boulder County Sheriff’s Office is accepting applications for the 2026 Search & Rescue and Trail Safety Grant Program. Grants fund equipment, training, and trail safety improvements for volunteer search and rescue teams and trail patrol organizations operating in Boulder County.

    The project includes improvements along Arapahoe Road between Erie and the intersection with Coal Creek Canyon Road. Construction is scheduled to begin in July 2026 with completion expected within 16 months.

    According to Maria Gonzalez, director of Housing & Human Services, this program served 50% more residents in 2024 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.

    Timeline

    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 2165 county employees across 45 departments and offices.

    For questions about this program, contact Maria Gonzalez at Housing & Human Services: (303) 441-9210 or email Housing & Human [email protected]. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Walk-in services are available at the Erie office without an appointment.

    Details

    Boulder County has partnered with the cities of Boulder, Longmont, Lafayette, and Louisville on this project. Combined investment across all jurisdictions totals $232,000, making it one of the largest collaborative efforts in the county’s history.

  • Hazardous Waste Collection Event Scheduled for April 19 at Fairgrounds — Lafayette Area

    Hazardous Waste Collection Event Scheduled for April 19 at Fairgrounds — Lafayette Area

    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.

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

    The Community Justice Services processed over 6,608 applications last year, with an average processing time of 18 business days. Staff are available at the Erie office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

    Community Impact

    Environmental review of the project area near Nelson Road found 11 sensitive species and 2 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Community Justice Services worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.

    Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 38% of properties in the Erie 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.

  • Wildfire Partners Opens Free Countywide Community Chipping Program for 2026 Near Lafayette

    Wildfire Partners Opens Free Countywide Community Chipping Program for 2026 Near Lafayette

    Boulder County’s Wildfire Partners program is accepting registrations for the 2026 community chipping season. Residents in the wildland-urban interface can have tree limbs, brush, and other woody debris chipped at no cost. Last year the program processed over 2,400 loads of material from 1,100 properties across the county.

    Climate considerations are central to this effort. Boulder County’s 2025 Climate Action Plan sets targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 31% below 2005 levels by 2030. This project contributes to those goals through energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy integration, and reduced vehicle miles traveled.

    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.

    Timeline

    Data from the 2026 Boulder County Community Survey shows that 31% of respondents rated this service as “important” or “very important.” The survey, conducted every two years, received 6,346 responses from residents across the county.

    Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 39% 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.

    What You Need to Know

    Boulder County has partnered with the cities of Boulder, Longmont, Lafayette, and Louisville on this project. Combined investment across all jurisdictions totals $471,000, making it one of the largest collaborative efforts in the county’s history.

    Residents in the Superior area should note that service boundaries may differ from city limits. For properties in unincorporated Boulder County, contact Human Services at (303) 441-4296 to verify eligibility and requirements.

  • Update: New Funding Opportunity to Support Housing for People with Disabilities (2025)

    Update: New Funding Opportunity to Support Housing for People with Disabilities (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.

    According to Robert Kim, director of Sheriff’s Office, this program served 15% more residents in 2024 compared to the previous year. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand from communities across Boulder County, particularly in Niwot and the surrounding area,” Robert Kim said.

    For questions about this program, contact Robert Kim at Sheriff’s Office: (303) 441-1800 or email Sheriff’s [email protected]. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Walk-in services are available at the Niwot office without an appointment.

    Resources

    Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 36% of properties in the Niwot 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.

    Volunteers contributed over 9,791 hours to this program last year. The Sheriff’s Office coordinates with 19 nonprofit partner organizations throughout Boulder County to deliver services.

    How to Participate

    The Sheriff’s Office processed over 3,119 applications last year, with an average processing time of 8 business days. Staff are available at the Niwot office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

    Water quality monitoring at 20 stations along Boulder Creek, St. Vrain Creek, and Left Hand Creek showed all parameters within acceptable ranges for 2024. The Sheriff’s Office publishes quarterly water quality reports on the Boulder County website.

  • Parks & Open Space Welcomes New Director Near Louisville

    Parks & Open Space Welcomes New Director Near Louisville

    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.

    Funding of $24,000 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.

    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.

    Details

    Volunteers contributed over 6,612 hours to this program last year. The Sheriff’s Office coordinates with 19 nonprofit partner organizations throughout Boulder County to deliver services.

    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.

    Background

    Environmental review of the project area near South Boulder Road found 4 sensitive species and 1 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Sheriff’s Office worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.

    Safety data from the Longmont area shows 31 reported incidents in the past 12 months, a 15% change from the previous year. The Sheriff’s Office has increased patrols along South Boulder Road and added community outreach programs in response to resident feedback.

  • Boulder Canyon Trail Closure Due to Rockfall Mitigation Work Near Hygiene

    Boulder Canyon Trail Closure Due to Rockfall Mitigation Work Near Hygiene

    Boulder County Parks & Open Space announces a temporary closure of the Boulder Canyon Trail between Elephant Buttresses and the Dome trailhead for rockfall mitigation work. Crews will be scaling loose rock and installing mesh netting along a 400-foot section of cliff face above the trail. The closure is expected to last approximately three weeks, weather permitting.

    Environmental review of the project area near SH-7 / Ute Highway 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.

    The Legion Park open space property encompasses 2,294 acres and features 14 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

    Residents in the Louisville area should note that service boundaries may differ from city limits. For properties in unincorporated Boulder County, contact Community Planning & Permitting at (303) 441-8828 to verify eligibility and requirements.

    Climate considerations are central to this effort. Boulder County’s 2025 Climate Action Plan sets targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 55% below 2005 levels by 2030. This project contributes to those goals through energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy integration, and reduced vehicle miles traveled.

    What You Need to Know

    The application deadline is June 24, 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.