The Rental Property Improvement Grant is open until February 28th! Funding up to $7,000 per unit is available for repairs and improvements that support climate resilience and energy efficiency. 

Funds are limited. More information is available at www.fortcollins.gov/Services/Housing/Rental-Housing 

Join us to learn what's new with rental housing minimum standards for 2026 – and discover how to go beyond the basics with a good, better, best approach. Plus, connect one-on-one with experts from Efficiency Works and Healthy Homes to discuss radon awareness, grants, rebates, and more. 

February 11 | 4–5 PM | Virtual – Registration link coming soon to our website. 

February 20 | In-Person – 222 Laporte Avenue, Colorado River Room (1st floor). More details coming soon! 

 We hope you can join us! 

What is the building code update? 

Every three years the International Code Council (ICC) releases updated codes to ensure that building codes are updated to keep up with changing building techniques and technology.  Fort Collins then reviews these changes alongside experts, and makes amendments to our local codes.   

What is changing?

The City has adopted two amendments to the International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC).  Property owners and managers should be aware of the following: 

• Insect Screens: Insect screens are required on every window and door used for required ventilation. 

• Heating Requirements: Heat shall be supplied and be able to maintain a minimum temperature of 68°F (20°C) in all habitable rooms, bathrooms and toilet rooms. 

• Emergency Escape and Rescue Openings: Required emergency escape and rescue opening shall be maintained in accordance with the code in effect at the time of construction or shall provide a minimum net clear opening of no less than 720 square inches, whichever is greater and shall not have a sill height greater than forty-eight inches measured above the interior floor 

  • Note: This requirement did not change; however, the language in our Rental Minimum Requirements has been expanded to more clearly explain the existing amendment to IPMC provisions. 

These new codes will take effect April 1st, 2026.  

If you have building code related questions, please contact Austin Dyer (Lead Rental Inspector) or Fort Collins Building Services.   

Radon is a colorless, odorless, and naturally occurring gas that is the second leading cause of lung cancer. 

Radon gas enters homes and other buildings through cracks and openings in basements, crawl spaces, and slabs. Colorado homes are at a higher risk for radon. 

  Testing the radon levels in your home is simple and inexpensive. Here are a few options: 

• Purchase a radon test kit. The City of Fort Collins sells discounted short-term ($6) and long-term ($20) kits for you to test your own home. These kits are available at the Fort Collins Senior Center, located at 1200 Raintree Dr. 

• Be one of the first 100 people to receive a free short-term kit at the Fort Collins Senior Center during the month of January. 

• Sign up for a free Healthy Homes assessment. 

  If your home has high radon levels: 

• Homeowners: Hire a professional. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment provides links to contractors that are certified by the National Radon Proficiency Program and the National Radon Safety Board. Visit their website to find qualified radon contractors in your area. Financial assistance is available through the Low-Income Radon Mitigation Assistance Program. 

• Renters: Inform your landlord. Under Colorado law, tenants can void their lease if the landlord does not make reasonable efforts to mitigate elevated radon levels after 180 days. 

 To learn more about radon and how to test your home, visit fortcollins.gov/radon 

Air quality doesn't take the winter off – especially at home. During colder months, temperature inversions can trap pollution near the ground, increasing risks for everyone especially children, older adults and folks with respiratory conditions. 

Skip the candles. They smell great but can release soot and toxins. Try a simmer pot with citrus peels and cinnamon – it’s cozy and easier on your lungs. 

Reduce idling. That “warming up” habit isn’t helping your engine – or your air. Modern vehicles need just 30 seconds to warm up, even on cold days. Turn off engines when waiting more than 10 seconds, including during school pick-up and at train crossings. 

Cleaner air starts with everyday choices – at home, in shared spaces, and on the road.