Welcome to A Better Edge, your trusted provider of landscape edging services across Denver County. Whether you’re a homeowner in Littleton looking for a polished garden path, a business owner in Aurora enhancing curb appeal, or a property manager in Commerce City aiming to maintain clean, durable borders, we have a solution tailored to your needs.
Denver County has implemented specific laws and regulations to ensure that landscaping and edging practices prioritize safety, sustainability, and aesthetic value. These regulations, which apply to residential and commercial properties, are enforced by the City and County of Denver’s Community Planning and Development Department and governed by state statutes under Title 12, Article 130: Landscape Architects.
Cities We Serve in Denver County
Arvada
Arvada offers a mix of historic charm and modern living, with neighborhoods emphasizing large outdoor spaces and lush parks. Many residents in Arvada prefer natural stone edging to blend with the city’s scenic environment, especially near Majestic View Nature Center and Ralston Creek Trail.
Popular applications:
- Stone-lined pathways in gardens
- Decorative tree rings in park settings
Aurora
As one of the largest cities in Colorado, Aurora is known for its diverse neighborhoods and expansive green spaces, such as Cherry Creek State Park. Property owners often choose concrete curbing for high-traffic areas such as sidewalks, playgrounds, and driveways to ensure durability and long-term performance.
Key benefits:
- Resistance to freeze-thaw cycles
- Custom colors and textures to match property aesthetics
Broomfield
Broomfield balances suburban tranquility with growing urban amenities. Families in neighborhoods near Flatiron Crossing often opt for rubber landscape edging, ideal for creating safe, child-friendly play areas.
Best uses:
- Playground borders and garden beds
- Flexible layouts for curved paths
Commerce City
With its emphasis on industrial growth and public parks like Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, Commerce City benefits from steel edging to maintain clean, durable boundaries in both residential and commercial properties.
Advantages:
- Long-lasting performance under heavy use
- Excellent for commercial landscaping projects
Denver
Denver is the region’s heart, combining historic neighborhoods with vibrant business districts. In areas like Washington Park and LoDo, homeowners and businesses alike prefer aluminum edging to create sleek, low-maintenance landscapes that reflect modern design trends.
Common features:
- Edging for rooftop gardens and urban courtyards
- Defined paths and patios for high-end properties
Littleton
Picturesque neighborhoods and outdoor spaces like Hudson Gardens highlight Littleton’s historic charm. Natural wood and stone edging are popular for creating rustic, inviting landscapes that fit the city’s aesthetic.
Top choices:
- Rustic garden borders for residential areas
- Walkways lined with natural stone in public parks
Thornton
In Thornton, where rapid growth has brought new residential developments, metal and concrete edging are often installed to define driveways, garden beds, and outdoor entertainment areas.
Features:
- High resistance to wear and tear from weather and traffic
- A clean, structured appearance for modern homes
Westminster
With stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and a focus on green living, Westminster emphasizes sustainable landscaping. Recycled rubber edging is widespread, particularly near recreation hubs like Standley Lake Regional Park.
Sustainability benefits:
- Made from 100% recycled materials
- Helps reduce environmental impact without sacrificing durability
Our Landscape Edging Services
We provide a wide range of landscape edging options to meet the diverse needs of Denver County residents:
Material Options
| Material | Benefits | Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Concrete | Extremely durable, customizable | Driveways, sidewalks |
| Aluminum | Lightweight, rust-resistant | Walkways, patios |
| Rubber | Eco-friendly, flexible, and safe | Playgrounds, gardens |
| Natural stone | Timeless, blends with nature | Parks, rustic residential areas |
Why Choose A Better Edge?
At A Better Edge, we understand the importance of creating outdoor spaces that are both functional and visually appealing. Our team brings years of experience in Denver County landscaping, offering:
- Expert consultation – We assess your property to recommend the most suitable materials and designs.
- Customized solutions – We tailor each project to your vision, whether you prefer minimalist aluminum edges or rustic stone borders.
- Durable installations – Our professional installation process ensures long-lasting performance, even in Colorado’s challenging climate.
Affordable and Sustainable Edging Solutions
We strive to provide affordable options that don’t compromise on quality. Our eco-friendly products, like recycled rubber edging, are perfect for families and environmentally conscious homeowners. Additionally, long-lasting materials such as aluminum and concrete reduce the need for frequent replacements, saving you money over time.
Enhancing Colorado Communities
A Better Edge is dedicated to improving landscapes across Colorado, from Thornton’s suburban developments to Aurora’s commercial hubser County.
Our services help:
- Homeowners boost curb appeal with clean, defined garden beds and paths
- Businesses create welcoming, well-maintained outdoor spaces that reflect professionalism
- Public parks enhance safety and functionality with durable, weather-resistant borders
Licensing and Compliance Requirements
Licensing for Landscape Architects
Under Colorado Revised Statutes Title 12, landscape architects must hold a valid state license to design and implement large-scale or public infrastructure landscaping projects. This requirement safeguards public health and safety by ensuring only qualified professionals oversee critical landscape installations.
- Licensed professionals must adhere to the Landscape Architects Professional Licensing Act.
- Non-compliance can result in disciplinary actions, including fines and license suspension.
Certification for Edging Installations
While small residential projects may not require a licensed architect, contractors installing concrete curbing, rubber edging, or metal edging must follow local building codes and obtain permits for significant installations.
Land Use and Zoning Restrictions
Property Line and Setback Requirements
Denver’s zoning code dictates setback rules, which affect where landscape edging can be placed near property lines. These requirements help prevent boundary disputes and maintain proper drainage between neighboring properties.
Common Setback Rules:
- Edging installations must be at least 3 feet away from property boundaries unless explicitly permitted by both neighbors.
- In areas prone to flooding, such as near Cherry Creek, permeable edging materials may be required to enhance water absorption and reduce runoff.
Environmental Protection Regulations
Water Management and Drainage
Given Denver’s semi-arid climate, water conservation is a critical concern. Laws require that landscape edging projects incorporate proper drainage solutions to prevent soil erosion and water pooling.
Key regulations:
- Permeable Edging: Properties near parks like City Park or Washington Park may need stone or gravel edging to promote natural water infiltration.
- Irrigation Compliance: Edging cannot obstruct irrigation systems required by the city’s drought management plan.
Quote from Chad Livingston:
“In Denver, choosing the right edging isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about managing water responsibly and protecting your landscape investment for the long term.”
Aesthetic and Safety Standards
Neighborhood-Specific Design Guidelines
Certain areas of Denver, such as LoDo and Cherry Creek, have design review boards that oversee landscaping improvements. These guidelines aim to preserve the visual harmony of historic and upscale neighborhoods.
Examples:
- LoDo Design Board: This board requires modern or industrial materials like steel edging for properties near urban developments.
- Cherry Creek Zoning Overlay: Natural stone edging for residential homes is recommended to maintain a cohesive appearance.
Safety Regulations
The city enforces height and material standards for curbing along sidewalks and driveways to minimize trip hazards and vehicle damage. For instance:
- Concrete curbing must be 4-6 inches high in commercial areas.
- Edging near playgrounds must use rubber materials to protect children from injuries.
Permits and Inspection Process
Permit Application Steps
- Submit a Design Plan: Include details on edging materials, dimensions, and location.
- Pay Application Fees: Costs vary based on the size and scope of the project.
- Site Inspection: The city conducts inspections to verify compliance with building codes and environmental regulations.
Lists of Required Compliance and Violations
Required Steps for Compliance
- Obtain all necessary permits before installation.
- Use approved materials and adhere to setback rules.
- Ensure proper drainage to prevent flooding.
Common Violations and Fines
- Unpermitted installations
- Edging placed too close to property lines
- Blocking drainage pathways
Violations can result in fines of up to $1,000 per infraction and the mandatory removal or redesign of non-compliant features.
Table of Material Regulations
| Material | Permitted Areas | Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| Concrete curbing | Driveways, commercial zones | Height restrictions near sidewalks |
| Rubber edging | Playgrounds, residential gardens | Must be free of hazardous chemicals |
| Natural stone or A Better Edge | Historic districts, parks | May require Denver’sproval |
Benefits of Adhering to Denver’s Landscaping Laws
- Enhanced Property Value Perception: Compliance with property standards can increase a property’s perceived resale value.
- Reduced Liability: Following safety regulations minimizes the risk of accidents and potential lawsuits.
- Environmental Sustainability: Proper Denver’s and material use contributes to Denver’s long-term water management goals.
Contact Us Today
Transform your outdoor space with professional landscape edging services from A Better Edge. We proudly serve Denver County, including Arvada, Littleton, Westminster, and more. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation!
