Denver Water coined 'xeriscape' in 1981 and actively promotes native/drought-tolerant landscaping. C.R.S. §37-60-126 and HB 19-1050 prohibit HOAs from banning xeriscape. Rebates via Denver Water's Garden In A Box and Turf Replacement programs.
Denver strongly encourages xeriscape and native plant landscaping through Denver Water programs and local code. Colorado HB 19-1050 (C.R.S. §37-60-126) and SB 23-178 prohibit HOAs from banning xeriscape, drought-tolerant plantings, or water-wise garden designs. Denver Water's turf replacement rebate offers up to $2 per square foot (capped at $3,000 residential, $6,000 commercial) for converting Kentucky bluegrass to low-water plantings. The Garden In A Box program provides pre-designed xeriscape kits at subsidized prices. Denver's 2024 Landscape Ordinance (Ord. 24-0115) limits 'non-functional turf' in new commercial, multifamily, and government developments. Native plant lists are published by Denver Botanic Gardens and Colorado State University Extension. Invasive species (Russian olive, tamarisk, myrtle spurge) are regulated under the Colorado Noxious Weed Act.
HOA illegal restriction of xeriscape: unenforceable, homeowner may sue. Non-compliant new commercial turf: building permit denial. Noxious weed neglect: county weed notice plus abatement costs.
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 native plants rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.