FAQs
Who does this new code impact?
The new Landscape Ordinance will only apply to new development and some large redevelopment in Edgewater. Development includes new residential, mixed-use, commercial, civic and institutional primary structures, as well as new or expanded parking lots. Only redevelopment that involves replacing an entire structure or the expansion of a building’s footprint by more than 500 square feet will be required to comply with the ordinance. Existing landscapes in Edgewater are not required to comply with the updated landscape ordinance.
How will this change the look and feel of Edgewater’s landscapes?
Established landscapes on properties not undergoing redevelopment will remain unchanged by this ordinance. New water-wise landscapes will incorporate a variety of water wise principles including the use of mulch, native and drought-tolerant plants, and trees in the landscape. Contrary to popular belief, water wise landscaping is not desertscaping or “zeroscaping”. For example, in single-family residential development, 65% of the front yard and 50% of the back yard must consist of living plant material. The ordinance promotes flexibility and will create diverse, colorful, lush and multipurpose outdoor spaces in Edgewater.
Will this make new homes and properties more expensive?
Water-wise landscapes are typically more expensive for a developer or homeowner to install than traditional cool season turf lawns. This could initially increase new home prices. However, water-wise landscaped homes have been shown to have higher property values than those with traditional lawns, and property owners will save on much lower water bills over time.
Will less grass mean a hotter Edgewater?
In Colorado, water wise landscaping focuses on using native Colorado plants to reduce water use and provide environmental benefits. One of those benefits is cooling the surrounding environment. A study conducted by the Desert Research Institute found that if a low water landscape includes living plant material and shade trees, cooling during the daytime can be equivalent to the cooling benefits of cool season turfgrass. Edgewater’s landscape code includes both living plant material requirements and shade tree requirements to ensure our community is prepared to combat a hotter future.