The official term for a "rezoning" is a zone map amendment. Every property in the City is given a zoning designation, usually a designation that is consistent with the historic use of the property, nearby properties, and the Comprehensive Plan.

There are two types of zone map amendments: (1) standard rezoning application, and (2) Planned Unit Development (P.U.D.) application.

 

Rezoning and changes to the zoning ordinance, known as map and language amendments, are done to establish and maintain sound, stable and desirable development in Denver. Amendments include:

• Correcting an error in the zoning designation of a property.
• Reflecting changed or changing conditions in a particular area or within the city generally.
• Rezoning of an area or extending the boundary of an existing zone district.
• Changing the regulations and restrictions as reasonably necessary to promote the health, safety, and general welfare of the public

Each zone district allows certain uses like: single family homes, retail stores, and manufacturing, and controls buildings through setback distance from property lines, building height limits, floor area limits and other limitations. The zoning code also makes provisions for signs and other provisions/restrictions/controls which will allow for the reasonable use of land having that given zone district designation.

 

To change how a given piece of land is zoned in order to develop and/or use the property in a manner not provided for under the property's existing zone district, a zone map amendment application (rezoning) must be filed with the Plan Implementation section of Community Planning and Development.  The application will be processed, referred to a number of City agencies for review, and sent to the Denver City Council as a quasi-judicial matter for final disposition.

 

Only the City Council can approve or deny a rezoning application based on findings of fact presented in a public hearing. Finally, the Mayor must sign the Council Bill into law.