The City and County of Denver is committed to promoting the development of affordable housing for the City's essential workforce. In 2002, Denver City Council passed the Inclusionary Housing Ordinance, which requires developers building 30 or more for-sale units to provide at least 10% of the homes to households earning 80% of the Denver Area Median Income (AMI), depending on family size).

Prior to August 2002, the City required developers that were rezoning land to residential use to provide 10% of the homes as affordable units. Homes produced through rezoning applications have varying requirements, and include both rental and for-sale options. Because of this, it is important that any person considering purchasing an affordable unit read the covenant agreement and understand the restrictions associated with each project.