Community Planning and Development

Planning Services
Plan Implementation

201 W Colfax Ave, Dept 205

Denver, CO 80202
p: 720-865-2915
f: 720-865-3056
www.denvergov.org/planning

Summary of Proposed Revisions to Draft FPA Ordinances

LUTI Committee Meeting
April 5, 2011

The following is a summary of revisions proposed by Councilmember Nevitt to the

March 22, 2011, draft of Denver Zoning Code (DZC) provisions and Chapter 8 – Animal
Code provisions regarding the keeping of Food Producing Animals (FPAs). These
revisions are offered in response to public comments received to date, as further
discussed by the councilman and affected City departments (DEH and CPD).

1. The spacing standard in the Denver Zoning Code use limitations (Article 11) is
increased to 15 feet from 10 feet. This is spacing required between any structure
used to house FPAs and any structure containing a dwelling unit on abutting
properties.

2. The permeable surface area required per chicken, a new standard proposed in the
Animal Code, is increased to 16 square feet from 10 square feet.

3. A requirement for a one-time, low-fee (approx. $20) license for keeping of FPAs
is added to the Animal Code. This license would not have to be renewed
annually.

4. The shelter requirement in the Animal Code is revised to remove the minimum
square footage requirements, and replace them with a requirement that then owner
provide “adequate shelter” that protects the animals from inclement weather and
from predators at night. DEH/Animal Control staff will review an owner’s shelter
proposal at the time of licensing to ensure its adequacy, taking into account the
specific lot configuration and number/types of animals being proposed.