Garage conversion rules in Jefferson County, CO — sometimes called garage-to-ADU or accessory living unit conversions — govern permits, ceiling height, egress, and parking replacement.
Jeffco lets you convert an existing qualifying dwelling area into an ADU. Basements may be converted to an ADU regardless of the size or percentage-of-primary-unit cap. Detached ADUs include units above a detached garage. All conversions need a building permit and must meet ADU standards.
Under Section 19.D, an ADU may be created by converting an existing qualifying dwelling into an ADU (for example, by building a larger primary dwelling). Table 1 notes that basements may be converted to an ADU regardless of the square footage or percentage-of-primary-unit limits that otherwise cap ADU size, and that detached units include units above a detached garage or other outbuilding. Any ADU may be at least 500 sq ft regardless of the percentage cap. A converted unit must still meet accessory-structure setbacks (if detached), height limits, one extra off-street parking space per ADU bedroom, architectural-compatibility standards, and owner-occupancy. A building permit is required and reviewed by Planning & Zoning.
Converting a garage or basement into a second living unit without an ADU building permit is a zoning violation under C.R.S. 30-28-124, subject to correction orders and civil penalties.
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