Departments of Budget and Innovation and Community Development
Reference: Colorado Electric Vehicle Charging Model Land Use Code
To: Mayor Gregory Mills and Members of City Council
Through: Michael Martinez, City Manager
Prepared By: Traci McLean, Sustainability Coordinator
Date Prepared: July 14, 2026
PURPOSE
The purpose of this study session is to provide City Council with an overview of the proposed amendments to the Land Use and Development Code (LUDC) related to the Colorado Electric Vehicle Charging Model Land Use Code and receive Council feedback prior to preparation of a draft ordinance for future consideration.
BACKGROUND
In 2024, the Colorado General Assembly adopted House Bill (HB) 24-1173, which established a statewide framework for local governments to modernize land use regulations related to electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. The legislation requires jurisdictions to either adopt the Colorado Electric Vehicle Charging Model Land Use Code, adopt substantially equivalent local standards, or formally opt out through a public process. The legislation is intended to create clearer, more predictable permitting processes for EV charging infrastructure while allowing local governments to retain authority over land use decisions.
Following adoption of HB24-1173, the Colorado Energy Office, in partnership with local governments, planning professionals, utilities, industry representatives, and other stakeholders, developed the Colorado Electric Vehicle Charging Model Land Use Code. Staff evaluated the compliance options available under the legislation and is recommending adoption of the model code to integrate it into Brighton's existing Land Use and Development Code. This approach provides a comprehensive framework that aligns with the City's current development review processes while avoiding the additional staff time and legal review that would be required to develop substantially equivalent local regulations.
The proposed amendments are intended to clarify how EV charging infrastructure is reviewed and permitted within Brighton rather than substantially changing the City's existing development standards. The amendments establish EV charging as a recognized land use within the LUDC, clarify review procedures for accessory and primary EV charging facilities, establish objective design and operational standards, update parking and accessibility requirements, integrate EV charging equipment into the City's existing landscaping and lighting standards, and add standardized definitions for EV charging equipment and charging levels.
The proposed amendments continue to rely on Brighton's existing development standards for landscaping, lighting, parking, signage, site design, and development review. The amendments also maintain local flexibility by allowing administrative approval of certain alternative design solutions where appropriate. Together, these updates create a more predictable permitting process for applicants, reduce ambiguity during development review, and support future investment in EV charging infrastructure while preserving local control over zoning and development decisions.
Staff believes adoption of the Colorado Electric Vehicle Charging Model Land Use Code represents the most efficient approach to complying with HB24-1173. The proposed amendments build upon Brighton's existing Land Use and Development Code, provide greater certainty for applicants and staff, support implementation of the City's Sustainability Plan, and position Brighton to accommodate future transportation infrastructure needs as electric vehicle adoption continues to grow.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that City Council provide feedback on the proposed Land Use and Development Code amendments and provide direction to staff prior to preparation of a draft ordinance for future Council consideration.
ATTACHMENTS
• July 14, 2026 Council Study Session Presentation: Colorado Electric Vehicle Charging Model Land Use Code
• Copy of the Colorado Electric Vehicle Charging Model Land Use Code