City launches public process to update Denver Energy Code

Published on February 26, 2026

DENVER-Community Planning and Development (CPD), in partnership with the Office of Climate Action, Sustainability and Resiliency (CASR), has begun the process to update the Denver Energy Code, which governs building energy use and sets local standards for efficiency in new and renovated buildings in Denver. The project will ensure Denver's rules align with state and international industry standards and best practices, provide clear guidance for builders, consider cost impacts, reflect Denver's specific context, and advance the city's climate goals.

"Code updates like this one keep our rules and regulations modern, responsive and effective," said CPD Executive Director Brad Buchanan. "CPD will work closely with CASR and our partners in the community so that this strengthens Denver's approach to energy use in our built environment and bring us closer to achieving our climate goals as a city."

"Updating the Denver Energy Code is one of the most effective steps we can take to cut carbon pollution and lower energy costs for Denver residents," said CASR Executive Director Elizabeth Babcock. "Because energy use in buildings is the largest source of Denver's greenhouse gas emissions, improving efficiency in new construction improves air quality, strengthens community health, and saves people money on their energy bills. This update keeps Denver on a responsible path toward our climate commitments while ensuring the homes and workplaces we build today remain affordable and resilient for decades."

As with previous updates to city building and fire codes, the process will involve input and participation from community stakeholders and subject matter experts representing a diverse range of perspectives and areas of expertise. The public process to update the Denver Energy Code starts this month with the recruitment of stakeholder committees and technical subcommittees that will support the process, focusing on residential (single-unit, duplex and townhome) and commercial construction. The project will continue into early 2027. Community stakeholders and subject matter experts can get involved now by:

• Applying to join a committee or subcommittee
• Signing up for project updates

About the Denver Energy Code

The updated Denver Energy Code will consist of local amendments to the Colorado Model Low Energy and Carbon Code (LECC), with amendments carried forward from the 2025 Denver Energy Code. The LECC is based on the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) 2024/ASHRAE 90.1-2022. The code update process will consider potential amendments to the state code that would apply locally. Selected members of the residential and commercial committees will review and vote on amendment proposals. The final draft of the updated code will be voted on by City Council in 2027.

As Denver continues to work towards the goal of zero carbon emissions for new buildings by 2030 and all buildings by 2040, the public process to update the energy code will identify intermediate steps to support buildings that focus on these pillars:

• Highly efficient
• All-electric
• Grid resilient and responsive
• Powered by systemwide renewable energy

Additional information and more ways to participate as the project moves forward will be posted on the project website, which is available at DenverGov.org/energycode.

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BUILDING COMMUNITY: Denver Community Planning and Development (CPD) is responsible for visionary city planning and ensuring safe, responsible, sustainable building. We're working hard to make Denver a great place to live, work and play! Visit DenverGov.org/CPD.

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