+News from Denver CPD that may impact building and development projects

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News from Community Planning and Development (CPD)

In this issue:

  • New tool helps estimate Denver linkage fees
  • The Clerk & Recorder has moved
  • Phishing scam targets rezoning applicants
  • Hear from CPD leader at commercial real estate event
  • Updates on current planning projects in progress

New estimator tool takes guesswork out of Denver's linkage fees

CPD has launched a new online tool that will help applicants calculate linkage fees for their projects, particularly those building single-unit and two-unit homes. The Linkage Fee Estimator will empower those taking on new construction in Denver by providing greater clarity about the costs up front and helping them make informed decision about potential building projects. 


How to use the estimator: Denver’s Expanding Housing Affordability (EHA) or Mandatory Affordable Housing Ordinance applies to projects with 10 housing units or more. Applicants can use the existing EHA Compliance Calculator to determine their best path forward to meet the law’s requirements. Projects that opt to pay the linkage fee as well as residential projects with 9 units or fewer can then use the new estimator to calculate their linkage fees automatically, based on the project information entered. 

New location for Clerk & Recorder

The Denver Clerk & Recorder has moved all services from the Webb Municipal Building to its headquarters at 200 W. 14th Ave. in Denver. This move centralizes services in one location, including land transaction recordings, deeds of trust, foreclosure services as well as marriage licenses and other legal filings. The office remains open Mondays through Fridays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., except city holidays.


Visit the Clerk & Recorder's website

Phishing alert graphic

Be on the lookout for fraudulent emails seeking payment of rezoning fees

Some rezoning applicants have reported receiving fraudulent emails requesting payment of rezoning fees. These emails are NOT from the City and County of Denver.

 

To protect yourself:

  • Always confirm any payment request directly with your assigned case manager.
  • Check the email address of the sender. If the email does not come from a denvergov.org email address, it is not legitimate.
  • If you think you have received a fraudulent email, forward it to rezoning@denvergov.org.

 

CPD staff does send information on fees to applicants via email in one of two ways:

  1. An email from staff with an invoice attached directing the applicant to contact our Cashiering team for payment.
  2. An automated email directing the applicant to log into E-permits to submit payment.

 

Because language in fraudulent emails can closely mirror that of legitimate messages, please be vigilant in reviewing email communications related to rezoning fees and reach out to your case manager for confirmation or if you have questions. 

Hear from CPD director at 2026 Denver Forecast


CPD Executive Director Brad Buchanan will be one of several panelists in a roundtable discussion on how strategic development, investment and policy initiatives are shaping commercial real estate in Denver. Hosted by Bisnow, the event will take place Thursday, January 29, at the Grad Hyatt Denver, 555 17th Street.


Event details

Neighborhood Planning Updates

Near Northeast Area Plan logo

Coming soon: a neighborhood plan for Clayton, Cole, North Park Hill, Northeast Park Hill and Skyland  


Residents, business owners and other community members in the Near Northeast Area soon will have the opportunity to help shape the future of their neighborhoods. Visit the plan page to join the process by taking the kick-off survey, signing up for project updates and applying to serve on the advisory committee.

Burnham Yard open house

Save the date: Next community open house for Burnham Yard Small Area Plan coming February 12  


RSVP today for the second public event in the planning process for the neighborhoods surrounding the Broncos' preferred site for a new stadium. Join city staff, team representatives and community members to learn about potential alternatives for plan recommendations on Thursday, Feb. 12, starting at 5 p.m. at La Alma Recreation Center.

ICYMI:
Recaps from our last newsletter

Get caught up on last month's news >>


  • Energy Code requirements for new outdoor heated pools or spas will be enforced for new permit applications for projects submitted on April 6, 2026 and after. These requirements are to have a vapor-retardant cover (pool cover) or exceptions for renewable energy or heat pump pool water heating. For questions or more information, please contact energy.review@denvergov.org.


  • Contractors and homeowners doing interior remodels on single-family homes, duplexes and townhouses (three or more side-by-side dwelling units) may now be eligible to apply for a Quick Permit and start work sooner. This permit covers general construction work in compliance with the International Residential Code (IRC). Please note that mechanical, electrical and plumbing work associated with these projects still require individual trade permits. The application is available on E-permits

Denver’s Department of Community Planning and Development (CPD) complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or gender to include language. It is your right to request oral or written language assistance services in your primary language, sign language interpretation, real-time captioning via CART, or disability-related accommodations, if needed. Please fill out our language services request form, and these services will be provided free of charge. If you have any questions, contact CPD’s Operations Team at cpdoperations@denvergov.org.

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