Colorado’s Rent Control History: Campaigns and Tenant Rights

Renters in Colorado often wonder: what protections exist against sudden rent increases? While Colorado does not currently have statewide rent control, understanding the historic campaigns for rent regulation in the state is essential. This article guides Colorado renters through the state's rent control history, current legal landscape, and resources to help renters facing rental challenges.

Historic Campaigns for Rent Control in Colorado

Colorado has seen multiple grassroots and legislative efforts aimed at instituting rent control—laws that would limit how much landlords can raise rents. Although these efforts have sparked critical debate in state and local governments, Colorado rent control remains prohibited at the state level due to an existing statute.

Key Legislative Timeline

• 1981 Rent Control Law: Colorado adopted Colorado Revised Statutes § 38-12-301, which prohibits local governments from enacting rent regulation on private residential property¹.
• Recent Legislative Efforts: In 2019 and 2023, lawmakers introduced bills to repeal the statewide ban on local rent control (notably HB23-1115), aiming to give cities and counties the authority to pass rent control ordinances. These efforts did not become law, but public interest continues to grow².
• Local Initiatives: Some cities, such as Denver and Boulder, have explored affordable housing policies, but are restricted by state law from enacting traditional rent control.

These campaigns highlight the ongoing public conversation about affordability and tenant protections in Colorado.

Current Legal Protections for Renters Facing Rent Increases

While rent control is not permitted, Colorado renters still have important rights under state law. Landlords must follow certain requirements when increasing rent or making changes to a lease agreement.

• Landlords must give proper written notice for any rent increase—at least 21 days for month-to-month tenancies under C.R.S. § 38-12-104³.
• Rental increases cannot take effect during a fixed-term lease unless allowed by the signed agreement.
• Eviction protections apply regardless of rent increases, and proper procedures must be followed if you face eviction.

Which Board Handles Rent Disputes?

In Colorado, rent and tenancy disputes are generally addressed in local County Courts. There is no specialized state rent control or tenant tribunal, but the Colorado Department of Local Affairs, Division of Housing offers information and support for renters.

Relevant Official Forms for Colorado Renters

• Notice to Quit (Form JDF 97): Used by landlords to end a periodic tenancy or by renters to give notice of moving out. Example: If you have a month-to-month lease and your landlord plans to increase the rent, they should provide a written Notice to Quit at least 21 days before the change. View and download Form JDF 97.
• Answer Under Simplified Civil Procedure (Form JDF 98): Used if you are responding to an eviction (for example, after a rent increase you dispute). Download Form JDF 98 here.

Always use official forms from the Colorado Judicial Branch’s Housing Forms section to ensure accuracy.

How Colorado Law Affects Renters Today

Currently, the statewide ban on rent control means landlords can set rent at market rates, provided they comply with notice and fair housing requirements. However, ongoing discussions show that many advocates continue to push for local options and increased tenant protections.

FAQ: Colorado Rent Control and Tenant Protection

1. Does Colorado have rent control?
   No, Colorado state law prohibits local governments from enacting rent control on private residential properties.
2. How much notice do landlords need to give before increasing rent?
   Landlords must provide at least 21 days' written notice before increasing rent for month-to-month tenancies.
3. Can a landlord raise rent during a lease?
   Generally, landlords cannot raise the rent during a fixed-term lease unless the lease agreement allows it.
4. Who do I contact for rental disputes in Colorado?
   Most tenancy disputes are handled in county courts. The Colorado Department of Local Affairs can also help provide information and referrals.
5. What form do I use to respond to an eviction?
   Respond to an eviction by filing the "Answer Under Simplified Civil Procedure" (Form JDF 98) with the appropriate County Court.

Key Takeaways for Colorado Renters

• Local rent control campaigns have not yet succeeded due to the statewide ban.
• Rent increases require proper written notice in Colorado.
• Renters have resources and forms available to protect their rights and respond to disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Colorado Department of Local Affairs – Rental Assistance Programs
• Colorado Division of Housing – Tenant and Landlord Information
• Colorado Judicial Branch – Housing Forms and Resources
• If you need legal help, contact Colorado Legal Services for free or low-cost support.

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¹ See Colorado Revised Statutes § 38-12-301: Prohibition of Rent Control (official text, page 172).
² For historic and recent legislation, visit HB23-1115: Local Control of Rents.
³ For notice requirements, see C.R.S. § 38-12-104: Lease Termination and Notice (page 152).

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