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In the United States, land use and zoning laws are local policies that dictate how property in certain geographic zones can be used. These laws typically dictate large scale development parameters, from whether zones can be used for residential, industrial, or commercial constructions, to smaller details like landscaping or building dimensions. In Denver, land use and zoning laws have been used extensively to shape urban and suburban development and influence the unique characteristics of the city's neighborhoods.
If you're planning to purchase, sell or develop a property in Denver, navigating the complexities of land use and zoning ordinances can be challenging. You might need a lawyer to assist you in interpreting these laws, assisting with paperwork, and advocating for your interest during planning, permitting and zoning board hearings. Furthermore, if you intend to challenge a zoning decision or want to seek a variance or conditional use permit, a lawyer can provide instrumental legal guidance and representation.
Denver City has adopted the Denver Zoning Code, which outlines policies for land use and zoning. The code provides a guide on how land in Denver should be used and developed to achieve a desired pattern of growth. The code covers varied aspects, from zone district designations, land use rules, urban design standards, and specific zoning procedures. Building permits, land usage, variances, and rezoning are subjects commonly addressed in these codes and procedures.
Zone districts specify the allowed land uses and backup regulations, governing activities ranging from residential, business, commercial, or mixed uses.
A variance is an approved deviation from the standard zoning regulations based on specific hardships or practical difficulties arising from the peculiarities of the property.
An owner or their representative can apply for rezoning by submitting a rezoning application to the Community Planning and Development Department.
Zoning permits verify that a proposed use or construction is in line with Denver's zoning laws. They are often needed before obtaining building permits for constructions or changes in the use of a property.
This is a high-level depiction of a development proposal, indicating general building placement, access points into and out of the site, and the proposed land uses.
The Community Planning and Development Department of Denver is the major regulatory body. It provides several resources including the Denver Zoning Code, zoning maps, bulletins and policy references and Denver's Blueprint - the Future Land Use Map.
If you require legal assistance in Denver's land use and zoning matters, start by identifying a local legal expert with specific experience in real estate and zoning law. They can help you understand your legal position and potential actions more clearly. You may also want to familiarize yourself with the Denver Zoning Code to get a basic understanding of Denver's approaches to land use and development.
