Colorado is preparing for significant changes to its building regulations that will take effect in 2026, marking a major step toward more climate-friendly construction across the state. These updates to Colorado building codes are designed to reduce energy consumption, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and prepare new homes and commercial buildings for a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.
Beginning July 1, 2026, the Model Low Energy and Carbon Code will serve as the statewide minimum standard that local jurisdictions must adopt whenever they update their own building codes. This shift represents a long-term effort to align building practices with Colorado’s climate goals while still addressing concerns about cost and affordability.
At its core, the new code reflects Colorado’s recognition that buildings play a substantial role in climate change. Residential and commercial structures account for nearly 10% of the state’s greenhouse gas emissions, making energy use in buildings a key target for statewide reduction efforts.
By redefining baseline expectations for building performance, the updated Colorado building codes aim to improve energy efficiency, support electrification, and reduce overall carbon output in new construction projects statewide.
What the New Building Codes Will Require
The Model Low Energy and Carbon Code that becomes mandatory in 2026 is based on the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)—a model code updated every three years. Colorado’s version includes state-specific amendments that place a stronger emphasis on efficiency, reduced emissions, and readiness for clean energy technologies. This code does not simply adopt the baseline IECC standards; it modifies them to fit Colorado’s unique climate, construction practices, and policy goals.
Under the updated Colorado building codes, new homes and offices must meet specific energy performance targets that vary based on size and use. For residential construction, homes under 5,000 square feet must comply with baseline efficiency requirements that improve insulation, airtightness, and building envelope performance.
Larger homes, particularly those over 7,500 square feet, face the most stringent standards and are required to achieve “net zero” energy status—meaning they must generate as much energy on-site (or procure equivalent renewable energy off-site) as they consume annually. This tiered system ensures that larger, more energy-intensive buildings adopt stronger efficiency measures to help reduce their overall climate impact.
In addition to energy performance targets, the new Colorado building codes mandate that new construction be “electric-ready” and “solar-ready.” This means buildings must be pre-wired for electric vehicle charging, solar photovoltaic systems, and high-efficiency electric appliances. These provisions are aimed at making it easier and more cost-effective to install clean energy systems in the future without costly retrofits.
Encouraging Electrification and Efficient Systems
A major theme of the updated building standards is electrification. While natural gas systems are not banned outright, the codes level the playing field by requiring all buildings, whether they use gas, electricity, or a mix, to meet the same energy performance goals.
This creates a competitive environment where electric technologies like heat pumps (which provide both heating and cooling through efficient electric mechanisms) can thrive alongside traditional systems.
Heat pumps are highlighted in the new Colorado building codes because they typically use less energy than conventional furnaces and air conditioners, particularly when paired with clean electricity. Other electric-ready system requirements help future-proof buildings by anticipating the transition to more sustainable energy sources, including solar power and battery storage.
As more regions adopt carbon-free electricity, buildings constructed under the new codes will be better positioned to take advantage of cleaner power and deliver long-term savings on energy bills.
Implications For Builders and Developers
The 2026 updates to Colorado building codes represent a significant shift for builders, developers, and architects. As these codes become the minimum standard across jurisdictions, project planning and design will need to incorporate higher performance standards from the earliest stages. Builders will need to pay closer attention to insulation levels, advanced HVAC systems, renewable energy integration, and electric readiness.
Architects and engineers will likely increase the use of energy modeling tools to ensure designs meet or exceed the new code’s performance thresholds. This could involve selecting materials with superior thermal performance, optimizing building orientation and window placement, and integrating solar technologies in a cost-effective manner.
While these changes may result in higher upfront design and construction costs, proponents argue that long-term savings through reduced utility bills and increased durability will benefit occupants and building owners alike.
At the same time, some builders have raised concerns about the potential impact of tighter building codes on housing affordability. Stricter requirements—especially those affecting larger or luxury homes—can increase construction costs, which could be passed on to homeowners.
However, Colorado policymakers and energy advocates emphasize that improved efficiency and lower energy costs over time can help offset these initial expenses, particularly for smaller homes and commercial buildings where the most stringent rules are less severe.
Benefits for Colorado Residents and Businesses
The broader goal of the updated Colorado building codes is to improve energy efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and enhance comfort and resilience for occupants. Buildings constructed under the new standards will benefit from better indoor air quality due to improved sealing and ventilation standards. Reduced energy consumption also translates to lower utility bills, a significant benefit in a state where both electricity and heating costs can be high.
Additionally, the new codes are designed to help buildings withstand extreme temperatures, an increasingly important consideration as Colorado experiences more frequent climate-related weather extremes. Better insulated and airtight buildings maintain consistent indoor temperatures more effectively, enhancing comfort in both winter and summer conditions.
Preparing for the 2026 Code Rollout
As the July 1, 2026 deadline approaches, local governments, builders, and design professionals are beginning to adapt their practices to align with the updated Colorado building codes. For jurisdictions that haven’t yet updated their local codes, the new state minimum will mandate adoption upon the next update, ensuring a statewide shift toward greater efficiency and lower emissions.
Builders and developers are encouraged to stay informed about the changes and invest in training, tools, and partnerships that support compliance. The Colorado Energy Office and other state agencies are providing resources to assist with code implementation, including training and technical assistance. By embracing these standards early, Colorado’s construction industry can lead the way in creating buildings that are cost-efficient, sustainable, and resilient.
The 2026 update to Colorado building codes marks a pivotal moment in the state’s climate and construction policy. With stronger energy performance standards, a push toward electrification, and a future-focused approach to building design, Colorado is setting a new precedent for sustainable development.
Builders, designers, and building owners alike will play crucial roles in this transition, helping to shape a built environment that is more efficient, healthier, and aligned with long-term climate goals.