URCO for Construction and Demolition Projects

Summary of Requirements

The Universal Recycling and Composting Ordinance applies to any project that is permitted by the city and is:

  • A new construction or demolition project larger than 500 sq. ft.
  • An Interior remodel project larger than 2,500 sq. ft. 

The ordinance does NOT apply to:

  • Change of occupancy permits where no construction is required
  • Emergency orders

Project Requirements:

  • At least 50% of all debris generated on site must be reused or recycled.
  • A minimum of three materials (such as concrete, asphalt, masonry, untreated wood, metal, or corrugated cardboard) must be reused or recycled.
  • A performance security deposit, based on the type and size of the project, must be submitted to be issued a permit.
  • A  waste diversion plan must be submitted through an online platform (Green Halo) to be issued a permit.
  • Compliance documentation must be submitted at the end of the project.

Beginning in 2036, the diversion requirements and size thresholds for qualifying permitted construction and demolition projects will become more stringent.

See the Full Rules and Regulations(PDF, 1MB)

More detailed information, including step-by-step instructions for compliance and supporting materials, will be available in the coming weeks.

Exemptions

In some situations, you can ask for an exemption from the URCO requirements. For example:  

  • A reduction in the diversion rate and/or number of covered materials due to site-specific conditions or material recyclability
  • A reduced performance security deposit due to economic hardship if the amount of the deposit exceeds 10% of the valuation of the project 

Contact Us

Have any additional questions that were not covered here? Visit Community Planning and Development's URCO website or contact us at CDWasteDiversion@denvergov.org.

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