§ 8.3.7. Location of hazard areas.

A.

Geologic hazard areas include all areas classified as 4, 5, 6, or 7 on the official geologic hazard maps reviewed by the Colorado Geological Survey. Hazard areas also include any areas that have not been so classified but where a hazard has been identified and confirmed by the Colorado Geological Survey. If an applicant questions the existence of a hazard area within the area proposed for development, he/she may submit evidence from duly qualified experts. The county commissioners may consider that evidence and other evidence in determining if the development is within a hazard area.

B.

The wildfire hazard area includes those areas west of the boundary shown on the Larimer County Fire Hazard Area Map adopted by the county commissioners. Lands within the wildfire hazard area are classified as a wildfire hazard on maps prepared by the Colorado State Forest Service and previously adopted by county commissioners. Wildfire hazard areas also include any areas that have not been so classified but where a hazard has been identified and confirmed by the Colorado State Forest Service or the Larimer County Wildfire Safety Coordinator. If an applicant questions the existence of a wildfire hazard within the area proposed for development, he/she may submit evidence from duly-qualified experts. The county commissioners may consider that evidence and all other evidence in determining if the development is within a hazard area.

C.

If there is an indication that a hazard area exists within all or a part of any development that has not either been mapped or identified as detailed in the immediately preceding section, the county or other public agency claiming the existence of the hazard area has the burden to establish the extent and severity of the hazard by competent evidence from experts in the field. The county commissioners will make the final determination as to whether a hazard area exists.