Marshall Fire-Affected HOA May Be First In Colorado To Allow Metal Fencing
A homeowner’s association (HOA) comprising 2,800 homes in Boulder County, Colorado may be the first association in Colorado to make the switch to fire-proof fencing as a replacement for the charming cedar fencing. This decision comes as a response to a destructive wildfire that ravaged the community in 2021, causing extensive damage to numerous homes. The lengthy 15-month process leading up to this decision has been deemed courageous by town leaders in Superior, Colorado. Survivors of the Marshall Fire have been anxiously awaiting the outcome of the vote. Rebuilding efforts are currently underway along the path of the devastating fire. While progress has been made in terms of frames, roofing, and landscaping, fencing has often been put on hold. On December 30, 2021, just before lunchtime, hurricane-force wind gusts ignited dry grasses, which quickly spread the flames to the wooden fences surrounding every home in Superior's Rock Creek subdivision. The HOA had mandated cedar fences 25 years ago, and to this day, all fences stand at a height of six feet, painted in the color "Cabot dune grey." The decision to explore non-combustible materials for fencing has caught the attention of other HOAs facing similar concerns. They are closely observing the outcome of this pioneering initiative to determine the potential benefits of transitioning to fire-proof materials. This HOA in Colorado serves as a trailblazer in considering metal fire-proof fencing to enhance the community's safety and resilience in the face of future fire risks. By re-evaluating their fencing requirements, they aim to mitigate the destructive impact of wildfires and protect the homes and residents of the Rock Creek subdivision.