Zoning Matters in Denver
Reasons for Reform: Denver's code has become overly complex and burdensome. The city's first zoning code, which was adopted in 1923, was 25 pages long with 13 district classifications. Today, the Denver zoning code is 639 pages long with 44 basic districts and 14 sub-districts. The last major revision was in 1956.
Reform Timetable: The Zoning Code Update project started in January 2005. There is a Zoning Code Task Force and a Community Advisory Group that oversee the work. Detailed information about the project phases and timetable is available online. See the link below.
Reform Elements: It's too soon to say what will be the key reform elements for Denver. However, this city is a model for public participation and citizen involvement. The code update began with public "Listening Sessions" and update bulletins are routinely prepared. Presently, community briefings are scheduled for August 2007.
Reform Innovation: Again, it is too soon to comment on any innovation for Denver, but the city is moving towards a "form-based" approach to zoning. Learn more about form-based zoning under Types of Zoning Codes, on this site.)
Link: You can follow Denver’s progress at http://www.denvergov.org/ZoningSimplification.