In this issue, you will find:

• The first public events on Modernizing Parking Requirements Project
• Reminder about 2025 Building and Fire Code Update Process
• Resources to learn more about recent zoning code updates
• Graywater classes for homeowners and professionals

Denver Community Planning and Development announced the Modernizing Parking Requirements project in December in an effort to:

• Reduce city time reviewing development applications,
• Promote the development of more housing, and
• Give building projects the flexibility to build the number of parking spaces they deem necessary, based on market conditions. 

Next month, the project team will begin public outreach to share more information on the zoning rules and regulations that may change and collect feedback from community members. We encourage you to join the in-person events listed below to hear from city planners and share your voice.

Wednesday, April 2: Broadway Corridor Parking Minimums Townhall 

6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at Ratio Beerworks, 2030 S. Cherokee St., Denver

Tuesday, April 15: Virtual Townhall Time and login information will be shared soon on the project webpage.

Wednesday, April 16: Council District 6 "Academy in the Community"

5:30-7:30 p.m., Cook Park Recreation Center, 7100 Cherry Creek S. Dr., Denver

Additionally, city planners have completed a project background report that includes information on peer cities, state law, and Denver's current regulations. Click the button below to download the report.

This summer, the City and County of Denver will be adopting the next edition of building and fire codes, which incorporate the following international codes (I-codes):

• 2024 International Building Code (IBC)
• 2024 International Existing Building Code (IEBC)
• 2024 International Residential Code (IRC)
• 2024 International Mechanical Code (IMC)
• 2024 International Plumbing Code (IPC)
• 2024 International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC)
• 2024 International Fire Code (IFC)
• 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)

Except for the IECC, Denver will adopt the 2024 I-Codes and will significantly reduce the number of amendments to these codes, with very few new amendments being added. For the Energy Code, Denver will maintain provisions in the 2021 IECC with limited changes to Denver’s current energy amendments to support clarity and ease requirements for existing buildings. 

The goal for this amendment cycle is to align Denver’s codes more closely with the nationally developed I-Codes by deleting amendments not specific to Denver. The reduced volume of amendments will make it easier for designers and owners to navigate and apply regulations while improving efficiencies for city team members in review and approval. 

City staff welcomes your review and comment on the proposed amendments. Use the link below to learn more about the process, view the proposed amendments, and provide comments through April 18, 2025.

Resources available to understand recent updates to Denver Zoning Code

The 2024 Text Amendment Bundle was adopted December 16, 2024, with changes going into effect February 25, 2025. Given the volume of changes included in the bundle, CPD's Zoning Administration team created brief tutorials to walk code users through the changes. Videos and PDF presentations are available on CPD's website on the following topics and many more:

• Accessible Parking
• Bicycle Parking
• Building Coverage
• Carriage Lots
• Delay of Enforcement
• Food Trucks
• Grading
• Inactive Applications
• Outdoor Gathering Areas
• Rules of Measurement
• Signs
• Special Contexts
• Tandem House
• Tree Preservation
• Zoning Relief

Free graywater workshops for homeowners and professionals

Interested in learning how to install graywater systems? Two upcoming courses at Red Rocks Community College are designed to help you make the most of this cost-efficient upgrade. These classes are free through the Denver Department of Public Health and Environment (DDPHE) to all Denver residents.

Denver homeowners can sign up for a half-day workshop on Laundry to Landscape Graywater Systems. Join us March 31 from noon to 4 p.m. to learn how to divert water from your washer to irrigate your landscape, following Colorado’s graywater regulations and getting ahead on the permitting process. This class is free for Denver residents and is perfect for those looking to conserve water at home. Participants may also qualify for free plumbing parts kits valued at $400.

Denver Metro plumbing and construction professionals can register for the Graywater Design and Installation for Professionals. This course runs April 1-4, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Learn about design, installation, and regulations for graywater systems in Colorado, including a visit to an operational system. Free of charge, this training will quality for certification as a Qualified Water Efficient Landscaper (QWEL). Continuing Education Credits are available for this course.

Get caught up on last month's news >>

• The quick permitting eligibility criteria for electrical work on single-family residences and duplexes (one- and two-family residential) has been expanded, increasing the utility service threshold from 200 amps to 400 amps. This change aims to expand the scope of electrical work eligible for quick permitting, minimizing the need for plan reviews and preventing potential delays. The expanded eligibility was carefully evaluated and determined to have no impact on the safety of the building occupants. See policies ADMIN 133 and ADMIN 131A for details.

• Plumbing contractors must renew their state contractor card and master plumber card with the Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) before they can review their Denver plumbing contractor license. See more information on plumbing renewals on the CPD website.

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