The revised code is a step toward meeting county climate goals
PITKIN COUNTY, COLO. (April 8, 2024) - On Sunday, April 28, 2024, an amendment to the Pitkin County Building Code that adopts an energy budget for exterior energy use goes into effect. The revised code, and a new code regarding electric ready provisions, will apply to any building permit application submitted on or after April 28.
The amendment follows a decision on March 13 by the Pitkin County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) to adopt an ordinance amending Title 11 (Buildings and Construction) of the Building Code, specifically amending Section 11.32 (2021 International Energy Conservation Code) and adding a new section, 11.34 (Electric Ready Provisions), to comply with state-mandated “electric-ready” provisions.
The decision is another step in utilizing the county’s land use and building codes to meet climate goals. Last year, the BOCC voted to reduce the maximum allowable floor area for development projects in unincorporated Pitkin County. Both decisions followed a set of recommendations from a citizen committee that were developed over a 10-month period.
“This is the tip of the iceberg of larger plans the county has to achieve our climate goals. Many challenging decisions lie ahead. We’re moving this effort forward in good faith and with knowledge of all the good work the Community Growth Advisory Committee did for us,” said Greg Poschman, chair of the BOCC.
Kelly McNicholas Kury, Pitkin County commissioner, echoed Poschman’s opinion. “This is a bold action we’re taking toward achieving our climate goals.”
The county has a goal to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 90 percent by 2050. Emissions from residential buildings are the largest contributor to GHG emissions in unincorporated Pitkin County, accounting for 47 percent of 2019 emissions.
The adopted 200 Million BTU (British Thermal Units)/year Exterior Energy Budget includes all exterior energy uses, including:
- In-Slab Snowmelt
- Outdoor Electric Heat Mats
- Outdoor Spas
- Outdoor Pools
- Heat Tape
- Outdoor Electric Heaters
- Outdoor Gas Fireplaces and Firepits
For questions regarding the energy code changes, contact codeupdates@pitkincounty.com.
Adjusting the Building Code is one of many steps the county is taking to address the effects of climate change. Other efforts, like increasing diversion at the landfill and emphasizing energy conservation on county buildings, are other tools being used to influence the transition to a clean economy and meet the 2050 climate target.
Media contact: Marci Suazo, communications manager for Pitkin County, marci.suazo@pitkincounty.com, (970) 309-2343