Denver Zoning Code Article 5 establishes setbacks by context and district. Typical single-unit residential (E-SU-D) setbacks are 20-foot front, 5-foot side, and 12-foot rear. Urban context zones (U-SU-B) allow tighter setbacks as small as 10-foot front. Accessory structures get reduced setbacks.
Denver's form-based zoning code (adopted 2010, updates through 2023) organizes setbacks by Neighborhood Context (Urban, Urban Edge, General Urban, Urban Center, Suburban, Industrial, Open Space, Former Chapter 59) and specific District. Common residential setbacks (Denver Zoning Code Article 5): - Urban Edge Single-Unit (E-SU-D, typical in Park Hill, Washington Park): 20 ft front, 5 ft side, 12 ft rear - Urban Single-Unit (U-SU-B, Baker, Jefferson Park): 10 ft front, 3 ft side, 12 ft rear - Suburban Single-Unit (S-SU-D, Montbello, Green Valley Ranch): 20 ft front, 5 ft side, 12 ft rear Accessory structures (sheds, detached garages, ADUs) allow reduced rear setbacks — often 0 to 5 feet from the alley. Corner lots follow 'street-side' setbacks (typically 10 ft). Historic overlays (Historic Structures and Districts) may mandate conformity with context. Encroachments such as eaves (up to 3 ft), chimneys, bay windows, and porches have allowances. Variances go through Denver Board of Adjustment for Zoning Appeals.
Building in setback: stop-work order and required correction per CPD inspectors. Fines under DRMC §59-61: up to $999. May require structure modification or removal at owner expense. Variance hearing fees $250+.
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 setback rules rules stack up against other locations.
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