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I-2Industrial

I‑2 – Heavy Industrial District

Purpose

I‑2 areas are intended to accommodate heavy industrial activities, including large‑scale manufacturing, processing, assembly, and resource extraction. These uses often involve high levels of noise, vibration, odors, or truck traffic. Bulk plane, setback and landscape standards apply, and building area may not exceed two times the site area. Certain high‑impact uses may require conditional use approval.

Height & Scale

Building Placement

Build-to (Primary)Setback requirements and bulk plane standards provide separation between industrial operations and public rights‑of‑way. Large parcels accommodate heavy equipment, open storage and truck circulation. Loading docks, rail spurs and outdoor processing areas are typically located away from the street. Screening and fencing are required to protect adjacent uses.

Design Standards

Transparency (Primary)Design emphasis is on functionality and mitigation of off‑site impacts. Industrial processes must be contained within enclosed structures where feasible. Outdoor storage and equipment should be screened from public view. Landscaping along street frontages and buffer yards softens the industrial character and provides environmental benefits.

Permitted Uses

Allowed uses encompass heavy manufacturing (e.g., metal fabrication, cement and asphalt plants), chemical processing, mineral extraction and heavy equipment storage. Waste management and recycling facilities may also be permitted. Conditional uses include major hazardous material handling and waste treatment facilities, which require special review.

Typical Application

I‑2 zoning is applied in areas with existing heavy industrial operations, typically near major rail corridors, highways or waterways. Examples include large manufacturing plants, recycling yards and energy‑generation facilities. These areas are often separated from residential neighborhoods by buffers or other industrial zones.

Quick Reference

CodeI-2

FamilyIndustrial

TransparencyDesign emphasis is on functionality and mitigation of off‑site impacts. Industrial processes must be contained within enclosed structures where feasible. Outdoor storage and equipment should be screened from public view. Landscaping along street frontages and buffer yards softens the industrial character and provides environmental benefits.

Denver Zoning Code

Properties Zoned I-2(0)

No published properties currently zoned I-2.

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