City of Boulder, CO

08/09/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 08/09/2024 15:17

City of Boulder Revises Emergency Rule to Allow Welding – Previously It Had Been Temporarily Banned

On Aug.1, the city announced an emergency rule that imposes tighter restrictions on fire causing behavior within the community. The emergency rule complemented the existing, year-round, fire restrictions that Boulder is already under by adding additional precautions in the hope of preventing behavior that might cause wildfire.

In an effort to continue to allow our automotive and construction businesses in the city to continue to do business (and for community members to have projects completed in a timely manner), a few adjustments have been made to the emergency rule - effective immediately. The biggest change is that welding and hot work are now permitted in certain areas that are low risk for wildfire creation.

Below is the changed rule:

Welding or operating acetylene or other torch with open flame, soldering/brazing; or ocy-fuel cutting except in an enclosed building or in an area at least 10 feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials, or in a location within the city where a Hot Work operational permit has been issued by Boulder Fire Rescue.

Boulder, and the community at large, greatly appreciates those who are working diligently to avoid fire starting behavior.