Denver Approves Gas Station Limitations Text Amendment to Restrict New Development
- When: 2025/02/19
- Address: Citywide, Denver, CO
- City: Denver
- State: CO
- Category: Zoning Code Modification
- Subcategory: Limitations
- Asset Class: Commercial
- Property Type: Gas Station
The City and County of Denver approved a citywide text amendment to the Denver Zoning Code that significantly limits where new gas stations can be built. The amendment prohibits new gas stations within 1/4 mile of existing gas stations, rail transit stations, and within 300 feet of low-intensity residential districts. An exception applies for gas stations incorporated into retail stores of at least 20,000 square feet. The ordinance also prohibits the expansion of fueling services at most existing gas stations, except for the addition of electric vehicle charging infrastructure. The amendment aligns with Denver’s comprehensive urban planning strategies to prioritize mixed-use, walkable developments over auto-oriented land uses.
Why it Matters
This zoning change supports Denver’s long-term sustainability goals by preserving land for transit-friendly, mixed-use development. It also mitigates pedestrian-vehicle conflicts, improves air quality, and ensures better land use near transit corridors and urban centers.
