Home Rule
Centennial was incorporated in 2001 as a statutory city, governed by Colorado state laws. On November 6, 2007, residents elected 21 community members to serve on a Home Rule Charter Commission with the task of drafting a charter within 120 days.
On June 10, 2008, Centennial voters approved the Home Rule Charter, giving the City greater control over matters of local concern—such as sales tax collection and audit. The approved charter now serves as the City’s “constitution,” guiding how we govern and make decisions.
Centennial believes the people who live and work here should shape the future of our community. Home Rule, a principle in the Colorado Constitution, gives cities like Centennial the ability to make local decisions—particularly in areas like planning and zoning—based on what’s best for our residents.
Read the Home Rule Charter.(PDF, 1MB)
Read the Legislative Policy Statement.
Legal Action Supporting Home Rule Authority
On May 19, 2025, six Colorado municipalities filed a lawsuit against the State of Colorado, seeking court orders to prevent enforcement of two housing bills passed during the 2024 legislative session:
The lawsuit argues that both bills are unconstitutional and infringe upon the municipalities’ home rule authority to govern zoning and land use, as protected by Article XX, Section 6 of the Colorado Constitution.
Additionally, the lawsuit challenges the enforcement of Executive Order D-2025-005, issued by the Governor on May 16, 2025. This order would place municipalities that do not comply with the housing laws lower on the list for receiving grants, incentives, contracts, loans, and tax credits tied to 2024–2025 housing legislation.
Related Documents
Pursuant to Resolution Number 2025-R-24, adopted June 17, 2025, the City supports the home rule municipalities in the litigation against the state and asserts home rule authority over local land use and zoning.