City of Boulder Ordinance Update: “Chronic Nuisance”
An ordinance change from the city of Boulder went into effect on Sept. 7, 2024, establishing a definition for “chronic nuisance” properties. This ordinance update could affect students living off campus if their property receives a certain number of citations within a year. Learn more about the chronic nuisance ordinance and what it means for students, and get tips to avoid citations.
What is the updated ordinance?
The from the city of Boulder defines the term “chronic nuisance.” This ordinance limits the number of citations/violations a property can receive before that property is deemed a chronic nuisance, and there may be consequences.
The limit of citations can vary based on how many units are within a property.
- Property with one unit (“single-family home”): Five citations limit
- Property with two to nine units: Seven citations limit
- Property with 10-99 units: 15 citations limit
Take note that the citation limits are per property and not per unit. Citation tickets that count toward this limit can include (but are not limited to):
- Excessive noise
- Nuisance parties
- Trash on your property
- Failure to remove snow within 24 hours of snowfall
- Weeds in your yard that are over a foot tall
What does this mean for students?
If your property is deemed a “chronic nuisance,” you could be asked to follow a Compliance Agreement approved by the city. Failure to comply could lead to court proceedings and possibly eviction from the property.
Because the citation limit is set per property and not per unit, students could be affected by their neighbors who continuously receive violations. Code enforcement citations are public records—you can review them by Be aware that this will not give a complete picture of all the violations households have received.
How can you avoid a chronic nuisance designation?
The best way to avoid having your property deemed a “chronic nuisance” is to be aware of and follow city ordinances.
Make a free appointment with our legal advisor to ensure you understand your lease and responsibilities as a tenant. Our legal advisor can help you determine what exterior maintenance is done by your landlord (e.g., snow removal and lawn maintenance) and which tasks you may be responsible for handling based on what’s in your lease.
Here are a few other tips to help you avoid citations:
- Never leave trash in your yard, and use your trash receptacles appropriately (especially if you must use a bear-resistant trash container).
- Keep your noise levels within prescribed limits for residential areas.
- Register your parties with our office. If a neighbor makes a noise complaint about your address, Boulder Police dispatch will notify you and issue a warning. This warning gives you 20 minutes to shut down the party before police are dispatched to your house or apartment and can help you avoid a noise or nuisance ticket.
How can you be a good neighbor?
In Boulder neighborhoods, students will always have non-student neighbors who live within a few blocks of their property. If you haven’t already done so, introduce yourself to your neighbors. Get to know them and share your contact information to communicate needs before conflict arises.