Department of Community Development
Reference: Electric Vehicle Regulations in the Land Use & Development Code—Article 4 (Study Session)
To: Mayor Gregory Mills and Members of City Council
Through: Michael P. Martinez, City Manager
Prepared By: Traci McLean, Sustainability Coordinator
Kim Bauer, Associate Planner
Date Prepared: October 28, 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 Commission feedback prior to preparation of a draft ordinance for future consideration.
PROCESS
Amendments to the LUDC may be initiated by the City Council, Planning Commission, and staff on behalf of these entities, as outlined in the LUDC.
The City Council should use the review criteria outlined in Section 2.10 B. when evaluating changes to the LUDC. Generally, amendments should do the following:
Further the purposes of the LUDC;
Be in accordance with the Comprehensive Plan;
Promote the public safety, health, and general welfare of the community; and
Improve the effectiveness and efficiency of administering the LUDC.
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 pr...
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