Updates
Development moratorium officially removed
Council approves first reading of removal of moratorium
City Council presentation - March 11, 2019
Staff recommends early end to development moratorium
City Council presentation - March 4, 2019
Project update - February 2019
Project update - January 2019
Project update - December 2018
Project update - November 2018
Moratorium memorandum - review process guidelines
Planning Division - development review guide
View the City Council agenda memo
View the moratorium ordinance
City slowing development north of 92nd Avenue to address sewer capacity issues
Westminster: Open for business
fAQs
What is the Big Dry Creek Interceptor Sewer (BDCIS)?
The BDCIS is a 22-mile long system that carries wastewater for treatment to the Big Dry Creek Wastewater Treatment Facility. The BDCIS serves approximately two-thirds of the city.
Is the city’s sewer system safe?
Yes. The city’s sewer system is safe. Residents and businesses are well-served by the existing system.
Where is the affected area?
Please see the map above of the affected area. This moratorium does not apply to areas of the city not served by the BDCIS, including Downtown, Westminster Station, areas generally south of West 92nd Avenue, and areas generally north of West 120th Avenue and east of North Huron Street (i.e. The Orchard).
What does a moratorium mean?
The city will not accept new applications for development that increase sewer demand on the BDCIS.
Who is impacted by the moratorium?
Applicants who are proceeding through the city’s development entitlement process cannot be guaranteed building permit issuance if the capacity for the BDCIS is met.
When did the moratorium begin and how long will it last?
City Council action on Monday, July 23, enacted a moratorium, and the moratorium itself went into effect at noon on Tuesday, July 24. The current moratorium is for 12 months for areas served by the BDCIS to allow for the study of potential improvements to the BDCIS and to more accurately predict construction timelines.
Why is this moratorium necessary?
Sewer modeling shows that the BDCIS, in existing condition, is unable to serve all applicants who seek new development in the city.
How will the city evaluate development projects underway before the moratorium?
The city will evaluate building permit issuance for those who have applied for development projects prior to the issuance of the moratorium on a first-come, first-served basis.
Do I need to restrict my water use?
No. While the city always encourages wise resource use and conservation where possible, no water restrictions are necessary due to the moratorium. You can flush, irrigate, etc. as normal.
Can I add a bathroom to my home?
Yes. Bathroom additions in residential homes are allowed and are not subject to the moratorium.
Can I remodel my home?
Yes. The moratorium does not affect current use of your home in any way.
Can I remodel my existing business?
In general, remodeling projects that do not place additional demands on the BDCIS will move forward as usual. The city will work with applicants for projects that would place additional demands on the BDCIS on a first-come, first-served basis as capacity of the BDCIS allows. The city will work with existing businesses to find solutions to offset impacts to the BDCIS through conservation methods.
Additional Developer FAQS