Steamboat Springs Proposes Landscaping Code Updates

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The city of Steamboat Springs, Colorado is proposing updates to its landscaping regulations for commercial and multi-family properties. The goal is to improve water efficiency and enhance wildfire protection through modernized city standards.

Why it matters

As Western states grapple with ongoing drought conditions, municipalities are seeking ways to reduce water usage, especially in landscaping which can account for a significant portion of residential and commercial water consumption. Additionally, the threat of wildfires has increased in many regions, making fire-resistant landscaping a growing priority.

The details

The proposed updates, drafted by city planners with input from the community, would establish new requirements for commercial and multi-family developments around water-wise plant selection, irrigation systems, and defensible space to protect against wildfires. The changes aim to update Steamboat Springs' landscaping code to better align with modern water conservation and fire safety best practices.

• The city released details about the proposed landscaping code updates on April 3, 2026.

What’s next

The city will hold public hearings and gather community feedback on the proposed landscaping code updates before finalizing and implementing the new regulations.