Drone Policy 

I. GENERAL POLICY STATEMENT 

Denver Zoo is committed to providing an environment that is safe and secure for guests, employees, volunteers, contractors, vendors and the animals in its care. Denver Zoo prohibits any person from using or operating any drone or UAS on or above the Denver Zoo campus or parking facilities managed by Denver Zoo except as otherwise stated within this policy or otherwise allowed by law. 

This policy applies to all persons on the Denver Zoo campus including guests, employees and volunteers, as well as individuals who are operating a drone outside of the Zoo campus but flying over campus. 

Persons in violation of Denver Zoo’s drone policy may be dealt with accordingly by law enforcement officers, including but not limited to criminal charges as well as fines. 

This policy will be published in the guest conduct policy and supersedes any contrary provisions. 

II. PURPOSE 

The purpose of this policy is to clearly explain Denver Zoo’s commitment to maintaining a safe and secure environment. This policy is a proactive step towards eliminating the use of drones on or over the Denver Zoo campus. The use of any drone or other UAS on campus or at Denver Zoo managed functions by any person not specifically authorized as explained within the policy is strictly prohibited and will result in action by Denver Zoo. This policy extends to any UAS operators who are operating outside of the Zoo campus with drones flying over campus. 

The reasonable restrictions found in this policy will serve to protect the animals maintained on the Denver Zoo campus and will not unduly restrict legitimate visitors from enjoying experiences and educational opportunities provided by Denver Zoo. 

III. SCOPE 

This policy is in effect for the Denver Zoo campus, as defined in Section IV below. This policy applies to all persons who at any time are at, on or within the Denver Zoo campus, including guests, employees, volunteers, contractors and vendors. Without limitation of any other policies or contract terms which may be applicable, all such guests, employees, volunteers, contractors and vendors are required to adhere to the terms of this policy. 

IV. DEFINITIONS 

a. “Denver Zoo campus” or “campus” shall mean the Denver Zoological Gardens located at 2300 Steele St, Denver, CO 80205. The Denver Zoo Campus includes all buildings, exhibits, structures, and outdoor premises at, on, over or within Denver Zoological Gardens and includes all parking facilities and structures for Denver Zoological Gardens. 

The Denver Zoo campus is managed and operated by Denver Zoological Foundation, Inc., a private Colorado non-profit corporation pursuant to a cooperative agreement between Denver Zoological Foundation, Inc. and the City and County of Denver. The Denver Zoo campus is located within City Park, a designated park under the Denver City Charter which is administered and managed under the auspices of the Denver Department of Parks and Recreation and the Executive Director of the Denver Department of Parks and Recreation. 

b. “Drone”, “drone” or “UAS” is defined as an aircraft without a human pilot onboard—with the aircraft being controlled by an operator on the ground.  

V. EXCEPTIONS 

This policy does not apply to the following persons or situations: 

a. Any employees, agents or officers of Denver Zoological Foundation acting within the authorized scope of their duties. 

b. Any person to whom the Security Operations Manager of Denver Zoological Foundation has given written authorization to fly over the property so long as they follow all rules and regulations of both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Denver Zoological Foundation. 

VI. CERTAIN LAWS AND REGULATIONS* 

*This Section VI does not contain an exhaustive list of all applicable state and local laws applicable to use and possession of firearms and other weapons and is not a substitute for review of applicable laws and, where appropriate, consultation with an attorney. 

a. Related Denver Department of Parks and Recreation – Park Use Rules and Regulations 

i. Denver Parks and Recreation § 14.3 – Flying Objects Banned 

ii. Denver Parks and Recreation § 10.1 – Misbehavior (disturbing the peace) 

iii. Denver Parks and Recreation § 10.2 – Disturbing the Noise (disturbing the peace) 

b. Related Denver Revised Municipal Code (“DRMC”) Provisions: 

i. DRMC § 37-50 – Public Nuisances Prohibited 

ii. DRMC § 38-117 – Offense Against Public Safety 

c. Colorado Revised Statutes (“CRS”) Provisions: 

i. CRS § 

VII. PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION OF DRONE POLICY 

a. Persons in violation of this Denver Zoological Foundation Inc. Drone Policy are trespassers and will be referred to and dealt with by appropriate law enforcement. In addition, Denver Zoological Foundation, Inc. may impose a temporary or permanent ban on future entry to the Denver Zoo campus, in the sole determination of Denver Zoological Foundation, Inc. 

b. Violations of City and County of Denver and State of Colorado laws will be referred to and dealt with by appropriate law enforcement. 

c. Nothing in this policy limits any additional penalties or consequences that may be set forth in separate agreements, contracts or other writings with any guest, employee, volunteer, contractor or vendor. 

VIII. PUBLISHED POLICY ITERATIONS 

This Denver Zoo Drone Policy may be published in a variety of iterations to accommodate for the appropriate audience and space constraints. A full version of this policy will always be available at www.denverzoo.org/dronepolicy. 

Current publications of this policy to Denver Zoo guests are as follows: 

i. Website 

1. Denver Zoo prohibits any person from using drones in or above the Denver Zoo campus or parking facilities managed by the Zoo. 

ii. Printed Map 

1. Drones, other UAS of any kind or similar objects are prohibited. 

iii. Posted Signs—Barriers 

1. N/A 

Media Policy  

We welcome the opportunity to work with credentialed journalists from broadcast, print and online outlets on stories about Denver Zoo. Members of the media must get in touch with our communications team at least 72 hours prior to visiting the Zoo (unless the circumstances require shorter notice) and be accompanied by a Denver Zoo employee at all times while on Zoo grounds. We reserve the right to set guidelines and limitations regarding filming and photography to ensure the safety of our animals, employees and guests. To arrange a visit to Denver Zoo to film, conduct interviews or request photos, please contact Jake Kubié. 

Personal Photography 

All photographs and other forms of artistic renderings made for contest entries, or personal, recreational or educational use are always permitted without any fee or special permission. Guests must always pay for admission and are asked to avoid obstructing or interfering with the enjoyment of other guests, such as blocking viewing areas or public pathways. 

Commercial Filming 

Denver Zoo is an ideal location to accommodate film shoots, documentaries and photo shoots for your commercial needs. Please note that all images captured at Denver Zoo are the property of the Denver Zoological Foundation and any commercial use or profit-making from the images requires permission from the Zoo (all of the animals at Denver Zoo are the private property of the Denver Zoological Foundation and their images are therefore under copyright protection and cannot be sold without our consent). The commercial use of photographs, video and film taken at the Zoo is strictly prohibited without the full written consent of Denver Zoo. To learn more about Denver Zoo’s Commercial Filming program, please contact us at commercial@denverzoo.org 

Contact 

Jake Kubié 
Director of Integrated Communications 
720-337-1644 

jkubie@denverzoo.org 

Privacy Policy 

Last updated: Jun 21, 2023 2:57 PM 

Denver Zoo values your right to privacy. Please read this Privacy Policy carefully before using the denverzoo.org Website (the “Website”) operated by Denver Zoological Foundation, a(n) Not For Profit formed in Colorado, United States (“us,” “we,” “our”) as this Privacy Policy contains important information regarding your privacy and how we may use the information we collect about you. 

Your access to and use of the Website is conditional upon your acceptance of and compliance with this Privacy Policy. This Privacy Policy applies to everyone, including but not limited to: visitors, users and others who wish to access or use this Website.  

By accessing or using this Website, you agree to be bound by this Privacy Policy. If you disagree with any part of the Privacy Policy, then you do not have our permission to access or use this Website. 

WHAT INFORMATION WE COLLECT 

We collect all information that you enter on this Website, including the following: 

Category of  Information	Specific Piece of Information	How We Use This Information
Identifying information	Name	• Processing or fulfilling orders or transactions; • Processing payments; • Providing customer service.
Identifying information	Postal / Shipping address	• Marketing and advertising; • Performing services; • Processing or fulfilling orders or transactions; • Processing payments; • Providing customer service; • Verifying customer information.
Identifying information	Phone number	• Processing or fulfilling orders or transactions; • Processing payments; • Providing customer service.
Identifying information	Billing Address	• Processing or fulfilling orders or transactions; • Processing payments; • Providing customer service.
Identifying information	IP Address	• Processing or fulfilling orders or transactions; • Processing payments; • Providing customer service.
Identifying information	Email Address	• Processing or fulfilling orders or transactions; • Processing payments; • Providing customer service.

Note that we do not use your personal information for targeted advertising or profiling. Please see the “Your Rights” section below for more information about exercising your privacy rights related to profiling and targeted advertising. 

WITH WHOM WE SHARE YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION 

We do not share your personal information with any third parties. 

SALE OF YOUR INFORMATION 

We do not sell your personal information. Please see the “Your Rights” section below for more information about exercising your privacy rights regarding the sale of your personal information. 

COOKIES 

A cookie is a small piece of data sent from a website and stored on your device by your web browser. This Website collects cookies and may use cookies for reasons including but not limited to: 

Analyzing our Website traffic; 

Analyzing your interactions with advertisements; 

Identifying if you are signed in to the Website; 

Testing content on the Website; 

Storing information about your preferences; 

Recognizing when you return to the Website. 

Most web browsers automatically accept cookies. However, you may modify your browser settings to decline cookies if you prefer. This setting may prevent you from taking full advantage of our Website. 

CHILDREN’S PRIVACY 

This Website is intended for use by a general audience and does not offer services to children. Should a child under 18 send personal information to us, we will use that information only to respond to that child to inform them that they cannot use this Website. 

ANALYTICS PROGRAMS 

This Website uses Google Analytics to collect information about you and your behaviors. If you would like to opt out of Google Analytics, please visit https://tools.google.com/dlpage/gaoptout/. 

YOUR RIGHTS 

All visitors and users of this Website have the following rights with regard to their personal information: 

The right to opt out of the use of your personal information for purposes of targeted advertising; 

The right to say no to the sale of your personal information; 

The right to opt out of the use of your personal information for the purposes of profiling in furtherance of decisions that produce legal or similarly significant effects concerning you; 

The right to access the personal information that we have collected about you; 

The right to request that we delete all or some of the information that we have collected on you; 

The right to request that we amend any of the information that we have collected about you; 

The right to equal service and price, even if you exercise your privacy rights; 

The right to request your personal information in a portable and, to the extent feasible, readily usable format that allows you to transmit that information to another entity. 

EXERCISING YOUR RIGHTS 

You may exercise the rights specified above by submitting a consumer request to: 

Denver Zoo Guest Care Center 
guestcare@denverzoo.org 

We will need to verify your identity prior to effectuating your request. To verify your identity, you will need to provide us with the following information with your request: 

Name; 

Postal / Shipping address; 

Email address. 

You may also designate an authorized agent to exercise your rights on your behalf. You may designate an agent via any of the ways used to submit requests on your behalf. We will request the agent to verify that he or she has the authority to submit requests on your behalf. We will do so by asking the agent to submit the following information: 

The requester’s valid government-issued ID. 

Please note that we may not be able to process your request if your designated agent and/or you do not provide us with the above information. 

We will respond to most consumer requests within 45 days of receipt. However, some requests may take longer. We will notify you in writing if we need more time to respond (up to 90 days total). We have the ability to deny your request(s) if certain exceptions in the law apply. If we deny your request, we will provide you with reasons for such denial. 

You have the right to appeal a refusal to take action on a rights request. You may file an appeal to us at the contact information provided above. We will respond to most appeal requests within 45 days of receipt. However, some requests may take longer. We will notify you in writing if we need more time to respond (up to 90 days total). In our response to your appeal, we will inform you of any actions taken or not taken and the reason(s) as to why. Normally, we do not charge a fee to process or respond to consumer requests. However, we may charge a fee for a second or subsequent request within a 12-month period. 

QUESTIONS 

If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy, please contact us at guestcare@denverzoo.org. 

Weapons Policy 

I. GENERAL POLICY STATEMENT 

Denver Zoo is committed to providing an environment that is safe and secure for guests, employees, volunteers, contractors, vendors and the animals in its care. Denver Zoo prohibits any person from using, possessing, carrying, displaying or distributing any weapon on, at or within the Denver Zoo campus (as defined in Section IV below), except as otherwise stated within this policy. 

Any instrument or device that has been designed to or can be used to threaten or cause harm to another individual, either offensively or defensively, will be considered a weapon. The term weapon is further defined in Section IV below. 

Persons in violation of Denver Zoo’s Weapons Policy shall be considered trespassers and will be dealt with accordingly by law enforcement, including but not limited to being removed and banned from the Denver Zoo campus. 

II. PURPOSE 

The purpose of this policy is to clearly explain Denver Zoo’s commitment to maintaining a safe and secure environment. This policy is a proactive step towards reducing and eliminating the risks associated with intentional or accidental use of weapons. 

III. SCOPE 

This policy is in effect for the Denver Zoo campus, as defined in Section IV below. This policy applies to all persons who at any time are at, on or within the Denver Zoo campus, including guests, employees, volunteers, contractors and vendors. Without limitation of any other policies or contract terms which may be applicable, all such guests, employees, volunteers, contractors and vendors are required to adhere to the terms of this policy. 

IV. DEFINITIONS 

a. “Denver Zoo campus” shall mean the Denver Zoological Gardens located at 2300 Steele St, Denver, CO 80205. The Denver Zoo campus includes all buildings, exhibits, structures and outdoor premises at, on or within Denver Zoological Gardens, including all parking facilities and structures for Denver Zoological Gardens. 

The Denver Zoo campus is managed and operated by Denver Zoological Foundation, Inc., a private Colorado non-profit corporation pursuant to a cooperative agreement between Denver Zoological Foundation, Inc. and the City and County of Denver. The Denver Zoo campus is located within City Park, a designated park under the Denver City Charter which is administered and managed under the auspices of the Denver Department of Parks and Recreation and the Executive Director of the Denver Department of Parks and Recreation. 

b. “Weapon” or “weapon” is defined to include: 

i. Any instrument or device that shoots or delivers a bullet, BB, pellet, arrow, dart, flare, electrical charge or other projectile (including but not limited to firearms), whether loaded or unloaded, including those devices powered by CO2 and/or any ammunition. 

ii. Any explosive device including fireworks. 

iii. Any other instrument or device that has been designed to or can be used to threaten or cause harm to another individual either offensively or defensively, including knives with a blade greater than 4 inches or chemicals. 

c. “Firearm” or “firearm” is defined as a pistol, handgun, rifle or shotgun and any/all ammunition. 

V. EXCEPTIONS 

a. This policy does not prohibit the use, possession, carrying, displaying or distribution of firearms or other weapons by: 

i. Certified Law Enforcement Officers (Federal, State, County, Municipal) acting within the scope of their employment. 

ii. On-duty members of the United States Armed Forces. 

iii. An individual licensed by the city of Denver as a security guard with a firearms endorsement and acting in performance of their duties. 

iv. An individual transporting the weapon while travelling within a private automobile or other private means of conveyance for the purposes of hunting or the lawful protection of such person, their property, another person or that person’s property. Except for pistols and revolvers, any firearm being transported must be unloaded during such transport. 

b. The above exception applies only to guests. Except as provided in Section V(a) above, no employee, volunteer, vendor or contractor may carry, or use, possess, display or distribute a firearm or other weapon at, on or within the Denver Zoo campus under any circumstances. 

VI. CERTAIN LAWS AND REGULATIONS* 

*This Section VI does not contain an exhaustive list of all applicable state and local laws applicable to the use and possession of firearms and other weapons and is not a substitute for review of applicable laws and, where appropriate, consultation with an attorney. 

a. Related Denver Revised Municipal Code (“DRMC”) Provisions: 

i. DRMC §37-51 – Public Nuisances Prohibited (public nuisance is defined in DRMC §37-50(c)) 

ii. DRMC §38-117 – Offenses against Public Order and Safety / Weapons and Missiles / Dangerous or deadly weapons—Prohibitions. 

iii. DRMC §38-130 – Denver Ordinance Banning Assault Weapons 

iv. DRMC §38-131 – Denver Ordinance Prohibiting Firearms in City-Owned or Leased Buildings 

v. DRMC §39-9 – Prohibitions on Firearms in Denver Parks 

VII. PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION OF WEAPONS POLICY 

a. Persons at, on or within the Denver Zoo campus and in violation of this Denver Zoo Weapons Policy are trespassers and will be referred to and dealt with by appropriate law enforcement. In addition, Denver Zoological Foundation, Inc. may impose a temporary or permanent ban on future entry to the Denver Zoo campus in the sole determination of Denver Zoological Foundation, Inc. 

b. Violations of City and County of Denver and State of Colorado laws will be referred to and dealt with by appropriate law enforcement. 

c. Nothing in this policy limits any additional penalties or consequences that may be set forth in separate agreements, contracts or other writings with any guest, employee, volunteer, contractor or vendor. 

d. By determination of Law Enforcement and Pursuant to DRMC §38-131, a person at guilt or held liable will be subject to the following maximum penalties: (1) First Violation…$50.00, (2) Second and Subsequent Violations…$999.00 and/or up to 300 days in jail for subsequent offenses. 

VIII. REPORTING OF WEAPONS 

Denver Zoological Foundation, Inc. will take reports of all weapons at, on or within the Denver Zoo campus very seriously. All members of the Denver Zoo community are responsible for reporting weapons. 

a. If there is an immediate threat of violence, call 911 right away. 

b. Non-threatening reports may be reported to Denver Zoo Security at 303 880-3266. 

c. Retaliation against any individual of the Denver Zoo community who reports the presence of weapons on campus is a violation of this policy. Any individual who engages in retaliation will be subject to penalties similar to those imposed for possession of a weapon. 

IX. PUBLISHED POLICY ITERATIONS 

This Denver Zoo Weapons Policy may be published in a variety of iterations to accommodate for the appropriate audience and space constraints. A full version of this policy will always be available at www.denverzoo.org/weaponspolicy. 

Current publications of this policy to Denver Zoo guests are as follows: 

i. Website 

1. Except as permitted by state or city law, Denver Zoo prohibits any person from using, possessing, carrying, displaying or distributing any real or simulated weapon on or within the Denver Zoo campus, including but not limited to firearms, certain knives (see D.R.M.C. §38-117, 38-119, and 38-131), explosives or incendiary devices, toy blasters, squirt guns, plastic knives or swords. The Denver Zoo campus includes Denver Zoo parking facilities and structures. 

ii. Printed Map 

1. Except as permitted by state or city law, Denver Zoo prohibits any person from using, possessing, carrying, displaying or distributing any real or simulated weapon on or within the Denver Zoo campus, including but not limited to firearms, certain knives (see D.R.M.C. §38-117, 38-119, and 38-131), explosives or incendiary devices, toy blasters, squirt guns, plastic knives or swords. The Denver Zoo campus includes Denver Zoo parking facilities and structures. 

Revised: August 22, 2018 

Service Animal Policy 

I. GENERAL POLICY STATEMENT 

Denver Zoo is committed to providing an environment that is safe and secure for guests, employees, volunteers, contractors, vendors and the animals in its care. This policy applies to all persons on the Denver Zoo campus including guests, employees, volunteers, contractors and vendors. 

Service animals are welcome at Denver Zoo. Persons entering the zoo with a service animal must check-in with security upon entry and will be provided with a map and detailed instructions on how to enjoy the Zoo without causing distress to our animals. Under the ADA, a service animal is defined as a dog or miniature horse that has been trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability. 

Emotional support, therapy, companion, comfort or assistance animals and pets do not qualify as service animals under the ADA and are not permitted on the Denver Zoo campus at any time. 

Service animals must be under the control of the animal’s owner at all times. Service animals must have a harness, leash or other tether unless the handler’s disability prohibits their use or if the animal’s tasks would be directly hindered by such equipment. 

The number of service animals in training is limited to two (2) per group. 

A minimum distance of five feet must be maintained between the service animal and the zoo exhibit railings or glass. The service animal’s owner shall quickly move away from any exhibit if any zoo animal begins to appear agitated. 

Service animals are not permitted in any of the following areas (the animals in these areas are sensitive and the mere presence of any dog presents a significant danger of undue stress and/or injury to the animals in our care): 

• In or directly around Zoo Gardens 

• In or directly around Wildlife Theater Plaza during bird flight times (from 10:00-10:30 a.m. and 1:30–2:00 p.m.) 

• Inside the Giraffe Building 

• Inside the Giraffe Encounter Area (deck) 

• Anywhere around The Edge tiger habitat 

• Inside the Lorikeet Adventure structure 

• Inside the Forest Aviary structure within Primate Panorama 

• Inside the Village Hall building within Toyota Elephant Passage 

II. PURPOSE 

The purpose of this policy is to clearly explain Denver Zoo’s commitment to maintaining a safe and secure environment for Denver Zoo guests, employees and the animals in its care. This policy is a proactive step towards welcoming service animals while restricting the admittance of support or companion animals and pets. The presence of unknown animals, such as service or other, may cause distress for the animals in the Zoo’s care. 

The reasonable restrictions found in this policy will serve to protect the animals maintained on the Denver Zoo campus and will not unduly restrict legitimate visitors from enjoying experiences and educational opportunities provided by Denver Zoo. 

III. SCOPE 

This policy is in effect for the Denver Zoo campus, as defined in Section IV below. This policy applies to all persons who at any time are at, on or within the Denver Zoo campus, including guests, employees, volunteers, contractors and vendors. Without limitation of any other policies or contract terms which may be applicable, all such guests, employees, volunteers, contractors and vendors are required to adhere to the terms of this policy. 

IV. DEFINITIONS 

a. “Denver Zoo campus” or “campus” shall mean the Denver Zoological Gardens located at 2300 Steele St, Denver, CO 80205. The Denver Zoo Campus includes all buildings, exhibits, structures and outdoor premises at, on, over or within Denver Zoological Gardens, including all parking facilities and structures for Denver Zoological Gardens. 

The Denver Zoo campus is managed and operated by Denver Zoological Foundation, Inc., a private Colorado non-profit corporation pursuant to a cooperative agreement between Denver Zoological Foundation, Inc. and the City and County of Denver. The Denver Zoo campus is located within City Park, a designated park under the Denver City Charter, which is administered and managed under the auspices of the Denver Department of Parks and Recreation and the Executive Director of the Denver Department of Parks and Recreation. 

b. “Service animal,” as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), are either trained canines or miniature horses only. Service animals are individually trained to perform a task for the benefit of an individual with a disability. Therapy, companion, comfort or assistance animals do not qualify as service animals and are not protected under the ADA. Service animals are not required to be listed on a registry, possess paperwork declaring the animal as a service animal or wear a service animal vest. 

V. EXCEPTIONS 

There are no exceptions to this policy. 

VI. CERTAIN LAWS AND REGULATIONS* 

*This Section VI does not contain an exhaustive list of all applicable state and local laws applicable to service animals and is not a substitute for review of applicable laws and, where appropriate, consultation with an attorney. 

a. Colorado State Law HB16 –1426: 

i. Intentional Misrepresentation Assistance Animal – Concerning intentional misrepresentation of entitlement to an assistance animal. 

b. Colorado Revised Statutes (“CRS”) Provisions: 

i. CRS § 24-34-803 – Rights of individuals with service animals 

c. Americans with Disabilities Act 

VII. DENVER ZOOLOGICAL FOUNDATION RIGHTS 

a. The Denver Zoo reserves the right to ask a handler to remove their service animal if the animal is disruptive, aggressive or is not housebroken. 

VIII. PUBLISHED POLICY ITERATIONS 

This Denver Zoo Service Animal Policy may be published in a variety of iterations to accommodate for the appropriate audience and space constraints. 

Current publications of this policy to Denver Zoo guests are as follows: 

a. Website 
b. Printed Map 
c. Posted Signs 

Copyright and Trademark Notice 

WWW.DENVERZOO.ORG contains materials provided by Denver Zoo and other sources. All content is copyrighted to Denver Zoo as a collective work under U.S. copyright laws. This site is for your personal, non-commercial use and you may not modify, copy, sell, distribute, transmit, display, perform, reproduce, publish or license any material from this site, including code or software. Violation of applicable Intellectual Property Laws may give rise to civil and/or criminal penalties. Copyright © 2000 Denver Zoological Foundation, 2300 Steele Street, Denver, Colorado, 80205, USA. All rights reserved. 

Denver Zoo graphics, logos, service marks and trademarks of Denver Zoo may not be used without prior written consent of Denver Zoo. All other trademarks, product names, company names and logos appearing on WWW.DENVERZOO.ORG are the property of the Denver Zoo. 

The Denver Zoological Foundation has incorporated the latest Internet technological standards to design a secure purchase area of WWW. DENVERZOO.ORG. Under no uncertain terms, any information you send us while within the secure shopping area is protected by encryption. You can tell when you are in our secure shopping area by viewing the lock or key at the bottom of your browser. An unlocked or broken key (depending on your browser) means you are in an unsecured area. 

Shopping on the internet is safe and online credit card transactions are no more risky than other means of shopping. Our encryption methods make credit card fraud even more difficult than mail or phone orders or even in-person purchases. If you experience fraudulent use of your credit card as a result of using our website, notify your credit card company per its rules and procedures. Most credit card companies will either cover the fraudulent purchases or hold you liable for no more than $50. 

Consumer Image Policy & Guest Awareness 

Thank you for visiting Denver Zoo. During your visit you may be filmed, videotaped or photographed by a Denver Zoo employee or contract service professional. Your admission to our facility serves as permission for use of your image by Denver Zoo and its constituents. Please take photos and video for your personal use. The commercial use of photographs, videos and films you may have taken during your visit is strictly prohibited without the full written consent of Denver Zoo. 

Registration, Petition and Protestor Policy 

I. DEFINITIONS: 

a. “Denver Zoo campus” or “campus” shall mean the Denver Zoological Gardens located at 2300 Steele St, Denver, CO 80205. The Denver Zoo campus includes all buildings, exhibits, structures and outdoor premises at, on, over or within Denver Zoological Gardens, including all parking facilities and structures for Denver Zoological Gardens. 

The Denver Zoo campus is managed and operated by Denver Zoological Foundation, Inc., a private Colorado non-profit corporation pursuant to a cooperative agreement between Denver Zoological Foundation, Inc. and the City and County of Denver. The Denver Zoo campus is located within City Park, a designated park under the Denver City Charter which is administered and managed under the auspices of the Denver Department of Parks and Recreation and the Executive Director of the Denver Department of Parks and Recreation. 

II. POLICY 

a. BUSINESS RIGHTS AND PRIVATE PROPERTY: The plaza, main parking area, parking garage and Denver Zoo grounds are considered private property of Denver Zoo (shown in Appendix A below). Denver Zoo is a public scientific cultural facility dedicated for public recreation, education and for preserving, exhibiting and advancing the study and appreciation of wildlife. Denver Zoo may impose reasonable restrictions on the time, place and manner of use of the facility by the public. Since the Zoo is dedicated to a particular use, the public may not exercise its right to freedom of speech and assembly within the Zoo grounds or buildings in a way inconsistent with the facility’s primary use. The Zoo may restrict behavior on the part of the public which is unreasonably noisy, disruptive or which might capture unwilling audiences. Conduct on the part of the public, which for any reason materially disrupts the Zoo’s activities or involves substantial disorder or the invasion of the rights of others is not protected by the Constitution. If any person or group is speaking loudly or otherwise conducting themselves in a way which is disruptive of the rights of others, that individual or group should be asked to desist, and if they refuse to do so, asked to leave the Zoo grounds. If they refuse to leave, Denver Zoo Security will contact the Denver Police Department for assistance in removing that individual or group from the Zoo. 

b. REGISTRARS, PETITIONERS, PROTESTORS: Any person wishing to register voters, collect signatures for any purpose or conduct a peaceful protest must not do so within the Denver Zoo Management Boundary (shown in Appendix A below). These persons may conduct their peaceful business within other areas of City Park provided they do not obstruct sidewalks, pedestrian pathways or walkways, bicycle lanes, roadways, parking spaces or vehicle drive lanes, and that they abide by all other provisions of this policy and all applicable laws. 

c. VOTER REGISTRATION: Any person wishing to register voters must remain outside of the Denver Zoo Management Boundary (shown in Appendix A below). Voter Registrars must not stand in the middle of the sidewalk blocking Zoo visitors. Voter Registrars may not approach visitors but may answer questions from visitors if asked. Voter Registrars may not have any party affiliation t-shirts or buttons, logos, signs or tables with them. 

d. PETITONERS, BALLOT INITIATIVES AND PROTESTORS: All petitioners and protestors must remain outside of the Denver Zoo Management Boundary (shown in Appendix A below). Tables or other setup materials constituting a rally or assembly are prohibited. All rallies and assemblies MUST have a permit from the city to be on park property (Denver City Ordinance 55-08, City and County of Denver Revised Municipal Code). By definition, an assembly includes demonstration, picketing, speech-making, marching, holding of vigils and all other forms of conduct that include the communication or expression of ideas, views or grievances, engaging fifty (50) or more persons which has the effect, purpose or propensity to draw a crowd or onlookers. Assembly may also be designated if the group engages any type of permanent or temporary structures, including but not limited to tables, tents or chairs. (Denver City Ordinance 55-08, City and County of Denver Revised Municipal Code) 

e. LEAFLETS: Distribution of leaflets, flyers or any printed materials, commercial or otherwise, is strictly prohibited within the Denver Zoo Management Boundary (shown in Appendix A below) (Denver City Ordinance #310.85, Section 3.1, City and County of Denver Revised Municipal Code). 

f. FUNDRAISING: No fundraising or soliciting of funds is allowed within the Denver Zoo Management Boundary (shown in Appendix A below). 

III. APPENDIX A: DENVER ZOO MANAGEMENT BOUNDARY. 

a. Registrars, petitioners and protestors are NOT permitted to gather in any area within the highlighted boundary (yellow) in the image below. The yellow stars in the image represent recommended (but not required) areas where registrars, petitions and protestors may gather. The rest of City Park is open to the general public. At no time shall any persons or objects obstruct sidewalks, pedestrian pathways or walkways, bicycle lanes, roadways, parking spaces or vehicle drive lanes. 

Event Policies + Guidelines 

GENERAL 

• All events at Denver Zoo will occur rain or shine. 

• No pets are permitted on Denver Zoo grounds. 

• Feeding of zoo animals, including free roaming animals is strictly prohibited. 

• Smoking is prohibited on Denver Zoo grounds. 

• Children under the age of 16 must be supervised at all times. 

• All guests must have an event ticket for entry. 

• Animal demonstrations and/or meet and greets are not guaranteed and will be refunded if it does not occur during the event. 

• Group is liable for the actions of their invitees. 

• For the safety of our animals, Denver Zoo does not allow balloons, balls, flying objects of any sort, piñatas, etc. 

PAYMENT POLICY 

• To guarantee your event, a signed contract along with a 100% deposit is due within two weeks of receiving a contract from Denver Zoo. If the signed contract and payment are not received within two weeks, the event space shall be released for general sale. 

• Any fees incurred the day of the event (i.e. additional event tickets) must be paid within two weeks of the event date. 

• Denver Zoo accepts most major credit cards and company checks. 

CANCELLATION POLICY 

• Any cancellation must be submitted in writing via e-mail or certified mail. 

• Cancelations made at or more than 181 days prior to the event will incur a 0% cancelation fee. 

• Cancelations made between 61 and 180 days prior to the event will incur a 50% cancelation fee. 

• Cancelations made at or less than 60 days prior to the event will incur a 100% cancelation fee. 

TICKETS 

• All guests will need a private event admission ticket to enter the zoo. Although children ages two and under are free, an admission ticket to enter the zoo and attend the event is required. 

• All guests, including yourself, employees, attendees and vendors must have private event admission tickets to enter the zoo and attend the event. 

• Rental fees include an allotment of tickets based on your contract specifications and event venue. 

• Memberships are not valid for private event entry. 

LOAD IN/LOAD OUT POLICY 

• Access gates, closer to the event space may be available. Request for the use of these gates for load-in/load-out purposes must be submitted in advance for approval. 

• Client access to the event space for set-up is available 30 minutes prior to the contracted event start time. Additional time may be requested but is not guaranteed. 

OUTSIDE VENDOR POLICY 

• Music for events is subject to approval from Denver Zoo. 

• For evening events, all bands, DJs and entertainment performances must perform a sound check with appointed Denver Zoo staff before the event begins. 

• Vendors have one hour to set up before their designated rental time and one hour after the end of their rental time. Overage costs are $250.00 per hour and per staff member. 

• Electrical requirements must be received no later than two weeks from the event date. Denver Zoo does not guarantee additional electricity on the day of the event and does not have an electrician on site. 

• Denver Zoo must approve all giveaways, handouts and prizes associated with the event at least one month prior to the event date. 

STORAGE 

• Storage facilities are not provided for events. 

• All items in conjunction with events must be brought on the day of the event and removed immediately after. There is a $150 removal fee for any leftover trash, promotional materials or boxes. 

• Any items that must be shipped to Denver Zoo in conjunction with an event need prior approval and will incur a $50 handling fee. 

• All deliveries must be prearranged and approved by your Denver Zoo contact and must be delivered during normal shipping hours, preferably on the day of your event. 

PARKING 

• Parking is complimentary and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please communicate to your guests to arrive early and allow extra time for parking, especially during peak times such as Zoo Lights or summer weekend events. 

• If bus parking is needed for your event, Denver Zoo must be notified at least two weeks prior to your event date. 

PROMOTIONAL USE 

• Any use of the Denver Zoo logo, pictures, and name for invitations or promotional use for your event must be reviewed and approved by our Corporate Events Department prior to print and distribution. 

• The client agrees that they will not sell tickets, market or promote the event to the general public in order to attract, solicit or generate attendance at Denver Zoo without written approval from Denver Zoo. Approval may be withheld at our sole discretion. 

• Sponsors associated with the event will require advance approval from Denver Zoo. Please submit a list of sponsors three months prior to the event date. 

CATERING 

• All food and beverage catering must be arranged through our exclusive onsite caterer, Taste Catering. We do not allow outside caterers. 

• In addition to your venue rental fee, a minimum catering spend must be met. 

• Your final guaranteed guest count for catering is due seven business days prior to your event date. 

• Although food and liquor may be taken from your private rental location into other areas of the Zoo, we do not allow food or liquor to be taken off Denver Zoo grounds during or after your event. 

• Taste Catering is responsible for providing and handling all liquor while on the Denver Zoo campus.