Samples and Information
Trash and Debris
Any accumulation of garbage, trash, appliances, old furniture, or scrap material must be removed from the property.
Vehicles
Cars and trucks that are not licensed or are not in running condition must be parked in an enclosed garage. Large commercial vehicles and construction equipment may not be parked in residential areas without a valid permit. There are specific criteria that must be met before a permit can be issued. Contact the Code Compliance team directly for further information.
Parking in Yards
You may park your cars, campers, trucks, boats, or RVs in your driveway if they are in running condition and have valid license plates. They may not be parked on the lawn or on a dirt area.
RVs, Trailers and Motor Homes
RVs, trailers and motor homes may only be parked on the street when actively loading or unloading the vehicle. However, three-day permits are available at no charge twice each calendar year. Permits are available at the Building Inspection Counter located in the City Development Building, 9500 Civic Center Drive (facing Sam's Club). A copy of the registration for the recreational vehicle, motor home or trailer is required at the time of application.
Home Operated Businesses
Some businesses that do not generate customer traffic, noise, or require storage of material outside the home may be allowed to operate from a residence. The City code 18-167 defines home occupations and outlines the provisions of the code. Home occupations may require a City Sales and Use Tax Business License. Please contact the Sales Tax Division at 303-538-7400 for additional information.
To learn how to establish a home operated business contact the Economic Development Department at 303-538-7605 or business@cityofthornton.net
Fences
Fences along City streets must be maintained so that they do not lean or have more than one missing picket. Most back and side yard fences may not be more than six feet tall. Front yard fences may not be more than four feet tall. A fence exceeding 30 inches requires a permit. Properties that have swimming pools, spas, or hot tubs are subject to regulation on the type of fencing and must have self-closing and self-latching gates to prevent accidents.
Garage Sales
Four garage sales per year, each lasting no more than three consecutive calendar days, are allowed. One sign, a maximum of six square feet, is allowed at the location of the sale. There are provisions for sign placement in the public rights-of-way; follow this link for detailed information: Garage Sale Guide.
Weeds
Weeds cannot exceed eight inches in height anywhere on a residential lot.
Signs
Signs are allowed to be displayed along public streets (in the public rights-of-way) provided they meet specific criteria. Use the following link for more information: Code Applying to Signs.
Snow and Ice
Within 24 hours of the last accumulation, residents must remove the snow and/or ice from sidewalks adjacent to their property.
Street and Sidewalk Obstructions
Streets and sidewalks are designed to allow people, pets and vehicles to travel safely. Do not block the street or sidewalk with basketball goals, landscaping materials, overgrown bushes, or other items.
Graffiti
Graffiti must be removed within ten days of notification from the City. Homeowners, condo owners and Homeowners Associations (HOA) can request to have the City remove the graffiti for you. In order to participate in this program, the homeowner or HOA Board president must sign a City of Thornton consent and waiver form and submit it to Neighborhood Services. Forms are available on the Graffiti Removal page of this website.
Landscaping
Areas of a lot not occupied by other structures or driveways must be landscaped. The City offers a variety of resources and tips pertaining to landscaping.
Household Residents & Multiple Families Living in a Home
Families or unrelated individuals can live together in a single house. There should be no more than four individuals unrelated to the head of the household by blood, marriage, or adoption. This definition does not apply to a group home, bed and breakfast, motel, hotel, dormitory, boardinghouse, or rooming house.