Project Description:

Rio Grande County hadn’t completed a comprehensive update to the Land Development Code (LDC) since the 1970s. Since that time, many amendments were made, however, the amendments weren’t always codified rendering the document riddled with conflicts, inconsistencies, and leaving staff unable to enforce the policies of the County. In 2018, the County was awarded Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) funds to update their LDC and we were chosen to assist them in updating it. The project kicked off with a confirmation meeting with staff and County Commissioners to confirm that tasks identified through the Code Assessment (completed in 2017) were still applicable and identifying community events to seek public input and participation.

The code update included updates to all major code sections. We have revamped the development review process to streamline and simplify the various application materials and requirements, we’ve updated the sign code to reflect the Gilbert v Reed Supreme Court decision, and we’ve updated all the use and dimensional standards by evaluating whether or not particular standards were appropriate in Rio Grande County.

While the County has a number of specific land use issues such as home based business, a large agricultural economy, and vast National Forest lands, the LDC strives to balance those uses with growth and development potential while giving staff the ability to clearly articulate and enforce the provisions of the LDC.

Understanding that the LDC is a living document and updates should be considered to ensure it remains relevant, CPS was retained to make targeted updates based on staff and stakeholder use of the LDC since it’s adoption. Additionally, the subsequent updates also added new provisions such as RV Park and Campground standards, Summitville Mine Overlay, and updates to a variety of provisions.