Colorado's Right to Farm Act under CRS 35-3.5-102 shields agricultural operations from nuisance lawsuits when they follow generally accepted practices and predate complaints.
The Colorado Right to Farm Act, codified at CRS 35-3.5-102, protects ranches, farms, and other agricultural operations from nuisance claims when they have been in operation for at least one year, comply with applicable laws, and use generally accepted agricultural practices. The protection extends to noise, dust, odors, smoke, and lights normally associated with farming. Subsequent residential development next to existing operations does not create a nuisance claim under the law. Counties must include right-to-farm disclosures in real estate transactions in many areas. Operations that change substantially may lose protection.
Right-to-farm protection is a defense rather than a penalty, but improper claims may result in dismissal of nuisance suits and award of attorney fees to farmers.
Thornton, CO
Thornton prohibits storing abandoned, inoperable, or unregistered vehicles on public streets or visible on private property. Vehicles may be tagged and towed...
Thornton, CO
Thornton regulates electric vehicle charging infrastructure for residential and commercial properties. Building codes may require EV-ready parking in new con...
Thornton, CO
Thornton regulates overnight parking on public streets. Many areas restrict parking between certain hours or require permits for overnight street parking.
Thornton, CO
Thornton requires pool barriers meeting safety codes to prevent drowning. Fences must be at least 4 to 5 feet tall with self-closing, self-latching gates.
Thornton, CO
Thornton requires permits for retaining walls above a certain height, typically 4 feet. Engineering review may be required for taller walls.
Thornton, CO
Thornton restricts or prohibits intentional feeding of wildlife including deer, coyotes, and bears. Feeding wildlife creates public safety hazards and nuisan...
See how Thornton's farm nuisance protection rules stack up against other locations.
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