Denver enforces comprehensive stormwater management under the Denver Revised Municipal Code (DRMC) Chapter 56 (Utilities) and the Ultra-Urban Green Infrastructure Guidelines. The city operates under an MS4 NPDES permit from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. Denver's Green Roof Ordinance (effective 2018) requires green roofs or solar installations on large buildings to reduce stormwater runoff.
All new development and redevelopment must comply with Denver's Stormwater Design Criteria and the Urban Storm Drainage Criteria Manual (USDCM) adopted by the Mile High Flood District. The Green Roof Ordinance applies to new buildings over 25,000 square feet and requires cool/green roofs, green space, or solar panels covering a percentage of roof area. Denver charges stormwater utility fees based on impervious surface. Low Impact Development (LID) techniques including bioretention, permeable pavement, and rain gardens are encouraged. All construction sites must file Stormwater Management Plans and obtain coverage under the Colorado Construction General Permit.
Illicit discharges to Denver's storm sewer system violate DRMC §56-90 et seq. and are subject to civil penalties up to $999 per day per violation. The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI) enforces stormwater requirements and can issue stop-work orders. Failure to maintain required stormwater facilities may result in enforcement action and property liens.
Denver, CO
Denver's Zoning Code allows residential lawn ornaments and statuary without permits provided they do not exceed accessory-structure height limits in DZC Arti...
Denver, CO
Denver does not regulate residential inflatable holiday decorations by size or type. Blower-motor noise falls under DRMC 36-6 (Noise) limits, lighted inflata...
Denver, CO
Denver has no ordinance restricting when residents may put up or take down holiday lights. DRMC Chapter 36 (Noise) governs amplified outdoor displays, DZC Ar...
Denver, CO
Built-in outdoor kitchens in Denver require permits from Community Planning and Development whenever the project includes gas piping, electrical, plumbing, o...
Denver, CO
Backyard wood and pellet smokers are allowed at single-family Denver homes but are governed by DRMC Chapter 4 (Air Pollution Control) and Colorado Department...
Denver, CO
Denver Fire Code (DRMC Title 9, adopting IFC 2018 with amendments) Section 308.1.4 prohibits charcoal grills and LP-gas containers over 1 lb on combustible b...
See how Denver's stormwater management rules stack up against other locations.
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