The city of Denver has passed an ordinance limiting new gas station construction with the intention that it will lower housing costs and optimize land use, reported CBS News.

“The Denver City Council approved Tuesday's zoning code amendment, retroactively applying it to proposals submitted after May 13, 2024. The ordinance prohibits gas stations from being built within a quarter mile of an existing station. It also blocks projects submitted after the deadline, impacting at least a half-dozen land deals,” wrote the outlet.

Buildings of at least 20,000 square feet are an exception to the rule in a move to encourage grocery store developments in underserved neighborhoods, wrote Denver 7 News.

This ordinance comes after councilmembers Diana Romero Campbell, Amanda Sawyer and Paul Kashmann proposed the law, arguing that Denver needs more residences than gas stations, reported local news outlet KDVR.

The ordinance passed in a 12-1 vote. Councilmember Flor Alvidrez for District 7 was the only one to vote against the ordinance, stating that not building a gas station doesn’t mean there will be affordable housing in place, wrote KDVR.

Alvidrez said her goal is to streamline zoning codes for predictable business practices. She reportedly noted the community benefits of what gas stations provide, such as jobs, resources for the unhoused and public restrooms. Additionally, she expressed concerns about the ordinance's environmental impact and future proofing, noting potential technological advancements could necessitate changes.

Also in Denver, the push to sell flavored tobacco products in the city continues even though Denver City Council voted 11-1 to ban the sale of flavored tobacco products within city limits in December, reported Denver 7. “Opponents of the ban are now trying to overturn this decision which would go into effect on March 18, 2025, by having voters instead decide on the measure in November.”