Denver Applies For 5-Star Certification Program

DENVER, CO — Denver has applied for a state program that would allow businesses to implement less-restrictive capacity caps.

Denver Economic Development and Opportunity submitted an application Thursday to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. The application seeks a variance to participate in the state’s Five Star Certification program, which encourages businesses to implement safety measures above and beyond what public health orders require.

In exchange, businesses can accelerate their reopening and operate on a less-restrictive level than the city's current level on the COVID-19 dial.

Denver is set to move to 'Level Orange' Monday after Gov. Jared Polis requested the shift for all Level Red counties.

"Details for the Denver program and application period will be available within the next couple weeks," Denver city officials said in a news release.

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Some counties, such as Arapahoe and Douglas counties, have already been approved for the program, which requires declining coronavirus numbers and adequate hospital capacity.