Denver zoning limits residential lot coverage to 37.5 to 50% depending on context, covering primary and accessory structures. Additional impervious surface (driveways, patios) is limited separately. Historic districts and Mountain View corridors add overlays.
Under Denver Zoning Code Article 5, maximum lot coverage by primary and accessory structures varies by district: - E-SU-D (Urban Edge Single Unit): 37.5% maximum - U-SU-B (Urban Single Unit, small lot): 50% maximum - S-SU-D (Suburban Single Unit): 37.5% maximum - Urban Center MX zones: 80%+ with design standards Lot coverage is measured as the percentage of the lot covered by buildings (primary dwelling, ADU, garage, shed). Impervious surface ratios (driveways, patios, sport courts) may be regulated separately under stormwater rules administered by DOTI. Permeable pavers and pervious concrete may earn partial credit (usually 50%) under stormwater criteria. Exceeding coverage requires a variance from the Board of Adjustment. Denver's Green Building Ordinance (DRMC §10-305) and the Green Buildings and Cool Roof ordinance (2018) impose additional requirements on roof materials and solar/green area for larger buildings. Xeriscape and permeable design encouraged citywide.
Exceeding lot coverage: stop-work order, required removal of non-conforming structure, or variance. Fines $200 to $999. Stormwater violations add DOTI enforcement with separate penalties.
Denver County, CO
Denver DRMC Chapter 36 sets quiet hours 11 PM–7 AM in residential zones. Residential limit is 55 dBA daytime, 50 dBA nighttime. Violations can reach $5,000/day.
Denver County, CO
Denver has no outright ban on leaf blowers but phases in restrictions on gas-powered commercial landscape equipment. DRMC Chapter 36 noise limits apply, and ...
Denver County, CO
Denver requires driveways to meet setback and width standards. Blocking the public sidewalk is prohibited. Curb cuts require a permit from DOTI.
Denver County, CO
Denver limits large commercial vehicle parking on residential streets to 2 hours. A 2023 ordinance expanded restrictions citywide. Trucks used for active wor...
Denver County, CO
Denver requires a zoning permit for fences between 4–6 feet. Over-height (6+ ft) fences require an additional over-height fence permit. Historic properties r...
Denver County, CO
Colorado's Good Neighbor Fence Act (C.R.S. §35-46-112) applies. Denver does not mandate cost-sharing, but neighbors may negotiate. Disputes over boundary fen...
See how Denver County's lot coverage limits rules stack up against other locations.
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