Neighborhood Services & Code Enforcement

Maintaining the cleanliness, safety, and aesthetic appeal of Greenwood Village’s commercial areas is a proactive endeavor that significantly influences the success and vibrancy of local businesses. The Zoning Enforcement Program, guided by the Village municipal zoning code, oversees vital facets such as signage, landscaping, and noise regulation to foster attractive neighborhoods and thriving businesses.

Instituted by the Greenwood Village City Council, the regulations are designed to enhance the quality of life in the village, fostering a peaceful and delightful community environment. This guide outlines essential property maintenance and zoning enforcement details to encourage a mutually beneficial and prosperous commercial landscape.

Our Commercial Property Guide is available for download. 

To report a concern, email our team or call us at (303) 486-5783.

How Does Commercial Property Enforcement Work?

In Greenwood Village, Code Officers from the Community Development and Police Departments vigilantly monitor commercial districts to ensure adherence to the zoning code. In the event of a violation, typically stemming from unawareness of the code stipulations, the business owner or manager receives a notice of violation detailing the issue and the time frame for resolution without an initial fine. The village emphasizes voluntary compliance, focusing on education and rectification rather than immediate penalization. However, persistent non-compliance can result in a formal citation and a mandatory Greenwood Village Municipal Court summons.

What Penalties Can Be Imposed by the Municipal Court?

Cases referred to the court may incur penalties of up to $499 each day the violation persists. The municipal court judge determines the exact penalty.

Greenwood Village Property Maintenance Codes

Below is a summary of the pertinent municipal code sections about commercial property maintenance. Find detailed information in the Greenwood Village Municipal Code.

Signage Ordinance, (§)16

Most commercial signs require a permit, which limits type, content, maximum height and area, location, and number of signs. Specific signs, including real estate and directional signs, do not require a permit but are still subject to size and location restrictions. The following signs are prohibited:

• A-Frame signs
• Sandwich board signs
• Pennants or spinners
• Searchlights
• Inflatable signs
• Sign twirlers
• Animated/flashing signs

Window Signs

Window signs are permitted as long as they do not exceed 20% of the total window area on the front of the building where the primary public entrance is located. Some planned sign programs or approved final development plans may prohibit window signs.

Banners

Banners may be allowed with a banner permit. These are generally limited to a maximum of 30 square feet and can be displayed up to 15 days on three separate occasions per year. Before installing any signs or banners, contact Community Development or call 303-486-5783.

Litter & Refuse Ordinance, (§)7-2-210

Businesses must maintain their premises in a clean and orderly condition at all times, permitting no deposit, outside storage, or accumulation of refuse or materials other than those ordinarily attendant upon the use for which such premises are legally intended.  Any such accumulation shall be deemed a nuisance.

Outdoor Storage & Display, (§)16-24-40

Outdoor display, sales and storage is generally prohibited in commercial districts unless it has been permitted pursuant to Section 16-2-530 of the municipal code. In the B-1, B-2, B-3, and M-C zone districts, outdoor display, sales and storage activities are limited to: 

• The display and sales of seasonal merchandise
• Sidewalk sales
• Sales by charitable organizations
• Outdoor eating and dining
• Display of tires at automotive businesses; and, 
• The use of semitrailers or similar containers for temporary storage of seasonal merchandise for single retail establishments having not less than one hundred thousand square feet of floor area.  

A permit for each of the above is required.  Retail merchandise displays are allowed without a permit, however, the display must consist of single items representative of stock stored and sold indoors; there can be no racks or collections of multiple and similar items i.e. clothing, bicycles or books; all items must be placed indoors at the close of business; the display is limited to 20 square feet; and the display must not impede vehicular or pedestrian traffic, and a clear space of three feet must be maintained for pedestrians. 

You must email Community Development or call 303-486-5783 prior to displaying or storing items outdoors.

General Nuisances, (§)7

The Village’s Nuisance Ordinance covers a wide range of situations.  A nuisance is any activity, operation, condition, building, place, or thing which is either injurious to one’s health or safety and/or is indecent or offensive to the senses.  Nuisances interfere with the comfortable enjoyment of life and/or property. Deteriorated property, dilapidated structures, junked or discarded vehicles, refuse, and weeds are some examples of nuisances that Zoning Enforcement investigates.  

Noise Ordinance, (§)7-5-30

Complaints concerning excessive noise are investigated by either the Police Department or the Community Development Department.  Acute noises, such as those from loud stereos or from parties, are addressed by the Police Department.  Operating any tools or equipment in connection with construction is only allowed Monday-Friday 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Sunday/holidays 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.  Loading, unloading, opening, closing or other handling of boxes, crates, containers, building materials, garbage cans or similar objects in such a manner as to cause a noise disturbance across residential property lines is considered a nuisance and shall be avoided.  

Environmental Pollution Ordinance, (§)7-150-170

Property maintenance also includes the protection of residents and other businesses from pollution from many sources, including smoke, glare from lights, pouring liquids onto streets and on lots, intentional or unintentional polluting of water supplies, and solid waste dumping. This includes the dumping of anti-freeze or cleaning solvents or the draining of oil.  Any questionable liquid you see in gutters or in parking lots is a potential pollutant.  If you do suspect pollution, call the Police Department non-emergency line at 303-773-2525 or Community Development at 303-486-5783 immediately with your concerns.

Landscaping Ordinance, (§) 16-21-2

The owner of any business or commercial lot shall maintain all landscaping installed upon the lot by regular weeding, pruning, and mowing of plant materials and by removal of all dead plant material.  Landscape permits are required for projects within 10 feet of a property boundary, projects within a drainage easement, or projects that disturb more than 500 square feet of ground cover.  Grading permits are required for projects that disturb or include more than 10 cubic yards of soil.  Flatwork permits are required for projects that include the replacement or addition of more than 100 square feet of paved area.

Snow Removal Ordinance, (§)11-1

The owner, occupant, lessee, or person in control of any premises or property located in the Village's commercial areas is responsible for maintaining sidewalks adjoining such property in a condition free from snow or ice and removing any accumulation of snow and ice within 24 hours after its accumulation.

Questions?

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to email the NSO team or call us at (303) 486-5793.

The Neighborhood Services Program is designed to foster a community where the usage and maintenance of residential properties are in harmony with our locality's shared values and standards. Neighborhood Services Officers (NSO) ordinarily respond to individual complaints in residential areas, ensuring that every voice in the community is heard and respected.

In circumstances of repeated infractions within 18 months or where there is ongoing construction, the Village proactively oversees compliance to uphold community standards and prevent any disruptions. This guide outlines the typical scenarios encountered in property maintenance and code enforcement activities in residential zones, showcasing our dedication to sustaining a peaceful and orderly neighborhood for all residents.

Our Residential Property Guide is available for download. 

To report a concern, email our team or call us at (303) 486-5793.

How Does Residential Code Enforcement Work?

The Village's Code Enforcement officers, based in the Community Development and Police Department, are devoted to upholding our community standards. Inspections are initiated when a complaint is received, which residents can file through various avenues, including the City's website, phone, email, or personally at the City Hall. All complaints are documented and accessible under the Colorado Open Records Act.

Upon verification of a complaint, the involved party is informed and educated about the specific ordinances, encouraging voluntary compliance initially, with no immediate fines imposed. A reasonable time frame is allocated for them to address the issue, guided by an officer.

However, suppose the issue remains unresolved in the given period. In that case, formal legal steps, including a summons to the Greenwood Village Municipal Court, are undertaken to maintain the integrity and standards of our community.

What Penalties Can be Imposed by the Municipal Court?

When cases are escalated to the Court, individuals may face penalties of up to $499 each day the violation persists. The Municipal Court Judge determines the exact penalty based on their discretion. In certain situations, it might be deemed necessary to mandate the abatement of a property, mainly if a risk to surrounding environments, safety, or health exists. Following such an intervention, all expenses taken by the Village in rectifying the violation, including administrative costs, would be levied as a municipal lien against the property, emphasizing the collective responsibility to adhere to community standards and ensure safety for all.

Common Property Maintenance Items:

Wildlife & Domestic Animals

Dogs running at large, animals disturbing the peace, sick or injured animals, abused or neglected animals, and wildlife issues are concerns addressed by Police Department Code Enforcement Officers (Phone: 303-773-2525). All dogs and cats over three months must be vaccinated against rabies. In addition, all dogs must wear a collar with their rabies tag firmly attached. Horses and other livestock are permitted in some residential zone districts. Proper care of animals and their accommodations is required.

Inoperable Vehicles

Inoperable vehicles are not allowed on private or public property unless the car is completely enclosed within a building or structure on private property. Inoperable vehicles are defined as vehicles not displaying valid license plates or lacking any part necessary for legal operation on a public street, including flat tires.

Recreational Vehicle Parking

A recreational vehicle or recreational trailer used as a dwelling and not owned by the property owner may be parked on a single-family residential property with permission of the property owner or occupant or on the adjacent street and used for temporary human occupancy for no more than 72 consecutive hours.

Exterior Maintenance

The exterior elements of a residence shall be maintained in good condition. Exterior maintenance violations include substantial peeling or faded paint, broken or missing shutters or fascia, damaged roof shingles, missing windows, or broken or damaged fencing.

Litter and Refuse

Residents must promptly remove any accumulated materials, litter, or refuse on the property, including but not limited to household appliances, cardboard; yard clippings; leaves; abandoned or damaged household furnishings; old fencing; vehicle tires, and parts. 

Trash and recycling containers must be stored in a garage or other screened location. Containers may not be left at the curb for more than one day before the scheduled trash pick-up and removed from the curb no later than midnight following a scheduled pick-up. 

Contractors are always required to keep the property clean and orderly. All building materials shall be neatly stored and promptly removed or discarded when they are no longer needed. All dumpsters, port-o-lets, equipment, trailers, construction, and landscape materials must be stored on-site. Storage on city streets and right-of-way is strictly prohibited.

Environmental Pollution

Property maintenance also includes the protection of residents from pollution from many sources, including smoke, stagnant ponds; pouring liquids onto streets and on lots, intentional or polluting of water supplies, and solid waste dumping. This includes the dumping of anti-freeze, cleaning solvents, or draining oil. Any questionable liquid in gutters or parking lots is a potential pollutant. Call the Neighborhood Services Program immediately with your concerns if you suspect pollution.

Noise

Complaints concerning excessive noise are investigated by either the Police Department or the Community Development Department. The Police Department addresses acute noises, such as those from loud stereos or from parties. Noise, such as mechanical equipment on buildings, is addressed by the Community Development Department. Operating tools or equipment in connection with construction is only allowed Monday-Friday 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and Sunday/holidays 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Outdoor Storage

The storage of items not generally associated with the property's primary use in an outdoor location in Greenwood Village is prohibited. This means items such as bicycles, BBQ grills, and outdoor furniture are allowed in residential areas, but unused furniture, storage racks, and discarded items are not allowed. Likewise, broken and new appliances, tires, and litter are not allowed. If you observe anything stored outside not generally associated with the property's primary use, you may call the Neighborhood Services Program. 

Weed & Grass Growth

The Village has an aggressive program to minimize weed and grass problems. The property owner or resident is responsible for keeping weeds and grass below eight (8) inches, except in the rural residential areas of the Village where longer grass is within the neighborhood's character. Noxious weeds are poisonous weeds, aggressively invade landscapes, carry diseases, or are detrimental to the environment. Unlike regular weeds, these weeds must be effectively controlled by spraying, mowing, and revegetation.

Dead or Overgrown Landscaping

Trees, shrubs, or other vegetation that are dead, broken, or infested by insects shall be removed from the property. Branches of trees, shrubs, or any other plant material should never obstruct sidewalks or streets. This includes landscaping that overhangs in a manner that interferes with the safe and unobstructed movement of pedestrians or vehicles on any road or trail. Trimming guidelines must be followed to prevent overgrown landscaping in the Village Right-of-Way.

Stagnant Ponds

Any cellar, vault, drain, sewer, pond of water, swimming pool, or other place in the Village that is noxious, offensive, or harmful to others, through an accumulation or deposits of noxious, offensive or foul water or other substances, or to the breeding of mosquitoes, shall be deemed a nuisance. 

Rodents & Pests

It is deemed a nuisance to allow any mice, rats, squirrels, skunks, rabbits, prairie dogs, gophers, or groundhogs to infest any real property within the Village to encroach upon or cause damage to other property. Any abatement shall conform to applicable state law and Division of Wildlife regulations. 

Snow Removal

The owner, occupant, lessee, or person in possession or control of any single-family residential property having a sidewalk abutting the front or, in the case of a corner lot, the front and side of a residence shall maintain the sidewalk in a condition free from snow or ice and shall remove any accumulation of snow or ice from such sidewalks within 48 hours after its accumulation. This responsibility does not extend to driveways or walkways leading from the sidewalk to the residence nor sidewalks or trails abutting the rear property of a residence. Depositing snow or ice from the property onto any sidewalk, street, or highway is strictly prohibited.

A trash can and recycling bin ordinance significantly enhances neighborhood aesthetics, promoting a clean, uniform, and visually appealing environment. The systematic placement and timely disposal of waste uphold safety and hygiene, helping avoid accidents and maintain cleanliness in community spaces. Further supporting a well-ordered and clean community can potentially uplift the value of properties in the area, aiding in economic stability and fostering a more harmonious neighborhood setting. Municipal Code (§)7-2-210 regulates the placement and storage of trash and recycling containers. 

Concerns may be reported by emailing nso@greenwoodvillage.com or calling (303) 486-5793.

Time Frame

Waste containers may be placed at the curb one day before the scheduled pickup. This means trash and recycling containers cannot be placed at the curb more than two days per week. 

Screening

Trash and recycling containers must be stored in such a position on the property as to be reasonably screened from the view of those of the property. Examples of reasonable screening are:

• Behind a mature hedge or similar dense vegetation of sufficient height to thoroughly screen the trash and recycle cans from view of adjacent streets or properties. 
• Within a wholly enclosed structure such as a garage or
• Behind a fence/wall of sufficient height to screen the containers.

Large Item Pick-Up

Items too large to be picked up with regular trash service can be scheduled for collection with the City of Greenwood Village. Please visit our Trash & Recycling webpage for more information. 

Zoning Enforcement is the process through which the City of Greenwood Village ensures that the use of land and buildings within a municipality complies with the established zoning ordinances. These ordinances, which are aspects of urban planning, could relate to a wide variety of issues including but not limited to:

Land Use: Determining the types of activities that may occur in specific areas, such as residential, commercial, industrial, etc.

Building Height and Density: Restricting the height and bulk of new buildings to maintain the area's character.

Lot Coverage: Defining the proportion of a lot that structures can cover.

Aesthetic Appearance: Prescribing the exterior appearance of buildings to maintain a certain aesthetic standard in the community.

Parking and Traffic Control: Setting standards for parking facilities to control traffic congestion and ensure safety.

Landscaping: Regulating the green space provisions in different types of properties to promote ecological balance and aesthetics.

Signage: Controlling signs' size, type, and location to prevent visual clutter and maintain the community's visual standards.

Noise Control: Implementing rules to control noise pollution in different zones.

The zoning enforcement process involves the following:

Monitoring and Inspection: Regularly monitor constructions and existing properties to ensure they comply with the zoning ordinances.

Complaint Response: Responding to complaints from the public about potential violations.

Violation Notices: Issuing notices to owners of properties found violating the zoning regulations, giving them a chance to rectify the issues.

Enforcement Actions: Taking enforcement actions, which can include fines, legal actions, and, in severe cases, ordering the removal of the violating structures if the violations are not corrected within a specified time frame.

Education and Information: Providing information and education to the public about the zoning regulations to foster voluntary compliance.

Zoning enforcement helps to maintain order, safety, and a desirable quality of life in a community, promoting organized and harmonious development in line with the community's goals and values. 

Further details and information can be found by visiting the City's Municipal Code, Zoning Section.