Page 26 - Denver, CO Adaptive Reuse Program

The Sewer Use and Drainage Permits (SUDP) division is housed
within Development Engineering Services with DOTI. For adap-
tive reuse projects, applicants typically interact with this division
regarding grease interceptors which require a plumbing and an
SUDP review. New grease interceptors are typically needed when
a restaurant or commercial kitchen changes the type of cuisine
served, increases seating capacity or changes the cooking applianc-
es used.

Each review group sets and charges their own fees individually.

Typical CPD Issues Encountered in Adaptive Reuse
With adaptive reuse applications, a series of reoccurring issues
were raised in conversations with City staff and those in the devel-
opment community. These issues are described below.

i. Zoning Code Requirements
For adaptive reuse applicants, zoning code requirements pose one
of the biggest hurdles to completing a successful project and open-
ing a small business in an adaptively reused space. While every
site and building present unique challenges, a series of common
zoning code-related challenges were raised by many who have
worked on an adaptive reuse project in the past. The following
items describe components of the zoning code that often become
obstacles for completing an adaptive reuse project.

a. Provide flexibility to adaptive reuse projects in Main
Street Zone Districts
The majority of properties along the East Colfax corridor are in
the Main Street Zone District, although the specifications may
change. While the Zone District is well-intentioned to create a
corridor that is pedestrian-scaled, safe, has active street edges, and
is walkable, it often creates challenges for adaptive reuse projects.
These projects are not recognized in the general purpose state-
ment of the zone district, but instead, the focus remains on en-
suring new development positively contributes to the established
character of the corridor. Abiding by the standards established
for new development, including the build-to requirements and
parking standards, can be a challenge for adaptive reuse project
applicants.

b. Setbacks and Build-To Requirements
Lots are often small along Colfax, so any requirements that eat
into the developable area make it increasingly difficult for a proj-
ect to pencil. Setbacks for properties along the Colfax corridor
are most often 0’. Build-to requirements, therefore, are what
applicants must follow. Front and rear build-to requirements were
frequently raised as problematic for some lots, especially those that

22 City of Denver, CO