Douglas County Board approves new traffic regulations targeting commercial and recreational vehicle parking

In a significant move to enhance community safety, the Douglas County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a public contract for aviation wildland fire support during their business meeting on April 8, 2025. This decision underscores the county's commitment to addressing fire risks, particularly in light of increasing wildland fire incidents in the region.

The board's focus on public safety continued with the first reading of Ordinance Number O-0025-001, which aims to regulate traffic and parking in residential areas. This ordinance responds to safety concerns raised by residents regarding the parking of commercial vehicles and recreational vehicles in densely populated neighborhoods, particularly in areas like Highlands Ranch.

Commander Allen Stanton of the Douglas County Sheriff's Office presented the ordinance, highlighting the need for updated regulations following a 2022 legislative change that removed homeowners' associations' authority to regulate parking. The new ordinance proposes specific provisions for commercial vehicles, including a tiered penalty system for violations. For example, a first offense would incur a $100 fine, escalating to mandatory court appearances for repeated violations.

The ordinance also addresses recreational vehicles, allowing temporary parking for up to 72 hours while imposing fines for longer durations. This approach aims to balance residents' rights to park their vehicles with the need to maintain safety and aesthetics in the community.

Commissioners expressed their appreciation for the sheriff's office's proactive measures in addressing these issues, noting the importance of community input in shaping the regulations. The discussions reflected a broader commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of Douglas County residents.

As the board moves forward with these initiatives, they aim to foster a safer environment while respecting the needs and concerns of the community. The next steps will involve further discussions and potential adjustments to the proposed regulations based on public feedback.