The city will change its landscaping rules to prohibit “non-functional turf” and encourage native and climate-resilient vegetation.
The city of Denver is revamping its landscaping requirements to encourage more sustainable, resilient landscaping. As Ysabelle Kempe explains in Smart Cities Dive, the new rules will apply to new developments and some redevelopment projects in the city.
The new rules will be established after a public engagement process that will begin in 2025. “Across Denver, non-functional turf covers areas along roadways and in medians and parking lots. A 2024 study finds that 74% of Denver’s turf is on private land, according to a Dec. 9 presentation by city staff to the budget and policy committee.” The city also has some of the lowest tree canopy coverage at 15 percent.
A Colorado state law passed earlier this year bans non-functional and artificial turf in commercial, industrial, and institutional developments. Denver’s updated regulations will apply to all landscaping in the city and county, but will not affect existing landscaping.
FULL STORY: Climate resilience top of mind for Denver as it plans to revamp landscaping rules
California Agency Awards $38 Million for Turf Replacement
The grant funds grass replacement rebates for commercial and residential properties and water-saving devices for fire stations.
Rebuilding Smarter: How LA County Is Guiding Fire-Ravaged Communities Toward Resilience
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FEMA Resilience Program Cuts Grant Funding
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Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
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Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
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Ken Jennings Launches Transit Web Series
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Washington Legislature Passes Rent Increase Cap
A bill that caps rent increases at 7 percent plus inflation is headed to the governor’s desk.
From Planning to Action: How LA County Is Rethinking Climate Resilience
Chief Sustainability Officer Rita Kampalath outlines the County’s shift from planning to implementation in its climate resilience efforts, emphasizing cross-departmental coordination, updated recovery strategies, and the need for flexible funding.
New Mexico Aging Department Commits to Helping Seniors Age ‘In Place’ and ‘Autonomously’ in New Draft Plan
As New Mexico’s population of seniors continues to grow, the state’s aging department is proposing expanded initiatives to help seniors maintain their autonomy while also supporting family caregivers.
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