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Types of Code Violations


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Housing - Boulder Revised Code
The City of Boulder’s housing code ensures that no dwelling “presents an imminent hazard to public health or to the physical safety of the occupants therein.” Minimum standards for equipment and facilities address proper plumbing, heating, light/ventilation, safety from fire, and maintenance, among others. The city manager reserves the right to issue a notice of violation and inspect a premise to ensure compliance. 

Nuisance Abatement - Boulder Revised Code
This ordinance was initiated to prevent chronic property violations, (such as trash), that occur when two or more separate violations in twelve months or three or more separate violations within twenty-four months have occurred and there is a civilian witness (not a law enforcement officer) who is willing to participate in the process. Fact Sheet

Stormwater Quality -Boulder Revised Code
By city code, no user or other person shall discharge any sewage, other polluted waters, or other deleterious substance from any premises within the city into or upon any public highway, street, sidewalk, alley, land, public place, stream, ditch or other watercourse.

Zoning

Illegal Signs on Private Property - Boulder Revised Code
No person may display, construct, erect, alter or use any sign except in accordance with the provisions of Boulder Revised Code 9-9 and upon first obtaining a permit.

Illegal Dwelling Units - Boulder Revised Code
Only an owner-occupied, detached single-family residence may establish an accessory dwelling unit within the principal residence in certain specified residential zoning districts. A permit is required.

Lighting Violations - Outdoor Lighting Ordinance 

Over-Occupancy - Boulder Revised Code
The city’s occupancy regulations permit no more than three unrelated persons to inhabit most residences. In condominiums and apartments, no more than four unrelated persons are permitted in each unit. Permitted occupancy of a property is ultimately determined by zoning and can be verified with the city. Maximum penalty for over-occupancy is $2,000 per day plus 90 days in jail. (City code)

Zoning / Illegal Uses
If you have a question about zoning and/or occupancy, call the Planning Department at 303-441-1880.  If you would like to file a complaint about zoning or over-occupancy, call the Zoning Administrator's office at 303-441-1880. Learn more about zoning.

Historic Preservation - Boulder Revised Code

Building Safety

Work Without a Permit - Boulder Revised Code

If your work does not require a permit, you are still legally bound to meet all city codes. For more information, visit the Planning & Development Services Center.

Building Safety - Boulder Revised Code 10-5-2 and Boulder Revised Code 4-4-3.

Building codes must be followed for the health and safety of the public and permits are required to erect, enlarge, alter, demolish, or repair a structure, including building, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing work. Contractors are required to be licensed. 

Rental Housing Licensing - (Boulder Revised Code 10-3-210-3-5 and 10-2-19a)

The city licenses rental housing to ensure it is safe, clean and sanitary. Rental inspections are required for licensing. All rental properties must be inspected and licensed pursuant to the provisions of Boulder Revised Code 10-2 and 10-3. Occupants shall maintain dwellings and premises in a safe, clean and sanitary condition.
Housing Inspection: 303-441-3152

To report a housing code and/or a rental license violation or complaint, use the Report a Code Violation web form.