City of Denver

Denver's Universal Recycling & Composting Ordinance

Denver's URCO requires businesses and multi-family properties to provide recycling and composting services. Here's what you need to know and how TrashPlanda can help you comply.

What is the URCO?

The Universal Recycling and Composting Ordinance (URCO) is Denver's landmark regulation requiring commercial properties and multi-family residential buildings to provide recycling and composting services to their occupants. The ordinance is being phased in over several years based on property size.

The goal is to significantly increase Denver's waste diversion rate and reduce the amount of recyclable and compostable material going to landfills. Non-compliance can result in fines and enforcement actions from the City.

Compliance is Required

Businesses that fail to comply may face fines starting at $150 per violation, increasing for repeat offenses. The City conducts regular inspections and audits.

Implementation Timeline

July 2022

Large properties (8+ units or 50,000+ sq ft commercial)

January 2024

Medium properties (4-7 units or 10,000+ sq ft commercial)

January 2026

Smaller commercial properties and remaining multi-family

Current Phase

Key Requirements

Provide recycling services for tenants, employees, and customers

Provide composting services (phased rollout based on property size)

Ensure adequate container capacity and signage

Educate building occupants about proper sorting

Submit annual waste diversion reports to the City

Maintain records of hauler contracts and service levels

How TrashPlanda Helps You Comply

TrashPlanda automates URCO compliance tracking, generates required reports, monitors your waste diversion rates, and alerts you before issues arise — so you never have to worry about fines.

Talk to Us About URCO Compliance