Colorado Dog Poop Laws by County
Dog poop laws in Colorado are designed to keep neighborhoods, parks, and public spaces clean and safe. While the state doesn’t have a single law for all areas, nearly every county or city has its own rules about picking up dog waste. This guide breaks it down county by county so you can avoid fines—and be a good neighbor.
Is It Illegal to Leave Dog Poop in Colorado?
Yes, in almost every city and county across Colorado, leaving your dog’s poop on public or private property is considered a violation of local ordinances. Most places require owners to immediately remove waste and dispose of it properly. Not doing so can result in fines or nuisance complaints.
Denver County (City and County of Denver)
Denver has strict pet waste rules under its municipal code. Dog owners must pick up waste immediately on public or private property they do not own. Fines start at $100 and increase with repeat offenses. Dog parks like Berkeley and Stapleton are regularly patrolled, and waste stations are common.
El Paso County (Colorado Springs)
In Colorado Springs, city ordinances require that dog poop be cleaned up in all public areas. Section 6.7.104 of the City Code outlines that waste must be picked up right away. Failure to comply can result in fines or reports to animal control. HOAs also enforce these rules within their communities.
Boulder County (Boulder, Longmont, Lafayette)
Boulder has one of the most progressive pet waste policies. All pet owners must clean up after their pets immediately. The city encourages using biodegradable bags and offers free waste bag stations in most parks. Fines range from $50 to $300 depending on the number of violations.
Arapahoe County (Aurora, Centennial)
In Aurora, local ordinances require pet owners to clean up waste on any property not owned or occupied by the dog owner. Centennial enforces similar laws and includes pet waste under their public nuisance codes. Violators may face citations or HOA fines in residential areas.
Jefferson County (Lakewood, Arvada, Golden)
Jefferson County cities like Lakewood and Golden enforce dog poop cleanup under municipal public health and safety codes. Fines range from $50 to $200. Most trails and parks have waste bag dispensers, but owners are still expected to bring their own as a backup.
Larimer County (Fort Collins, Loveland)
Fort Collins City Code 4-94 makes it unlawful to leave pet waste behind in public or on private property not owned by the dog’s handler. Animal control can issue fines or citations, and repeat offenders may be summoned to court. Loveland also supports dog waste rules through city signage and enforcement.
Douglas County (Castle Rock, Parker)
In Douglas County, dog poop laws are enforced primarily through city codes in Castle Rock and Parker. Both cities require immediate removal of feces and have designated disposal bins in dog-friendly areas. HOAs may impose additional rules and fees for violations.
Adams County (Thornton, Brighton, Commerce City)
Thornton and Brighton have municipal codes that require dog owners to remove waste immediately. Dog parks and trails are monitored by community officers who can issue warnings or fines. Commerce City includes these laws under its sanitation and nuisance codes.
Weld County (Greeley)
Greeley requires pet owners to clean up waste in all public spaces and any private property not owned by the dog’s handler. City code considers uncollected dog poop a nuisance. Offenders may face fines or be reported by neighbors through city complaint systems.
Smaller and Rural Counties
In smaller or rural Colorado counties, specific dog poop laws may not be detailed in the county code. However, general public nuisance, sanitation, or environmental protection rules still apply. If your dog’s waste affects water sources, walkways, or neighbors, you could face enforcement from county officials.
Penalties for Not Cleaning Up Dog Waste in Colorado
Here’s what you could face if you ignore dog poop laws in Colorado:
- Fines from $50 to $500 depending on location and number of offenses
- Warnings for first-time offenders
- Possible court summons or mandatory clean-up duties for repeat violations
Most cities offer leniency for first offenses but are quick to fine repeat violators, especially in high-traffic parks or shared spaces.
Dog Parks and Public Spaces
Almost all public dog parks in Colorado—like Cherry Creek State Park or Bear Creek Dog Park—have clear rules about dog waste. Signs are posted, waste bags are available, and park rangers monitor for violations. Leaving poop behind can get you fined or even banned from the park.
What About Private Communities and HOAs?
Homeowner Associations in Colorado often have stricter rules than cities or counties. These rules may include:
- Immediate cleanup of pet waste on sidewalks and green belts
- Fines added to monthly dues
- Loss of privileges to use shared spaces or community dog parks
HOAs may also monitor dog waste with cameras or neighborhood patrols in high-end communities.
Wondering How Old Your Dog Is in Human Years?
If you’re out walking your dog and wondering about their age, check out this dog age calculator. It gives you a human-age estimate based on breed and size.
You can also use this interactive tool to help you better understand your dog’s stage of life.
Try it now and find your dog’s age in human years. It’s fast and easy.
Summary of Colorado Dog Poop Laws by County
| County | Main Cities | Poop Law? | Fines |
|---|---|---|---|
| Denver | Denver | Yes | $100–$300 |
| El Paso | Colorado Springs | Yes | Up to $250 |
| Boulder | Boulder, Longmont | Yes | $50–$300 |
| Arapahoe | Aurora, Centennial | Yes | $75–$200 |
| Jefferson | Lakewood, Golden | Yes | $50–$200 |
| Larimer | Fort Collins, Loveland | Yes | $100+ citations |
| Douglas | Castle Rock, Parker | Yes | City + HOA fines |
| Adams | Thornton, Brighton | Yes | $50–$150 |
| Weld | Greeley | Yes | Local fines |
| Rural Counties | — | General sanitation codes | Local enforcement |
Conclusion
Dog poop laws in Colorado are taken seriously, especially in cities, parks, and neighborhoods. Whether you’re in downtown Denver or a quiet trail in Boulder, you’re expected to clean up after your dog. Failing to do so can lead to fines, complaints, or worse—damaging the environment around you.
And while you’re out being a responsible pet owner, don’t forget to check your dog’s age in human years. It’s a fun and helpful way to understand their behavior and health needs better.