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 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 native plants rules stack up against other locations.
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