Colorado Relocation Assistance for Mobile Home Park Closures

If your mobile home park in Colorado is closing, you may feel overwhelmed, anxious, or unsure about where to start. Colorado has clear laws about relocation assistance for residents in these situations. Understanding your rights and the step-by-step process can help you secure the help and compensation you need for a smoother transition.

Understanding Park Closures and Relocation Rights in Colorado

When a landlord or park owner decides to close or redevelop a mobile home park, state law provides protection and assistance to help residents relocate their homes or find new housing. The main law covering these situations is the Mobile Home Park Act, as updated by recent legislation.^[1]

What Triggers Relocation Assistance?

Relocation assistance is generally triggered when:

• The park owner gives written notice of intent to close or change land use.
• This change will require removal or demolition of existing manufactured homes.

By law, at least 12 months' notice must be given to each homeowner renting a lot.^[2]

What Kind of Assistance is Available?

Eligible residents may qualify for:

• Direct relocation assistance payments, usually to help with moving or installation costs.
• Access to housing support services.
• Eligibility for grants from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) Mobile Home Park Relocation Program.

How the Relocation Program Works

Assistance is coordinated through DOLA, under oversight from the Mobile Home Park Oversight Program. This program manages eligibility, handles applications, and distributes funds when a park closure is announced.

Key Steps and Timelines

• Written closure notice sent to residents and DOLA (at least 12 months in advance).
• Residents receive information about how to apply for relocation assistance.
• Eligible residents complete required forms and submit them to DOLA by deadlines listed in their notice.
• Payments or direct assistance are coordinated if eligibility is met.

It’s important to keep all communications and responses well-documented during this process.

Official Forms for Relocation Assistance

• Mobile Home Park Closure Notice (No form number):
  Purpose: This formal written notice is provided by the park owner to all residents and to DOLA when a closure or land use change is planned.
  How It’s Used: A park owner submits this notice to start the relocation process. Residents should keep their copy and use it when applying for assistance.
  See official closure notice info
• Relocation Assistance Application (DOLA Mobile Home Park Relocation Program Form):
  Purpose: To apply for financial help with moving, demolition, or buying a replacement home.
  How It’s Used: Residents submit the completed application, along with proof of residency and moving expenses, to DOLA for review.
  Access the official relocation application here

Tip: Submit your application for relocation assistance as soon as possible after you receive a closure notice. Early action can help secure funding before deadlines or available funds run out.

Who Handles Disputes or Complaints?

In Colorado, the Mobile Home Park Oversight Program oversees park closures and resident protections. While there is no specific "tribunal," complaints about failures to provide proper notice or relocation funds can be filed with DOLA. If disputes can't be resolved, residents may also pursue civil action in state court.

The main governing legislation is the Colorado Mobile Home Park Act.

What Should You Do Next?

If you have received a closure notice, follow these steps to protect yourself:

• Read your notice fully and note all deadlines.
• Gather any required documentation for assistance.
• Fill out and submit your Relocation Assistance Application to DOLA.
• Follow up with DOLA or a legal service if you have any issues or questions.

Taking prompt action will help maximize your chance of getting the help you need.

FAQ

1. How much relocation assistance can I get in Colorado?
   The amount varies, but eligible homeowners may receive funds to offset reasonable moving, demolition, or new home costs, according to the guidelines set by DOLA's Mobile Home Park Relocation Program.
2. What if I can’t move my home?
   If your home cannot be moved (because of age, size, or cost), you may still qualify for assistance to help with demolition and finding replacement housing.
3. Do I have to own my home to apply for relocation funds?
   Yes, the main program is for those who own and occupy their manufactured home in the park at the time of closure notice.
4. What if the park owner did not give proper notice?
   Contact DOLA’s Mobile Home Park Oversight Program immediately. Failure to give required notice is a violation of state law and may affect the closure process.
5. Where can I get help filling out relocation forms?
   DOLA offers direct assistance. You can also contact statewide legal aid services or renters’ advocacy groups listed below.

Conclusion: What Colorado Manufactured Home Tenants Should Remember

• Park closures come with strong renter rights and the potential for financial assistance.
• Relocation application forms must be submitted to DOLA by the stated deadlines.
• Reach out for help right away if you encounter notice issues or need support with forms.

With the right information and support, you can protect your interests and secure assistance.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Colorado Mobile Home Park Oversight Program (DOLA): Information, oversight, complaint forms, and relocation assistance
• Park Closure Notice Requirements: Official guidance and statutory references
• Colorado Legal Services: Free or low-cost legal help for renters
• General Colorado Housing Contact: State housing questions or to file a complaint

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1. Colorado Mobile Home Park Act (HB21-1309 and related updates)
2. Notice requirements for park closures – State of Colorado DOLA

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