Denver requires vacant lots to be maintained in compliance with DRMC Chapter 27 (Housing) and Chapter 48 (Solid Waste). Vacant and unimproved lots must be kept free of weeds, trash, and debris. The city actively monitors vacant properties and responds to 311 complaints about neglected lots.
Vacant lot owners must maintain vegetation below 12 inches, prevent accumulation of trash and debris, and secure the lot against unauthorized dumping. Fencing may be required for lots that attract persistent illegal dumping. Sidewalks adjacent to vacant lots must be maintained by the property owner including snow removal. Denver may mow, clean, or secure a vacant lot and bill the property owner. Persistent problem lots may be referred for public nuisance proceedings. The city's Land Bank program acquires some chronically blighted vacant lots for community development.
Violations of vacant lot maintenance standards follow the same enforcement process as property blight: notice of violation, compliance deadline, and escalating fines starting at $150 per day. Denver may perform maintenance and place a lien on the property for costs. Repeated violations can result in public nuisance declaration and potential condemnation proceedings.
Denver, CO
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Denver, CO
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Denver, CO
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Denver, CO
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Denver, CO
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Denver, CO
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See how Denver's vacant lot maintenance rules stack up against other locations.
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