Denver's Zoning Code allows residential lawn ornaments and statuary without permits provided they do not exceed accessory-structure height limits in DZC Article 4 (typically 17 ft) and do not encroach into the public right-of-way (DRMC Chapter 49). Signs with messaging are governed by DZC Article 10.10, and HOA architectural review applies to applicable properties.
Free-standing ornaments under 6 feet tall and not anchored are not regulated as structures by the Denver Building Code. Larger ornaments count as accessory structures under DZC Article 4 — typical Single Unit setback rules: 5 ft sides / 10 ft rear / 20 ft front yard zone. Accessory-structure height limited to 17 feet. Encroachment of ornaments into the public sidewalk or tree lawn violates DRMC 49-553 (Encroachment) — removal orders and fines. Permanent in-strip placement requires a revocable encroachment permit from Public Works. Political signs are protected by the First Amendment but subject to viewpoint-neutral DZC 10.10 sign size limits — typically 32 sq ft total in single-family zones with no time restriction post-Reed v. Town of Gilbert. Religious displays have constitutional protection but follow viewpoint-neutral size and setback rules. HOAs and metro districts apply CC&R architectural review.
Right-of-way encroachment under DRMC 49-553 triggers removal orders and fines of $150-$999. Oversized accessory structures or sign violations cited under DZC 10.10 / DRMC 59-91 with civil penalties of $150-$999 per day. HOA enforcement is contractual under the Colorado Common Interest Ownership Act (CCIOA).
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