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Building

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1. What is a building permit?

A building permit is a binding document giving the City’s permission to proceed with a project that has been reviewed by the Building Division and requires inspection by a Building Inspector prior to approval and occupancy.

2. Why do I need a building permit?

Any owner or authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by the building code approved by the City of Centennial, or to cause any such work to be done, must make application to the Chief Building Official and obtain the required permit.

3. What size fence can I build?

A fence permit is needed from the Building Division to build fences 6-feet in height and above. Fences below 6-feet go through review and permitting in the Planning and Development Department, and do not require a permit through the Building Division. Fence & Signs

4. What is the Building Division?

The Building Division is responsible for ensuring the life safety of all persons in the City of Centennial relating to the construction of all commercial and residential structures, through enforcing complaince of the 2003 International Codes. This is acheived by completing examinations of submitted plans and conducting necessary inspections to assure compliance with all City of Centennial building codes and ordinances. Building Division

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Business License

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1. What kind of business is required to obtain a Business License?

Any entity or person operating a business within the City must obtain a City of Centennial Business License.

Business means trades, vocations, occupations, professions, enterprises and establishments and all other activities which are conducted for gain, financial profit, advantage, or benefit either directly or indirectly, any location in the city.

If a business is also required to have a Retail Sales Tax License, the Retail Sales Tax License serves as a Business License. A business is not required to obtain both licenses.

If a business is not required to have a Retail Sales Tax License and has a physical location in the City of Centennial, that business is required to have a Business License.

2. Since I’m required to obtain a Business License, what’s in it for me?

The City’s Business License program is an important registration process that allows the City to know the number, type, location, and size of the businesses located in and doing business in the City. This information is used to provide important planning information to the City’s Planning & Development and Economic Development Departments. Long and short range planning uses this information to best serve the citizens and the existing businesses in the City.

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Code Enforcement

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1. Who do I call to have weeds cleared from a vacant lot or my neighbor’s yard?

The accumulation of weeds depreciates property values, creates health and fire hazards, and encourages the proliferation of pests and rodents. The City of Centennial Municipal Code requires residential property owners of an acre or less to cut their turf grass and weeds and to keep them under a height of eight inches. Owners/Occupants are also responsible for maintaining the alley immediately behind their property and the sidewalk areas in front of their property.

This does not apply to:

• Flower gardens, shrubberies, vegetable gardens, small grain plots within property zoned to permit agricultural use;


• Natural grasses utilized preliminarily for erosion control;


• Pastures within property zoned to permit agricultural use, pastures used for feed, fodder or forage, provided same are adequately weeded and maintained;


• Any vacant or undeveloped lot zoned O (Open);


• Any part or portion of a residentially zoned lot larger than one acre in size that is not artificially irrigated and is left in a natural condition.

Report a Violation

2. How do I get an inoperable or abandoned car removed from my neighbor’s property?

An inoperable car parked on private property and visible from the street or other property is considered a “public nuisance” by the City of Centennial. An inoperable car is defined as having an expired license plate or inspection sticker and is wrecked, dismantled or otherwise visually inoperative. If inoperable cars are a problem, the first step should always be a friendly request to your neighbor to remove the cars.

If this does not work, please submit an online Citizen Response form or call the City's 24-Hour Call Center at (303) 325-8000.
Report a Violation

3. Who do I contact about an inoperable vehicle / trailer on public or private property?

Any vehicle, including trailers and recreational vehicles, parked or authorized to be parked on private property must be currently registered and operable.

A vehicle is defined as an automobile, truck, motorcycle, motorbike, boat, trailer, camper, house trailer or similar mode of wheeled transportation.

A trailer is defined as any form of non-automotive vehicle, sled or equipment designed to be towed by a vehicle.

Inoperable is defined as the inability to be lawfully or mechanically operated on a public street due to circumstances such as lack of current and valid state license plate, flat tires, missing engine or physical damage.

Tips on Compliance Methods for Inoperable Vehicle/Trailer Violations:

• Make any necessary mechanical repairs to the vehicle, so that it will be considered operable.


• Obtain a valid license plate and registration for the vehicle, so that is will be considered operable.


• Move the vehicle from the public right-of-way into your garage (if still inoperable); inoperable vehicles cannot be stored in the driveway.


• If making the vehicle legally operable will cause hardship, you might consider donating the vehicle to a charity.
Report a Violation

4. What can I do about disruptive noise?

Excessive noise can be a hazard to the public health, safety, welfare and quality of life; and residents and visitors have the right to, and an expectation of, an environment free from excessive sound.

According to Centennial’s Noise Ordinance No. 2007-O-16 issued on August 20, 2007 it is considered unlawful for any person to make, continue or cause to be made or continued, any excessive or unusually loud noise which (a) disturbs, annoys or endangers the peace, repose, comfort, safety or health of others; or (b) endangers or injures personal or real property.

If you feel that excessive noise or sound is jeopardizing your health, safety or welfare, please contact the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office at (720) 795-4711. A Sheriff’s deputy will be dispatched to investigate the complaint and determine whether or not the noise is considered a violation of the code.

Exceptions to the noise prohibition include:

• Operation of emergency vehicles;


• Operation of train, aircraft or other activity subject to federal law;


• Mechanical devices or equipment used, related or connected with an emergency machine;


• Operation of snowplows;


• Use of property for occasional public cultural, athletic entertainment or patriotic events;


• Noises emanating from school property during school or school sponsored events;


• Public utility operations;


• Lawful professional outdoor fireworks display.

Contact the Arapahoe County Sheriff's Office

5. Can I operate a business from home?

Yes, if it complies with the definitions and restrictions placed upon home-based businesses as defined in the Land Development Code:

• Home-based businesses must be conducted entirely within the principal dwelling structure;


• The home-based business may be conducted only by the residents of the principal dwelling; there may not be any employees;


• A home-based business may not change the appearance or character of the dwelling or the neighborhood;


• A home-based business may not generate an amount of traffic that affects the residential character of the neighborhood;


• The home occupation shall be conducted only by residents of the principal dwelling;


• There shall be no visible advertising of the home occupation on the premises upon which it is located;
  
• There shall be no outdoor storage of goods or materials associated with the home occupation;


• There shall be no excessive or offensive noise, vibration, smoke, dust, odors, heat, glare or light, or dumping of materials produced by the home occupation.

6. My neighbor operates a business from his or her home and the traffic is causing problems. Who do I call to complain?

If you believe your neighbor is operating a business from his or her home and not following the City’s regulations, please submit a Citizen Response form or call the City's 24-Hour Call Center at (303) 325-8000.

7. How do I report a code violation?

To report code violations, please submit a Citizen Response form or call the City's 24-Hour Call Center at (303) 325-8000.

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Contractor Licensing

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1. Who is required to obtain a contractor license?

All contractors and subcontractors preforming work in the City of Centennial are required to obtain a contractors license. Contractor Licensing

2. What is the city's testing requirements for licensing?

The City requires the following types of contractors to submit proof of testing in order to obtain a license: General contractors class A, B, and C, HVAC, and Steam and Hot Water.

3. Does the City of Centennial accept other cities licensing/testing?

The City of Centennial has reciprocity with the following jurisdictions: Denver, Aurora, and Littleton. We also accept ICC testing.

4. Does the City of Centennial require a business license?

The City does not require a business license at this time. However, any retail business located within the City will need to obtain a State Sales Tax License from the Colorado Department of Revenue. Colorado Department of Revenue

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Court

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1. How do I get to the Court office?

Take East Arapahoe Road to S. Potomac St. Turn north on Potomac, and then take an immediate left onto East Euclid Drive. Follow Euclid Drive accross S. Vaughn St.

You have reached the Centennial Civic Center and the court is located on the Lower Level.

2. What do I do in severe weather?

During severe weather conditions you can call the main phone number, (303) 325-8000, for information on office closures, which includes the Municipal Court office.

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Coyote

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1. Why Are Coyotes Here In The City?

Coyotes have always been in the city, but reports of conflicts are on the rise. Residential areas provide habitat for coyotes. Plentiful food sources exist such as mice, rabbits, and squirrels. Urban coyotes have also learned to take advantage of the ample human-associated foods, such as garbage, pet food, birdseed and compost piles. Some coyotes have also learned that unattended pets are an easy food source. Shelter and water can be found in parks, yards and natural areas.

2. Why Are Conflicts On The Rise?

Coyotes have learned to thrive in many of the urban areas and the coyotes are where they belong. In some areas of the state, coyotes have created conflicts, and in other parts, they have not. Coyotes have adapted to the easy way of life, and as they continue to habituate to the urban life style, coyote conflicts are sure to increase. It is essential that people understand why coyotes are drawn to the places where people live and do what they can to remove the things that attract the coyotes to the areas around our homes.

3. Can’t the Coyotes Be Captured And Taken Back Where They Belong?

Urban coyotes are where they belong. Generation after generation of coyotes have been born and raised in the cities and have adapted to the easy life (ample food, good shelter and areas with little to no human harassment) that the cities provide them. Although there are varying opinions on whether coyotes should be in the city, the reality is, habitat dictates where coyotes reside and how many will live there.

4. There are too many coyotes in the city. Can’t we reduce their numbers?

Cities provide ample habitat for coyotes. They have adapted to not only live, but to thrive, in residential communities. It is the habitat that dictates how many coyotes are in an area. With collaborative efforts, we can influence people’s actions and possibly coyote behavior. It’s important to know that Centennial is not the only city dealing with coyote conflicts. Many eradication programs have been attempted in other North American cities - all have proven to be expensive failures. Even the best eradication efforts cannot remove all of the coyotes and research has proven that such eradication will cause the remaining coyotes to breed and create larger litters. Thus, removal programs lead to increased reproduction by the remaining coyote populations and populations quickly meet or exceed pre-control numbers.

5. What attracts coyotes to my yard or neighborhood?

Coyotes are attracted to neighborhoods due to the availability of their natural food sources and due to ample garbage, pet food and birdfeeders. Some coyotes have also discovered that pets are easy prey. Very few residents and neighborhoods take steps to deter or haze coyotes away from people. Thus, as more and more coyotes have been welcomed into the city, and have adapted to the presence of humans, they have also lost their fear of us.

6. Is it Illegal to Feed Coyotes?

A coyote that associates humans with food may become demanding. The Colorado Division of Wildlife prohibits the feeding of coyotes in the cities, and discourages the feeding of ALL wildlife. There are some cities in the surrounding Denver Metro area, which have ordinances against the feeding of wildlife. Please report individuals feeding coyotes to the Colorado Division of Wildlife at (303) 291-7227.

7. I Have Observed Coyotes In My Neighborhood And Now I Am Afraid To Go Outside. What Do I Do?

Colorado is blessed with a variety of wildlife species; such as bear, mountain lions, foxes and coyotes, to name a few. That’s why many people choose to call Colorado “home.” Coyotes are statewide, so whether you live in or outside of the city, you may see or encounter a coyote. Having a general understanding of coyotes, and other urban wildlife, may help minimize some of the fears that you may have. There is a lot of misinformation about coyotes, and being prepared and educating yourself about them, may relieve some of the concerns you have. Some steps you can take to minimize a coyote encounter could include: Carrying a walking stick or a type of deterrent. Deterrents can include rocks, vinegar in a water gun, airhorns or a repellent spray (such as Citranella or pepperspray).

8. How do I protect my children?

Educate your children about the presence of urban wildlife and teach them to NEVER approach wild animals or dogs they don’t know and to NEVER feed wildlife. Teach them the steps mentioned under – “What should I do if a coyote approaches me?”

9. When are coyotes a risk to me?

Coyotes are naturally curious but are usually timid animals and normally run away if confronted. If a coyote is too close or approaches you, scare/haze it away. If a person is injured or attacked by a coyote, please contact the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office immediately (911). Although rare, there are documented human attacks by coyotes. Most of these have been in association with coyotes being fed by people, that is why it is illegal to feed wildlife. Urban coyotes have also learned to take advantage of the ample human-associated foods, such as garbage, pet food, birdseed and compost piles. Some coyotes have also learned that unattended pets are an easy food source. It is our responsibility to remove all sources of food from our yards – removing the reason that the coyotes are attracted.

10. What do I do if I am approached by a coyote?

Do not run or turn your back on a coyote. Be as big and loud as possible. Wave your arms, clap your hands and throw objects at the coyote. Shout in a loud authoritative voice. If the coyote does not leave the area, face the coyote and back away slowly.

11. How Can I Protect My Pets?

Cat Owners: The best way to guarantee your cats safety is to keep it indoors. Cats allowed to roam face potential death from cars, diseases, coyotes, foxes, raccoons, dogs and birds of prey, such as owls.

Dog Owners: Always supervise your pet outside, especially at dawn and dusk. If you must leave your dog outside, secure it in a fully enclosed kennel. Keep your pets on a short leash and never let them interact or play with wildlife. Avoid known or potential den sites and thick vegetation where coyotes may seek cover. Pick up small dogs when coyotes are visible.

12. When are they most active?

• Coyotes can be active any time, day or night, but especially at dawn and dusk.
• Conflicts with pets can occur year-round and are more likely to occur during the breeding season (February and March).
• Because young are born in the spring, food requirements of the nursing females and growing young remain high until late summer. As people and their pets spend more time outdoors during this time, the possibility of a coyote encounter increases.

13. How do I balance protecting my pets and respecting wildlife?

Learning to actively coexist with wildlife is the key to balancing the protection of pets and other property with the importance of respecting wildlife. The following are important things to do:
• Remove habitat from your yard – look in your yard for the things that are attracting wildlife, particularly coyotes and remove those things. Bird feeders, compost piles, fruit trees, wood piles or other places where small rodents live, water ponds and fountains, bushes that are low to the ground, and decks where there is hiding space underneath, etc. are all places where wildlife are attracted for food, water and shelter.
• NEVER feed wildlife – Many of the items above provide food for wildlife. NEVER intentionally feed wildlife. If you know anyone that is feeding wildlife please call the Colorado Division of Wildlife. It is illegal to feed wildlife and neighbors that are feeding wildlife are not only breaking the law, they are contributing to the problems with coyotes in your neighborhood.
• Learn as much as you can about the wildlife in Colorado. Be aware that you are living in the same spaces as the wildlife.
• NEVER go into the parks and recreation areas, away from the groomed areas, where the coyotes live. Stay on the park trails and keep dogs on 6’ leashes at all times. Disrupting the natural living spaces of the coyotes only creates a bigger problem.
• Talk with your neighbors about how, as a community, you can solve the problems and enjoy actively coexisting with wildlife. It is really important that communities work together to address a multitude of problems, from graffiti, noise reduction, traffic issues, child safety, and conflicts with coyotes and wildlife. Putting information in your community newsletter and talking about how to help each other create a place where enjoyment of wildlife returns is a long-term solution to this issue.

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Finance Department

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1. How do I find out if an address is in the boundaries of the City of Centennial?

Please visit the Arapahoe County Assessor's Parcel Search. Once you pull up the address click on the Tax District Levies link to the right of the address. If the property is in Centennial, you will see City of Centennial listed under the Taxing Authority. Arapahoe County Assessor's Parcel Search

2. I have a franchise fee on my Comcast, Xcel Energy, or IREA bill. How much is the franchise fee?

The franchise fees are a percent of the gross Centennial revenues. The franchisees pass the franchise fee directly through to customers. The franchise fees are:
5% Comcast
3% Xcel Energy
3% IREA

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Neighborhood Organizations

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1. What is Neighborhood Planning?

Neighborhood planning is an opportunity for citizens to take an active role in the future of their neighborhood. The neighborhood planning process involves citizens, businesses, local stakeholders, City departments, community organizations and institutions working together to address land use, transportation, service delivery and other quality of life issues. The goal is to promote mutual responsibility and joint problem solving.

2. What is a Neighborhood/Homeowner Association (HOA)?

Neighborhood associations are formally recognized associations which offer an opportunity for citizens to participate in decision-making for their neighborhood. They are either created by the developer of a neighborhood or by the residents of a neighborhood, often when there is an identified issue affecting the area. Some memberships are voluntary and open to all citizens who live or own property within the organization’s boundaries; however, most are not. Per covenants that run with the land, ownership automatically makes you a member in the HOA. Neighborhood associations draw a great diversity of people who work together to improve the livability of their neighborhood.

While each neighborhood organization differs depending on the needs of its residents, most are concerned with issues that affect the quality of life in the community. This may include issues such as land use, crime, public safety and traffic, and community services.

3. What is the Centennial Council of Neighborhoods (CenCON)?

CenCON is comprised of Neighborhood Association representatives within the City of Centennial. Prior to the incorporation of Centennial, neighborhood associations of unincorporated Arapahoe County belonged to a single umbrella group known as Arapahoe County Council of Organized Responsible Development (ACCORD). With the incorporation of Centennial, CenCON was established from ACCORD to perform the same services for neighborhood associations within the boundaries of Centennial. Current CenCON membership represents approximately 22,000 Centennial homes in about 59 different Neighborhood Associations.

CenCON meets monthly to gather important information from the various civic authorities. Meetings are attended by CenCON representatives that are elected or appointed by each member association. The CenCON representative brings information discussed in these meetings back to the association for dissemination to homeowners by means of monthly meetings, newsletters, etc.

The monthly meetings are open to the public, but CenCON reserves the right to limit public comment.

CenCON has no legislative authority and is effective only by working cooperatively with City officials as the collective voice of Centennial residents.

In addition, CenCON reviews development plans for projects within the City of Centennial and gives requested critical input as an official referral agency of the City’s Planning & Development Department. The input from CenCON is seriously considered by the Mayor and City Council in their decisionmaking process.

To contact CenCON, please call (303) 771-0115 or visit the CenCON Web site at www.cencon.net.

4. How do I organize a volunteer neighborhood association?

The first step in starting a neighborhood association is to check for existing neighborhood organizations in and around your neighborhood. You may find it more beneficial to your neighborhood to be included within the boundaries of another organization rather than starting a new neighborhood association.
View Registered Neighborhood Orgs

If you decide to start your own neighborhood organization, the following guidelines should be considered:

1. Seek professional legal and tax advice for state requirements on not-for-profit organization incorporation;
2. Determine boundaries of the planned neighborhood association;
3. Widely promote information about an initial meeting to organize a new neighborhood association;
4. Include everyone that lives or owns property as a potential member of the association;
5. Identify a regular meeting time and place;
6. Elect officers and adopt by-laws;
7. Register with the City of Centennial (see next question);
8. Keep everyone in your neighborhood informed about association activities.

5. How do I register my neighborhood organization?

To register your neighborhood organization with the City, visit the Neighborhoods section of our site where you will find the link for the Homeowners Association Application. Be sure to complete your request by clicking "Submit" at the bottom of the application. Visit the Neighborhoods Page...

6. Why should I register my neighborhood organizaton with the City of Centennial?

Registering your neighborhood organization with the City is important because it allows others to know about your organization and is also a way for the City to keep you up to date on news and events that may affect your neighborhood.

7. How do I report a change in my organization?

To report a change within your organization with the City, you may log onto www.CentennialColorado.com and click on the Living tab at the top of the screen. Then click on Neighborhoods on the drop-down menu. This will take you to our Neighborhood page where you will find a link for a Homeowners Association Application. Click on this link and re-enter your organization information with the appropriate changes. Be sure to finish by clicking Post at the bottom of the application.

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Neighborhood Safety

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1. What does neighborhood watch do?

A neighborhood watch is neighbors watching neighbors. They are the extra eyes and ears for reporting crime and helping law enforcement. Members learn how to make their homes more secure, watch out for each other and report activity that raises their suspicions to the Sheriff’s Office.

2. Why Neighborhood Watch?

It works. Throughout the country, law enforcement professionals in communities with active Watch programs report dramatic decreases in burglary and related offenses. Today’s transient society produces communities that are less personal. Many families have two working parents and children involved in activities that keep them away from home. An empty home in a neighborhood where none of the neighbors know the owner is a prime target for burglary. Neighborhood Watch serves as a springboard for efforts that address other community concerns such as recreation for youth, child care, and affordable housing.

3. How can I start a Neighborhood Watch program?

1. Citizens and the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office working in partnership to reduce crime and improve the quality of life in neighborhoods.


2. A cohesive body of citizens addressing issues that concern the entire community.


3. Neighbors getting to know each other, taking the time to care about each other and working together in a program of mutual assistance.

Neighborhood Watch programs are known to instill a greater sense of security, well-being and reduce the fear of crime in your community, as well as create a greater “sense of community” by putting the “neighbor” back into neighborhood. By communicating with each other and working together as a team, your community can make a difference.

If your homeowners association or watch program would like to have a Sheriff’s deputy come talk about community policing, crime prevention tips, and/or the Neighborhood Watch Program, call the Arapahoe County Crime Prevention Unit at (720) 874-3746 to request a presentation.

In order to start a Neighborhood Watch Program, it is important to consider the following:

1. Define your neighborhood geographically. Start small – 30 to 35 homes – so you and your neighbors can get to know each other.


2. Talk to your neighbors. What are their issues? What nights are they available for a meeting? Where should the meeting be held?


3. Call the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office’s Crime Prevention Unit at (720) 874- 3746 and schedule a mutually agreeable date and time for the first meeting.


4. Ask neighbors to be Co-Captains (one neighbor per 15 homes).


5. Start a committee with interested neighbors to plan the first meeting. Assign someone to: market/advertise the meeting, make/buy food, meeting logistics (name tags, copy of sign-in sheet, pens). Focus on the “3 F’s” which are Food, Fun and Free things.
   
   • Advertise the meeting to your neighbors. Invite ALL your neighbors (in your geographical area). Deliver flyers to each home. Involve the children of your community by asking them to help by delivering the flyers.
   
   
   • Call to confirm with Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office’s Crime Prevention Unit representative 48 hours prior to the meeting.
   
   
   • Set up a welcome table before the meeting begins with the sign-in sheet, name tags, and any applicable material provided by the Sheriff’s Office.

4. How can I protect my neighborhood from graffiti?

The Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office is committed to effective community partnerships and problem solving, and has developed an innovative graffiti removal program.
Initially, the graffiti clean-up program is limited to graffiti removal from public property or property within the public right of way in the areas patrolled by the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office. Once the capacity and the demand for the service are determined, the program may be offered to other communities within Arapahoe County.

The goal is to remove graffiti within one week of being reported. Citizens are encouraged to report graffiti on public property by contacting the Arapahoe County’s Sheriff’s Office at (303) 795-4711. Individuals providing information that result in the arrest and conviction of those responsible for graffiti vandalism in Arapahoe County may be eligible for monetary awards.

5. Where can I recycle and dispose of toxic waste?

The City of Centennial participates with Arapahoe County in funding a household hazardous waste curbside pick-up service for residents. Centennial residents pay $20 to dispose of as many things as will fit into a big plastic trash bag supplied by the pickup company.

To request a pickup or to simply get more information, you may call 1-800-449-7587 or go to Curbside and click on Residential. You can also download a curbside pickup brochure. This service will not pick up some items, such as ammunition, old computers or biological waste.

If Curbside Inc. does not serve your zip code please contact hotline@curbsideinc.com or call 800-HHW-PKUP (800-449-7587) and ask if a program exists in your area. If it is possible to service your area and no agreement in place with your specific neighborhood, Curbside may offer you the opportunity to pay for the service. Visit the Clean & Green page...

6. Where do I call to report a chemical spill?

If you experience or witness a chemical spill, please call the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment at their 24 Hour Toll Free Line 1-877-518-5608. In case of a serious emergency please call 911.

7. What do I do with leftover paint and oil in my garage?

Residents of unincorporated Arapahoe County, City of Centennial, Town of Foxfield and Town of Deer Trail may utilize a service that is available by appointment only, for home pick-up or drop-off. Participants must have at least three different items and may bring up to 125 pounds of chemical waste to the center per appointment. Prior arrangements can be made to accept more than the 125-pound limit. However, you will be required to pay the disposal costs for any additional waste. In addition to the 125-pound limit, residents may also bring five auto batteries and five fluorescent light tubes.

Call 1-800-HHW-PKUP (1-800-449-7587) to schedule an appointment. When you speak to an operator, he or she will explain the program and ask you a few questions, including the type and amount of material you will be bringing. An appointment will be arranged at that time. You may also email your name, address and phone number to Curbside, Inc. at hotline@curbsideinc.com, then an operator will contact you to schedule your appointment.

The service will take cleaners and waxes, fertilizers, fungicide, pesticides, herbicides, insecticides, used oil, flammables such as lighter fluid and mineral spirits, fluorescent lighting tubes, paint, paint thinner, varnishes and stains, fuels, antifreeze, small mercury-containing devices (limit two thermostats and two thermometers), vehicle and household batteries, adhesives, aerosols, art/hobby supplies, nail polish and remover, spot remover and shoe polish.

Items that will not be accepted include business or commercial wastes, radioactive waste or smoke detectors, explosives or ammunition, fire extinguishers, gas cylinders, PCBs, TVs or other electronics, tires, appliances, unmarked or leaking containers, syringes, infectious or biomedical waste.
Additional fees may be required for some items.

For additional information call 1-800-HHW-PKUP (1-800-449-7587) or download the brochure on the Arapahoe County Web site.
Download Arapahoe County Brochure

8. Who do I call to report pollution in the creek in my neighborhood?

In the event that you witness the polluting of a creek, you should call the Southeast Metro Stormwater Authority’s (SEMSWA) Stormwater Specialist at (303) 858-8844. In fact, SEMSWA may be contacted to report any pollution relating to stormwater. SEMSWA will investigate the complaint and follow-up with any necessary actions. You should call 911 if the polluting seems hazardous or in any way poses an immediate danger, such as a fuel spill in a drainageway.

9. Who do I call to report flooding or drainage problems in my neighborhood?

It’s normal to see standing water in residential neighborhoods in larger rain events. However, the inlets do require maintenance, as they can become clogged by debris. If you notice debris clogged inlets or other usual stormwater related problems, SEMSWA may be contacted at (303) 858-8844.

Detention and water quality features, such as ponds, are normal and necessary features in residential areas for both flood control and water quality. These features commonly hold water for an extended period of time (up to 72 hours). Detention and water quality features require maintenance in order to function properly. These types of facilities are typically owned and maintained by the Neighborhood Association, SEMSWA, or another governmental or quasi-governmental agency. If you believe a detention or water quality facility needs maintenance because of debris or excessive standing water, your Neighborhood Association and SEMSWA should be contacted.

Please do not place fill (anything that might inhibit the flow of water) in the floodplain without proper City and SEMSWA permits and approval. Such unauthorized fill can change the limits of the floodplain and affect surrounding neighbors. If you recognize such unauthorized fill, please contact SEMSWA’s Floodplain Management department at (303) 858-8844.

10. How can our neighborhood get more street lights?

The City of Centennial contracts with Xcel Energy and Intermountain Rural Electric Association (IREA) for street light services. Requests can be made for street light installations on public right of ways provided the requester and the City are able and willing to fund the work.

In all cases, requests should be sent to Centennial Public Works to review and facilitate the process. This can be done by submitting an online request or by calling the City of Centennial's 24-Hour Call Center at (303) 325-8000.

11. Who do I call to replace a burned out or broken street light?

For streetlight outages or repairs, you will need to contact your energy provider at Xcel Energy or IREA depending on where you live or the location of the street light.

• To contact Xcel Energy you may call 1-800-960-6235 (available 24 hours a day) or visit Xcel Energy and fill out a request form.


• To contact IREA you may call (303) 688-3100 during regular business hours or (303) 688-0650 for after hours or visit IREA.

12. To report a broken traffic signal?

To report a broken traffic signal, light or any other signal problem, please submit an online request or call the city's 24-Hour Call Center at (303) 325-8000.

13. Who do I call to report a missing stop sign?

To report a missing stop sign, please submit an online request or call the city's 24-Hour Call Center at (303) 325-8000.

14. Who do I call to request a stop sign/signal or other traffic calming changes in my neighborhood?

The City does not install certain traffic control devices to control speed, such as speed bumps/humps, drainage cross-pans and stop signs. Colorado State Statute determines that the legal speed limit in a residential area be 30 MPH. This limit cannot be lowered unless a traffic study determines that this speed is unsafe for the existing conditions.

If you would like to request additional signs or signals in your area, please submit an online request or call the city's 24-Hour Call Center at (303) 325-8000. The Public Works Department will mail you a Traffic Engineering Services form to fill out a request for changes in signing, striping and/or signalization. Once received, the Traffic & Transportation Division will schedule a traffic study to investigate the request. A notice will be mailed to inform you of the findings and recommendations when the investigation is complete.

15. Who do I call to repair a pothole on my street?

To report any street, sidewalk, curb/gutter, handicap ramp or pavement repair issues, please submit an online request or call the city's 24-Hour Call Center at (303) 325-8000. Reports received will be logged, categorized and inspected for possible remediation and repair. A representative from the Public Works Department will respond to your request the next business day for non-emergency weekend/holiday inquiries. In some cases, the response may be an acknowledgement of the call or request with a commitment of the timeframe in which a full response will be provided.

Public Works attempts to repair potholes within a day or two of receiving the information, weather permitting.

16. Who do I call to trim trees growing into power lines?

The City of Centennial Department of Public Works does not address tree trimming, limb removal or other obstructions within the power lines. If you have trees growing into power lines, you will need to contact either Xcel Energy at 1-800-960-6235 (available 24 hours a day) or Intermountain Rural Electric Association (IREA) at (303) 688-3100 during regular business hours or (303) 688-0650 for after hours depending on where you live.

However, the City of Centennial Public Works Department will address fallen limbs, branches, tree trunks and or blown over tree debris that encroaches upon or presents a hazard on City streets and other public property. Citizens can report these issues and concerns to the City of Centennial Public Works 24-Hour Call Center at (303) 325-8000.

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Public Safety - Curfew

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1. What time is curfew in effect?

Curfew Hours are before 5:00 am on any day. 11:00 pm is curfew on Sunday thru Thursday. Midnight (12:00 am) is curfew on Friday and Saturday and any day preceding an official State Holiday.

2. What age applies to the curfew?

Juveniles under the age of 18 are accountable to curfew hours in the unincorporated area of Arapahoe County.

3. What happens if I violate the curfew?

If you are a minor:

- You may be detained by a law enforcement officer;

- Your parents and/or legal guardians will be required to respond and take custody of you;

- You may be issued a summons that requires your appearance in the County Court;

- When making your court appearance, your parents or guardian must come with you;

- If found guilty, the Judge may impose fines, incarceration, and/or probation.

If you are a parent or guardian:

- You may be detained by a law enforcement officer;

- You will be required to respond and take custody of your child;

- If you allowed your child to violate the curfew, you may be issued a summons that requires your appearance in the County Court;

- If found guilty, the Judge may impose fines, incarceration and/or probation.

4. Are there exemptions to the curfew?

Yes, the following are exceptions to curfew violations:

- When accompanied by a parent, guardian, or other adult person having legal custody of such minor; or

- When the minor is engaged in lawful employment that requires the minor to violate the curfew; or

- When such minor is in the custody of, or accompanied by a person who has reached his or her 18th birthday, and has in his or her possession the written consent of such parent or guardian, or the person having legal care or custody of the minor.

- When the minor is legally emancipated.

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Public Works - County Line Road

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1. Will County Line Road be closed? If so, how long?

It is anticipated that an approximate four-month closure will be necessary only on the eastern end of the
project between S. Colorado Boulevard and the east end of the Copper Canyon apartment entrance, to fill
the 15-foot “dip” in the road at that location, complicated by several major utility relocations and installation
of drainageway culverts. No other closures are planned, and every effort will be made to keep the “dip”
closures as brief as possible. No accesses will be permanently closed.

2. When will construction begin? How long will construction take?

It is anticipated that construction will begin in early 2007 and take approximately 12 to 14 months.

3. What are the hours of operation during construction?

The typical hours of operation for a construction project are from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and there may be
work on Saturdays. There will be some night work around the University Boulevard and County Line Road
intersection for the construction of the concrete pavement and improvements to business accesses.

4. With the road closure, where will the detours be?

To detour traffic during the road closure, two alternative detour routes will be available. Beginning at the
intersection of Colorado Boulevard and County Line Road, the north route would use Colorado Boulevard
north to Dry Creek Road then follow this roadway west to University Boulevard then head south on University
Boulevard back to County Line Road. An alternative route to the south would again start at the intersection of
Colorado Boulevard and County Line Road and head south on Colorado Boulevard to University Boulevard
then north back to County Line Road along University Boulevard. Advance signing alerting drivers of these
detours would be provided along County Line Road and C-470 far in advance of the closure.

5. Will property be acquired for this project?

Yes, right-of-way (ROW) and easements will be required for this project. We anticipate needing ROW from two to three properties and easements from 24 properties with the final design of this project. No ROW impacts to single-family residences are anticipated at this time. Property owners will be contacted during the final design process with regard to property acquisitions.

6. Will there be utility relocations?

Yes, since County Line Road is a major corridor for utilities. The project includes filling in the “dip”, which will
require several relocations since utility companies do not want their lines to deep for maintenance reasons.
Precautions will be taken to continue service to the residents and businesses during construction.

7. What affect will construction have on the businesses on County Line Road?

It is our goal to minimize impacts during construction. We will maintain access to the businesses and we will
require the contractor to continue to coordinate with the businesses throughout the construction period.

8. Will there be noise walls along County Line Road? If so, how tall will they be and what will they look like?

Yes, noise walls will be provided along the north side of County Line Road between Colorado Boulevard and
the Denver Water property, between University Blvd. and just west of the eastern Plaza at Highlands Ranch
intersection and along the south side from Colorado Boulevard to the drainageway. They will vary between
8 foot and 10 foot in height. The walls will look different from the walls east of Colorado Boulevard. The City
of Centennial City Council made the final decision to use an aesthetic combination of brick and block wall
that will continue with the next project west of University Boulevard along County Line Road.

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Sales Tax

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1. What is the Sales Tax rate for the City of Centennial?

The Sales Tax rate for Centennial is 2.5 percent. The combined sales tax rate of 6.85 percent includes several jurisdiction and district taxes. Not all sales by all vendors should have the 6.85 percent sales tax collected. For example, only a sale to a customer located in the RTD/FD/SCFD district should include the combined 1.2 percent. If you have questions about what sales taxes should be collected on sales to your customers, please contact the City at 303.325.8000.

2. Why has Centennial decided to collect its own Sales Tax?

On June 10, 2008, Centennial residents adopted a home rule charter by a vote of 13,441 in favor to 6,436 opposed. As mandated in Centennial’s charter, the City is governed by a Council/Manager form of government. This system of governing consists of one Mayor, eight City Council members and a professional City Manager. Two Council members are elected from each of the City’s four districts while the Mayor is elected at large. The City Manager is appointed by the City Council and directly oversees the daily operations of the City. The City Council directs City policy while the City Manager is responsible for carrying out Council’s policies.

Since February 2001, the State of Colorado collected the City’s Sales Tax and sent it to the City. Often times the City would not receive the Sales Tax for 45 days after the date the State received it. In addition, the State determined which businesses should be audited and what is taxable and what is exempt from Sales Tax. Essentially, the State of Colorado administered the City’s Sales Tax program. While this was convenient, it may not have been as prudent from a revenue administration perspective as the City needed. The City notified the State of Colorado that effective January 1, 2009, the City would collect and administer its own Sales Tax. Collecting its own Sales Tax allows Centennial to determine the policies and procedures relating to Sales Tax and brings the Sales Tax revenue to the City when the returns are filed, not 45 days later.

3. How many other cities collect their own Sales Tax in the State of Colorado?

There are 66 home rule cities in the State of Colorado that collect their own sales tax.

4. When are the sales tax payments due?

Sales Tax Returns are to be filed and payments are to be made no later than the 20th day of the month after each filing period unless the 20th day falls on a Saturday, Sunday or holiday. In those cases, the return and payment are due the following business day. Payments will be considered late if they are mailed after the due date. Proof of mailing date must be from a U.S.P.S. postmark, not a meter mark. All returns filed after that date are considered late and therefore delinquent. Penalty and interest is due on the delinquent tax.

5. When is the filing period?

Each business that has a Retail Sales Tax License will have a filing period appropriate for the volume of Centennial sales tax collected. Some businesses might have a significant volume of sales for the State of Colorado to warrant filing the sales tax return each month. However, that same business might have a smaller volume of Centennial sales tax collected and might only need to file each quarter. The determination about how often a business files sales tax returns is made by the City. Requests for change in filing status should be made in writing and sent to the City.

6. What businesses are required to have a Retail Sales Tax License?

All businesses that sell taxable property or services into the City of Centennial are required to have a Retail Sales Tax License. These businesses include businesses that have a physical location inside the City and businesses located outside of the City, but have nexus and engage in business in the City.

7. The license application wants me to put down a NAICS Code and list lots of information about my business that doesn’t seem to apply to Sales Tax. Why does the City need to know that information?

The questions about NAICS, square footage of the business, type of business, etc. relate to the registration of the business and help the City by gathering information that assists the City’s planning and economic development efforts.

8. The license application asks for my Social Security Number. I don’t want to provide that unless I understand why that’s important to the City.

Since Sales Tax is a tax paid by the customer to the City and held in trust by the vendor/retail business, the information requested on the License Application is required so that the City has the necessary information in the event the retailer does not remit the sales tax to the City and it becomes necessary for the City to enforce the Ordinance. The answers to all of the questions in Section Two on the second page of the application are considered to be highly confidential and are not part of the City’s public records policy. Information provided in Section Two of the License Application is treated with the same confidentiality as the information on the returns that are filed by the vendor.

9. Why does my return and payment get mailed to a P.O. Box in Denver?

The City has contracted with a local bank to provide lockbox services. Lockbox services allow the City to focus on the recording of sales tax, customer service, audit services, and business registration management. A lockbox receives the license applications, sales tax returns and payments, and all other correspondence. The service records the receipt of the information and transmits that information to the City electronically. The sales tax payments are deposited directly into the City’s bank account. The lockbox process is allowing the City staff to focus time and resources on Sales Tax Administration and not cash receipting.

10. Can I just file and pay the taxes through the Web site?

Vendors may file the Sales Tax Return and pay sales tax collected to the City of Centennial through the City’s Web site. Payment of the Sales Tax is through an ACH (Automated Clearinghouse) payment from the vendor’s bank account. The on-line file and pay feature can be accessed through the City’s Web site by visiting the Online Payments page. Click on the button labeled “Taxpayer Access” under the feature titled, “Online Payments.”

11. Can I pay the sales tax with a credit card?

The City has made the decision not to provide the ability for vendors to pay sales tax due with credit cards. The credit card companies require that the City pay a percentage of the sales tax to the merchant service provider for the ability to use credit cards. Some cities pass that cost on to the vendors as a convenience fee. Centennial has decided not to pursue that method of payment at this time due to the cost to the City and/or the vendor.

12. I have questions about what the ordinance really says. Is it located on the Web site?

The City has posted the City of Centennial Sales and Use Tax Ordinance and the Business License Ordinance on the City’s Web site under Taxes and Licenses

13. Does the City have a General Use Tax?

The City of Centennial does not have a General Use Tax. The City does have a Use Tax on Motor Vehicles and Building Materials.

14. What other taxes does the City have?

Property taxes are levied by local governments on all privately owned real property regardless of use. The amount of the taxes levied are based on the assessed valuation of the property and the City’s mill levy. The tax is assessed by multiplying the assessed valuation by the mill levy rate. Assessed valuation is established by the Arapahoe County Assessor. To look up your property's assessed value, visit the County Assessor's Parcel Search.
The City’s Property Tax is collected by the Arapahoe County Assessor. Questions regarding Property Tax should be directed to the Administration Office of the Arapahoe County Assessor at (303) 795-4651, or information regarding property taxes can be found at the Arapahoe County Assessor's Office.

15. Where do I file my return and pay the sales tax in person?

To pay in person go, to the Civic Center at 13133 E. Arapahoe Road and ask for the Sales Tax Department. The staff at the reception area will refer them to the Contractor Licensing area for assistance. You can also file and remit through the Lockbox address – P.O. Box 17383, Denver, CO 80217-0383

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Stimulus Grants

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1. How will TABOR affect Centennial if the city receives money from ARRA

Federal Grants are exempt from TABOR. Centennial's registered voters have excempted all City funds from TABOR until 2013.

2. When can the City expect to receive money?

Different ARRA grants are distributed at different times. CDBG funds could start coming in as early as May, 2009. EECBG funds aren’t expected to be awarded until November, 2009. Centennial will list all the ARRA grants it’s pursuing on this website. The City will also list when it expects to receive a grant. So, please check the site regularly.

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Zoning

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1. What is zoning?

Zoning is a tool that municipalities utilize to regulate aspects of development for a particular location, such as permitted uses, setback requirements, height restrictions, density, etc.

Zoning specifies geographical areas in which residential, industrial, agricultural and commercial activities may be conducted. For example, an R-3 residential zone district would permit only single-family residences, rather than condominiums or duplexes. A Planned Unit Development (PUD) is another type of zoning district, which can be more flexible than a conventional zoning district when it comes to regulations and criteria.

2. Does the City enforce homeowner covenants or deed restrictions?

No. Unlike zoning regulations, the City does not enforce homeowner covenants or deed restrictions. Homeowner covenants and deed restrictions are private agreements, which can only be acted upon by those who have agreed to encumber their properties according to those rules, forms and conditions.

3. How can I find out what the zoning is on my property?

Call the City of Centennial Zoning line at (303) 754-3308 and a City Planner will assist you. You may also visit the Planning and Development Department to get this information. City Office hours are Monday-Friday, 8:00a.m.-5:00p.m. Visit Planning & Development

4. How can I find out what the setback requirements are for a property?

To get setback information on how far your structure is from the property line, call the City of Centennial Zoning line at (303) 754-3308.

5. What is a non-conforming use/structure?

A non-conforming use/structure is any use/structure that was in compliance with zoning requirements when it was built, but is no longer in compliance with one or more of the regulations of the applicable zoning district. The degree of non-conformance cannot be increased, according to the City’s Land Development Code (See Chapter 1, Part 500 of the Land Development Code for regulations governing non-conforming uses, structures and land.) Land Development Code

6. How can I find out if my property is within the City limits?

To find whether a particular property is located within the City limits view the official City map or call the City of Centennial Zoning line at (303) 754-3308. Centennial District Map

7. Where can I find the dimensions of my lot, property line locations and other information related to measurements on my property?

This information may be found by viewing your subdivision plat. If you do not know the legal description of your property, you may find it on Arapahoe County’s Web site under Parcel Search.

To obtain a copy of your specific plat, contact the Arapahoe County Clerk and Recorder’s Office at (303) 795-4200.

Most property owners should have an Improvement Location Certificate (ILC) for their property. The ILC is a document due at closing for most home sale transactions. An ILC is a mini-plat of the particular lot or parcel and would serve as the easiest visual depiction of the property's dimension. It does not constitute a legal document for property owners but shows the title insurance company that the property is free of encroachments.

The limitations of official plats are that they don't show the house or other improvements on the lot. This is where the ILC is valuable because it typically shows easements AND structures, not just easements and property lines. The recording of these instruments would likely be handled by the title company if the owner does not have a copy. Arapahoe County does not keep record of the ILCs.

If additional information is still needed after reviewing the subdivision plat and an ILC of your lot, a land survey should be performed and a land survey plat created and recorded with the County.
A property owner must hire a licensed surveyor to perform a survey. View the Parcel Search

8. Where can I obtain a zoning map?

You can download an unofficial zoning map through the City's GIS Map Gallery, along with many other City maps. For official zoning, please call the City of Centennial zoning line at (303) 754-3308. GIS Map Gallery