Default rule and exceptions
Since Ordinance 1076-24 (effective Sept 2024), Denver runs a universal Sidewalk Program funded by a mandatory per-parcel sidewalk service charge; the city performs sidewalk construction, reconstruction, and repair, tree-caused or not.
| Party | What they are responsible for |
|---|---|
| Property owner | Owners pay the per-parcel sidewalk service charge but no longer perform the repair; the prior owner-liable model was replaced. |
| City / public agency | Denver R.M.C. Ch. 49: the city runs the Sidewalk Program and Fund (49-145 to 49-155). Sec. 49-153(a) even disclaims that the charge guarantees a defect-free sidewalk or creates city liability, confirming the city collects the charge and performs the work. |
| Exceptions | Mandatory per-parcel sidewalk service charge funds the city-run program; airport-authority property is exempt (49-147) |
What the source says
Last verified against the primary source on Sep 7, 2026.
this division promulgates and sets forth a sidewalk service charge to be paid by the owners of every lot or parcel of land within the city, the revenues from which shall be dedicated to construction, reconstruction and repair of sidewalks and sidewalk infrastructure to be performed by the city.
Repair. Fixing or restoring a hazardous condition of an existing sidewalk to a state of good repair. For purposes of this division, the term repair does not include cleaning sidewalks and maintenance of improvements in the public right-of-way as detailed in article XV of chapter 49, D.R.M.C.
City rules rest on state law. Read Colorado's sidewalk statute, quoted verbatim, or see all 50 states in one table.
Common questions
Who pays for tree roots in Denver, CO?
The city / utility. Owners pay the per-parcel sidewalk service charge but no longer perform the repair; the prior owner-liable model was replaced.
Are there exceptions in Denver, CO?
Mandatory per-parcel sidewalk service charge funds the city-run program; airport-authority property is exempt (49-147)
Is there any cost help for tree roots in Denver, CO?
Mandatory per-parcel sidewalk service charge funds the city-run program; airport-authority property is exempt (49-147)
What is this based on for Denver, CO?
This verdict is sourced to Sec. 49-145. - Findings and purpose; Sidewalk Program and Sidewalk Fund. and 2 sources in total, each independently re-checked before publication.
Sources
- Sec. 49-145. - Findings and purpose; Sidewalk Program and Sidewalk Fund.ordinance · verified-primary · accessed 2026-09-27
- Sec. 49-146. - Definitions (Repair).ordinance · verified-primary · accessed 2026-09-27
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