Aurora, CO Accessory Structures: ADU Rules (2026)

Aurora's Unified Development Ordinance permits one detached accessory dwelling unit (ADU) per single-family detached home, but only on lots served by an alley and larger than 6,000 square feet. The ADU must be fully detached (no shared walls), capped at 650 square feet and 24 feet in height, with at least 360 square feet of private common open space. One additional off-street parking space accessed from the alley is required, and the property owner must occupy either the primary home or the ADU. An ADU may be rented short-term only if the owner lives in the primary structure. Colorado has recently expanded state involvement in ADU policy statewide, so check for any state-law override before relying solely on this local standard.