Denver allows home-based businesses in residential zones with a Home Occupation Permit. Business must be conducted entirely within the home and must not alter the residential character of the property.
Denver's zoning code and DRMC Chapter 10 permit home occupations in residential zone districts provided a Home Occupation Permit (zoning permit) is obtained. The business must be conducted entirely inside the dwelling, must not generate traffic, noise, odors, or visual changes inconsistent with the residential area, and must not employ more than one non-resident employee. The home must remain the operator's primary residence. Certain high-impact uses (auto repair, food production without cottage food license, etc.) are prohibited. Permit applications are filed through Denver's CPD e-permit system.
Operating without a Home Occupation Permit is a zoning violation. Fines and cease-and-desist orders apply.
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 zoning restrictions rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.