It’s been almost three years since Denver voters approved the voter initiative known as the Green Roofing ordinance, which required Denver buildings to add green components to their roofing systems. Over three years the ordinance has seen changes, tweaks, but has followed its goal of creating a more environmentally friendly skyline for the City of Denver.
Now the first report on the project’s impact has been released to the public which shows Denver contractors and building owners are taking advantage of reflective roofing and other green components. Thinking about green eco-roofing? You’ll want to find an experienced green Denver roofing company. But first…
History of the Green Roofing Ordinance
The Green Roofing Ordinance was originally passed as part of a voter organized ballot initiative. Despite being outspent by their opposition 10-1, the initiative passed.
The first iteration of the green roofing ordinance required any buildings over 25,000 square feet to install “green” roofing components during repair or installation. Green roofing components included vegetation, planting medium, and other live growth on rooftops.
The initial bill was deemed too expensive and difficult to follow from contractors, city building officials, and even from the original bill’s proponents. In November 2018, the bill was amended to allow for environmentally-conscious roofing materials instead of green components which are more affordable and easier to install than planted roofs.
The changes to the law allowed for a broader choice of environmentally friendly roofing material like solar panels, solar shingles, cool roofs, stormwater retention systems, and much more. The addition of several hundred new green components has Denver more eco-conscious than its been in years.
“Developers, property owners, and project teams are participating in important conversations around the value of higher-performing buildings, both to the environment and for the people who live and work in as well as visit these places,” said Laura E. Aldrete, executive director, Denver Community Planning and Development.
Today’s Impact of the Green Ordinance
“The Green Buildings Ordinance has accelerated the citywide conversation about the role of our built environment in combating climate change,” said Grace Rink, executive director, Denver Office of Climate Action, Sustainability and Resiliency. “New codes and programs, including the Denver Green Code adopted in December 2019, will build upon this foundation to work toward our community’s climate action goals.”
While the original law envisioned acres of green roofs across Denver, the changes allow for environmentally friendly building materials without stifling new developments. If you’re considering replacing or repairing the roof, think over your options and transform your dull roof into a green paradise.
You can read the city’s full report on green roofing’s impact on the Mile-High City at Denvergov.org/GreenRoofs.
