Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Regulations in Lakewood

Max Size- 1,400 sq/ft

Max Height- 

• Detached: 20’
• 30’ if located over a detached garage

ADUs are permitted in most residential zoning districts, but homeowners must check the Lakewood Zoning Ordinance to confirm eligibility.

Before starting an ADU project, homeowners should:

• Verify that their zoning district allows ADUs.
• Check dimensional requirements and setbacks for their property.
• Confirm water and sewer district regulations for ADU connections.

ADUs cannot be built in front of the primary residence and must comply with lot coverage and setback rules.

Lakewood has specific size and design standards to ensure ADUs fit within existing neighborhoods.

Maximum ADU Size

• ADUs cannot exceed 1,400 square feet of gross floor area.
• Only one ADU is allowed per lot.

Height Restrictions

• Detached ADUs: Maximum height of 20 feet.
• ADUs above a garage: Maximum height of 30 feet.

Architectural & Design Standards

• ADUs must match the appearance of the primary residence, including:
  
  • Exterior materials
  • Roof pitch
  • Color scheme
  • Architectural details
• ADUs must comply with Lakewood’s site plan process and development standards.

Waivers for design modifications may be granted, but only if approved through the city's formal process.

‍

• 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.

‍

• 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.

‍

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

Building an ADU in Lakewood requires homeowners to follow specific zoning and permitting steps, including:

1. Check with the Water and Sewer District – Confirm that the ADU can connect to the existing home’s water and sewer system.
2. Submit an ADU Supplemental Zoning Review Form – This form ensures compliance with zoning and land use regulations.
3. Prepare Construction Drawings – Work with a qualified ADU builder like Kindred Tiny Homes to design plans that meet Lakewood’s building and zoning codes.
4. Apply for a Building Permit – Submit architectural plans, site plans, and necessary documents to the city for approval.
5. Plan Review & Approvals – Lakewood’s Planning and Development Department will review the ADU plans for compliance.
6. Construction & Inspections – Once permitted, construction must comply with city building codes and pass inspections before occupancy is allowed.

‍

Navigating Lakewood’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 Lakewood’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 Lakewood, contact us today for a free consultation, we’ll guide you through your options and help bring your vision to life!

‍