Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Regulations in Denver

Max Size-

• 650 sq/ft for lots under 6,000 sq ft
• 864 sq ft for lots between 6,000 and 7,000 sq ft
• 1,000 sq ft for lots over 7,000 sq ft

Zoning: U-TU-B: The maximum ADU size is 1,000 sq ft regardless of lot size

Max Height- 36’

Currently, ADUs are permitted in all residential zone districts.

Denver has strict size and design limitations for ADUs to ensure they blend into existing neighborhoods:

• Maximum ADU Size:
  
  • 650 sq/ft for lots 6,000 sq/ft or smaller
  • 864 sq/ft for lots 6,001-7,999 sq/ft
  • 1,000 sq/ft for lots 8,000 sq/ft or larger
• Height Limits: ADUs cannot exceed 1.5 stories or 24 feet in height.
• Setbacks: Detached ADUs must be built within the rear 35% of the lot and have a minimum 5-foot rear setback.
• Architectural Compatibility: ADUs must be visually cohesive with the primary home, including materials, rooflines, and exterior finishes.
• Lot Coverage: ADUs must comply with maximum lot coverage requirements, which vary by zoning district.

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• HB 24-1152 requires cities to allow ADUs without designated parking, except in these cases:
  ✔ If no parking is currently required for the primary home, parking cannot be required for the ADU.
  ✔ If the lot does not have an existing parking space for the primary home, no additional parking is required.

• Parking: Denver does not require off-street parking for ADUs, but if a homeowner chooses to add parking, it must be accessed via an alley or shared driveway.
• Street Access: If the property has an alley, all driveways and garage access must come from the alley rather than a separate curb cut.

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• HB 24-1152 prohibits cities from requiring owner occupancy meaning ADUs can be rented out separately from the primary home.
• ADUs cannot be sold separately from the main home—they must remain part of the same lot.
• Short-term rentals (STRs) are still prohibited, except in Planned Unit Developments (PUDs) where STRs were previously allowed.

Short-term rentals (STRs) are allowed Utility & Infrastructure Requirements

• ADUs must share utility connections with the primary home, separate water or sewer taps are not allowed.
• Homeowners are responsible for all utility charges associated with the ADU.
• If the ADU requires expanded utility capacity, the homeowner may need to pay for larger service lines or additional system fees.

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Under HB 24-1152, all ADU approvals must be handled administratively—meaning there are:
✔ No public hearings
✔ No subjective design reviews
✔ No neighborhood approval required

1. Building Permit Application – Submitted with architectural drawings and site plans.
2. Plan Review & Approvals – Denver’s Community Planning and Development Department reviews and approves the ADU design.
3. Construction & Inspections – Once permitted, construction must comply with Denver’s building codes and pass inspections before occupancy is allowed.

The permit application fee starts at $1,000

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Navigating Denver’s ADU regulations can be complex, but Kindred Tiny Homes makes the process easy by handling every step from zoning approvals to final construction.

• We specialize in Denver’s ADU regulations—ensuring compliance with all zoning and permitting requirements.
• We provide full-service ADU development—from design and engineering to construction and project management.
• We maximize your investment—creating a high-quality ADU that enhances property value and meets your needs.

If you’re considering building an ADU in Denver, contact us today for a free consultation, we’ll guide you through your options and help bring your vision to life!

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