ADU rules in Denver County, CO — also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances — cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
Denver allows ADUs by right in all residential zones since 2023 zoning updates. No owner-occupancy required as of state HB 24-1152 (effective June 2025). ADUs capped at 1.5 stories / 24 ft height.
Denver's July 2023 zoning code amendments expanded ADU allowances to all residential zone districts. Detached ADUs must be within the rear 35% of the lot with a minimum 5-foot rear setback. Maximum height is 1.5 stories or 24 feet. Minimum lot size requirements were relaxed. Existing garages meeting structural standards can be converted to ADUs. Colorado HB 24-1152 prohibits cities from requiring owner occupancy for ADUs, effective June 30, 2025, removing Denver's previous single-unit zone owner-occupancy requirement. STRs are still prohibited in ADUs (unless in eligible PUDs). No off-street parking required for ADUs. Utilities must share connections with the primary unit.
Building ADU without permits results in stop-work orders and fines. Unpermitted ADU conversions may require removal.
Denver County, CO
Denver DRMC Chapter 36 sets quiet hours 11 PM–7 AM in residential zones. Residential limit is 55 dBA daytime, 50 dBA nighttime. Violations can reach $5,000/day.
Denver County, CO
Denver has no outright ban on leaf blowers but phases in restrictions on gas-powered commercial landscape equipment. DRMC Chapter 36 noise limits apply, and ...
Denver County, CO
Denver requires driveways to meet setback and width standards. Blocking the public sidewalk is prohibited. Curb cuts require a permit from DOTI.
Denver County, CO
Denver limits large commercial vehicle parking on residential streets to 2 hours. A 2023 ordinance expanded restrictions citywide. Trucks used for active wor...
Denver County, CO
Denver requires a zoning permit for fences between 4–6 feet. Over-height (6+ ft) fences require an additional over-height fence permit. Historic properties r...
Denver County, CO
Colorado's Good Neighbor Fence Act (C.R.S. §35-46-112) applies. Denver does not mandate cost-sharing, but neighbors may negotiate. Disputes over boundary fen...
See how Denver County's adu rules rules stack up against other locations.
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