Public comments needed on Denver green roof ordinance Email


Last November, Denver voters approved an ordinance that would require new buildings or buildings undergoing a roof replacement to install a green roof. A task force was formed in January this year with the goal of modifying the initiative to facilitate implementation and still produce the intended outcomes of the original initiative. A draft proposal was revealed last week by the task force, and the City and County of Denver are asking for public comments.

Since the green roofs are to be installed by a contractor with landscape irrigation experience, it is important that landscape professionals weigh in on the ordinance and proposed changes. Any landscape pros who perform services in the City and County of Denver are encouraged to review the proposal and background information and submit comments that can help the task force develop sound, realistic goals for the ordinance. 

Comments received by noon on May 18 will be shared with the task force before their May 23 meeting, but comments will be accepted through noon on June 3.  
 
Two public briefings and input sessions will be held. If you are interested in green roof installation in Denver, it can be helpful to attend one of these meetings to offer your professional recommendations and to ask questions.

  • Friday, May 11, 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. in the Wellington Webb Municipal Building, room 4.G.2 
  • Monday, May 14, 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. in the Wellington Webb Municipal Building, room 1.B.6 

Last night the Green Roof Review Task Force share updated proposal details and supporting documentation:

The Green Roof Review Task Force now has an updated working draft proposal available for public review and comment. At a high level, the task force believes the updated proposal linked below is taking the ordinance in the right direction for Denver. While it is not members' ideal policy, it is a compromise that members believe is getting closer to something all can accept because it strengthens the benefits while reducing the costs. The group believes this approach will improve flexibility, allowing each owner of an existing large building and each new builder to find the most cost-effective ways to achieve the benefits outlined in the original ordinance.

Please let them know if you agree that, directionally, the proposal included here is an improvement upon the original ballot language and help them get the details right.  See the full email.

Read more in this issue of Colorado Green NOW:
Respirator safety training from OSHA
Free app offers local water regs, rebate info

Landscape companies honor family of fallen deputy
Outdoor learning lab prepares students for landscape careers