What Buyers Should Know About Colorado’s Wildfire Zones
With its rugged beauty, thick forests, and sweeping mountain vistas, Colorado is an outdoor lover’s dream. But that same natural beauty also brings one unavoidable reality—wildfire risk. If you're buying property in the foothills, mountains, or even parts of the Front Range, understanding wildfire zones isn’t just a good idea—it’s essential.
Here’s what every buyer should know before purchasing in a wildfire-prone area—and how to protect your investment from the ground up.
1. What Is a Wildfire Zone, Exactly?
Wildfire zones are areas where vegetation, terrain, and weather conditions make the risk of fire significantly higher. In Colorado, wildfire-prone areas are most common in:
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Jefferson, Park, Clear Creek, and Gilpin Counties
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Foothill communities like Evergreen, Conifer, and Bailey
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Woodland Park and other parts of the Western Slope
🔥 These zones are identified using local wildfire hazard maps and WUI (Wildland-Urban Interface) data.
2. What You’re Required to Do as a Buyer
Most counties now require additional disclosures and documentation when buying in wildfire-prone areas.
📋 Here’s what to expect:
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Wildfire Risk Disclosure forms
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Mandatory fire mitigation requirements (either at sale or post-closing)
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HOA or county regulations about defensible space, roofing, and vegetation
Pro Tip: Ask your agent (👋 that’s us) if the property has passed recent inspections or received fire mitigation certification.
3. Insurance Can Be a Challenge
Wildfire zones = increased insurance scrutiny. Some large carriers have already limited or capped policies in high-risk areas.
🛡️ To stay covered:
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Begin shopping quotes as soon as you're under contract
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Work with brokers who know how to navigate wildfire regions
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Complete basic fire mitigation work (clearing brush, trimming trees, etc.) before applying
Moxie clients receive access to our exclusive list of insurers who regularly write policies in mountain zones.
4. Fire Mitigation Isn’t Optional—It’s Protection
Colorado counties and fire districts now heavily encourage (or require) homeowners to implement defensible space practices around the home.
To reduce risk:
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Create a 30-foot buffer around the home by clearing brush and dry vegetation
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Trim tree limbs at least 6–10 feet from the ground
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Store firewood away from the structure
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Use fire-resistant materials on decks and roofs when possible
Some improvements may even help reduce insurance premiums or qualify for rebates.
5. Don’t Let Wildfire Risk Deter You—Just Be Informed
We’ve helped hundreds of buyers purchase safely and smartly in wildfire zones. The key isn’t to avoid these areas altogether—it’s to:
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Understand the real risks
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Be proactive with fireproofing
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Work with a team that understands local codes and fire district rules
🏔️ Many of Colorado’s most beautiful properties are in wildfire zones—but they’re also where you’ll find peace, privacy, and some of the best mountain living in the state.
Smart Buyers Protect What Matters
Buying in a wildfire zone doesn’t have to be scary—it just requires planning. At Moxie Property Group, we help you navigate the risks with clarity, confidence, and a full wildfire-ready strategy.
📞 Contact Us
🏡 Moxie Property Group
📞 (303) 578-1220
💻 [email protected]
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