Denver Neighborhood Inspection Services enforces DRMC Chapter 27 property maintenance. Vacant properties register under Vacant Building Ordinance (DRMC §10-95). Violations carry fines up to $999/day.
Denver enforces property maintenance through DRMC Chapter 27 (property maintenance), Chapter 49 (right-of-way), and the Denver International Property Maintenance Code. Common violations include peeling exterior paint, broken windows, graffiti (must be removed within 7 days per DRMC §38-117), accumulated junk or debris, weeds over 6 inches, damaged roofing or siding, and inoperable vehicles. Enforcement is complaint-driven through Denver 311 (311 phone or PocketGov app). A Notice of Violation typically gives 14 to 30 days to correct. Failure to correct triggers fines of $150 to $999 per day per violation. Denver's Vacant Building Ordinance (DRMC §10-95) requires registration of vacant residential buildings within 30 days of vacancy, with a base fee and escalating annual fees. The city may abate severe nuisances (board-ups, weed mowing, debris removal) and place a lien for costs on the property.
Notice of violation: 14-30 day compliance. Fines: $150 to $999 per day per violation. Municipal abatement: costs liened. Graffiti not removed in 7 days: additional fine.
See how Denver County's property blight rules stack up against other locations.
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