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DO-5DO
DO‑5 (South Sloan’s Lake Design Overlay)
Purpose
DO‑5 guides development around the southern edge of Sloan’s Lake, a prominent open space in west Denver. The overlay seeks to protect lake views, enhance public access, and ensure that new buildings complement the park’s natural beauty and scale.
Height & Scale
Story RangeHeight limits from the base zoning apply, but additional restrictions may be imposed to preserve sight lines to the lake and the mountains beyond. Step‑backs or height limits near the lake edge ensure that buildings do not dominate the skyline.
Building Placement
Build-to (Primary)Buildings must orient toward the lake and connect to the park’s trail system. Setbacks along the lake edge are increased to provide a public promenade and green buffer. Parking is located behind buildings or underground to minimize its visibility.
Design Standards
Transparency (Primary)Architectural design should respond to the park setting, using materials and colors that blend with the natural environment. Ground‑floor uses along key streets and the lake promenade should be active, such as cafés, shops or community spaces. Landscaped transitions soften the interface between private development and public parkland.
Permitted Uses
Uses include residential, retail, restaurant and cultural facilities compatible with the park setting. Outdoor seating and activity areas are encouraged.
Typical Application
Properties fronting or near Sloan’s Lake where the city seeks to create a vibrant lakefront district that supports recreation and neighborhood life while preserving scenic qualities.
Quick Reference
CodeDO-5
FamilyDO
StoriesHeight limits from the base zoning apply, but additional restrictions may be imposed to preserve sight lines to the lake and the mountains beyond. Step‑backs or height limits near the lake edge ensure that buildings do not dominate the skyline.
TransparencyArchitectural design should respond to the park setting, using materials and colors that blend with the natural environment. Ground‑floor uses along key streets and the lake promenade should be active, such as cafés, shops or community spaces. Landscaped transitions soften the interface between private development and public parkland.
Properties Zoned DO-5(0)
No published properties currently zoned DO-5.
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