Colorado News: Aspen Passes Construction and Demolition (C&D) Recycling ordinance
The City of Aspen joins a growing number of Colorado cities working to curb greenhouse gas emissions by recycling and reusing building materials
Exciting news for sustainable construction in Colorado: The City of Aspen has officially passed a C&D Diversion Ordinance requiring demolition projects to recycle and reuse building materials! This landmark vote, which took place in January 2025, goes into effect on February 13, 2025.
Aspen now joins other progressive Colorado communities—such as Boulder, Denver, Fort Collins, and Lakewood—in adopting deconstruction policies that reduce demolition waste and curb greenhouse gas emissions. As advocates for sustainable building practices, we’re thrilled to see this momentum growing across the state.
Aspen’s New Deconstruction Policy: Key Requirements for Builders
Under the new ordinance, any demolition project with a footprint of 2,000 square feet or more must divert at least 50% of building material debris from landfills. Additionally, all readily recyclable materials—including concrete, clean wood, untreated lumber, and metal—must be fully recycled.
To ensure compliance, builders must submit a detailed building material recovery plan when applying for a demolition permit. The City will also require a deposit based on the projected tonnage of materials slated for reuse and recycling, which will be refunded upon meeting the ordinance’s requirements.
Get all the details on the City of Aspen’s website.
Environmental Impact: Reducing Landfill Waste and Greenhouse Gas Emissions
A major driving force behind this ordinance is reducing landfill waste. Aspen’s landfill—the Pitkin County Landfill/Solid Waste Center—currently consists of over 50% construction and demolition debris. Diverting reusable and recyclable materials from landfills not only conserve limited space but also prevents the release of methane, a potent greenhouse gas produced when biodegradable construction waste decomposes.
By implementing this ordinance, Aspen is taking a crucial step toward meeting its ambitious climate goals, including reducing carbon emissions by 63% by 2030 and achieving full carbon neutrality by 2050.
How Builders and Contractors Can Meet Aspen’s C&D Recycling Requirements
For businesses needing guidance on compliance, the City of Aspen is offering workforce training programs focused on efficient demolition practices and building material sorting. These resources aim to streamline the transition to deconstruction methods while supporting local contractors and builders in adapting to the new requirements.
Supporting Deconstruction in Colorado: How We Can Help
At Perks Deconstruction, we specialize in consulting and workforce training for sustainable demolition practices. We work with builders and contractors throughout Colorado—including in Boulder, Denver, and Aspen—to implement deconstruction strategies that maximize material reuse and minimize waste. Learn more about our services and let us know how we can assist with your next project.
This ordinance represents a significant step forward for sustainable building practices in Colorado. As more cities embrace deconstruction, we move closer to a future where reclaimed materials and environmentally responsible demolition become the norm rather than the exception.
