How Englewood Handles Accessory Structures: A Practical Guide

Englewood maintains 39 local ordinances across all categories, and 4 of those deal specifically with accessory structures. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Englewood falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Carport Rules

Englewood treats carports as accessory structures regulated under Title 16 of the Unified Development Code. The combined maximum size for all garages and carports on a property is 1,000 square feet, and a building permit is required. Each property is allowed two minor accessory structures, none of which may be used for living quarters. Site Plan review under EMC 16-2-9 applies.

Key details: Combined Garage+Carport Cap: 1,000 sq ft. Permit: Building permit required. Minor Structures Allowed: Up to 2 per property. Living Use: Prohibited (storage only).

Building a carport without the required building permit or exceeding the 1,000 sq ft combined cap on garages and carports: building code and zoning violations enforced by Community Development. Use of an accessory structure as living quarters: zoning violation. Non-compliant placement (setback or height): zoning violation subject to municipal citation and corrective orders.

ADU Rules

Englewood must comply with Colorado HB 24-1152 (effective June 30, 2025) as a subject jurisdiction in the Denver metro. The state law requires allowing ADUs of 500-750 sq ft with administrative approval. Either a primary home or ADU may serve as a short-term rental. The city's UDC governs accessory structure standards.

Key details: State Law: HB 24-1152 (eff. June 2025). Size: 500-750 sq ft required. Approval: Administrative only. STR Eligible: Yes, with primary residency.

Building without permit: building code violation. Non-compliance with size or setback standards: zoning violation.

Garage Conversions

Garage conversions for ADU creation are permitted under Colorado HB 24-1152. Conversions require building permits and must meet residential code standards. The state recommends not requiring replacement parking for garage-to-ADU conversions. Minimum 7'6" ceiling height applies.

Key details: Permit: Required. Ceiling Height: 7 ft 6 in minimum. Parking: Replacement not required (state). Code: 2021 IRC as adopted.

Conversion without permit: building code violation. Non-code-compliant occupancy: safety violation.

Shed Rules

Englewood regulates accessory structures through the Unified Development Code. A Site Plan review and permit may be required for garages, carports, storage sheds, and decks per EMC 16-2-9. Small structures may be exempt from building permits but must meet zoning standards.

Key details: Site Plan: May be required per EMC 16-2-9. Applies To: Garages, sheds, decks, carports. All Zones: Review in all zoning districts. Contact: 303-762-2342.

Building without required permit: building code violation. Non-compliant placement: zoning violation.

The Bottom Line

Englewood's accessory structures rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Englewood is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Englewood's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.