File Photo by PHILIP B. POSTON/Sentinel Colorado
AURORA | Arapahoe County is proposing updates to use and development rules involving its open spaces, trails and parks and is inviting residents to share their feedback during a 30-day public comment period.
The proposed changes address the county’s significant growth in open space properties and the evolving public safety and natural resource protection needs.
The current rules, adopted in 1996, have not been updated in 28 years. During that time, Arapahoe County’s open spaces have expanded from just 60 acres to over 5,400 acres across 28 properties, making it necessary to revise regulations to keep up with increased usage and safety concerns, officials said.
After reviewing regulations from nearby local governments, Arapahoe County staff created a bevy of potential changes, open space officials said in a statement. Officials said the proposed changes would ensure better protection of the county’s natural resources, improve consistency with neighboring agencies and enhance public safety.
The new proposed rules in open space properties include:
- No releasing of animals
- Dogs must be leashed
- Pedal-assisted electric bikes are allowed
- The speed limit on trails is 15 mph
- No smoking, glass bottles or off-site waste dumping
- Restrictions on flotation devices and flying objects, unless otherwise posted
- No unpermitted commercial activities
“Like many public places, Arapahoe County’s parks, trails and open spaces are not immune to damage caused by vandalism, dumping and other activities that degrade the places we love,” Arapahoe County Director of Open Spaces, Gini Pingenot, said in a statement.
A public hearing with the board of Arapahoe County Commissioners is scheduled for Nov. 18 to consider adopting the new rules, which would take effect on Jan. 1, 2025.
Residents can review the proposed updates and submit comments online at arapahoeco.gov/openspacesrules or through email at askopenspaces@arapahoegov.com. The comment period runs from Oct. 21 to Nov. 18.