The short answer
Colorado enforces NEC 2026, the current edition there, statewide, in effect since August 1, 2026.
- Current edition
- NEC 2026 (current)
- Adoption
- Statewide
- In effect since
- August 1, 2026
- Primary source
- www.sos.state.co.us
Code adoption cycles change. Always confirm the edition and amendments in force with your Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) before permitting work.
How does Colorado adopt the NEC?
Colorado's State Electrical Board adopts the NEC by rule with modest administrative amendments; no broad AFCI/GFCI carve-out is on record. Home-rule municipalities (notably Denver) may adopt newer editions or add local amendments ahead of the state.
What are Colorado's amendments to the NEC?
The app's record for Colorado lists no individual amendments; the adoption summary above says how the state applies the code.
Who issues electrical permits in Colorado?
Most permits/inspections run through the State Electrical Board's field inspection program outside home-rule cities; home-rule municipalities like Denver run independent permitting.
Who licenses electricians in Colorado?
Statewide licensing of master, journeyman, and residential wireman electricians through the State Electrical Board. Licensing board: Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) - State Electrical Board.
Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) - State Electrical Board
Is Colorado moving to a newer NEC edition?
On the current NEC 2026 (3 CCR 710-1 Rule 1.5). Denver requires the 2026 NEC for submittals on or after 2026-08-01, and licensing exams moved to it the same day.
Is Colorado on NEC 2026?
Yes. NEC 2026 is the newest edition, and Colorado is one of the nine jurisdictions where it is current.