Greeley's Accessory Structures: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles accessory structures a little differently. In Greeley, Colorado, there are 4 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Carport Rules

Greeley regulates carports as accessory structures under Title 18 (and the newer Title 24) Development Code, plus the adopted residential building code in Title 22. Carports require a building permit, must meet zone-specific setbacks and height limits, and need a site plan showing distances to property lines.

Key details: Zoning Reference: Greeley Development Code (Title 18 / Title 24). Building Permit: Required (Title 22 Building Code). Site Plan: Two plot plans with dimensions and setbacks. Setbacks: Per underlying zoning district. Authority: Building Inspection 970-350-9830.

Constructing a carport without a building permit, encroaching into required setbacks, exceeding the zone's accessory height limit, or skipping required electrical permits can result in stop-work orders, code enforcement citations, and required removal or relocation of the structure.

ADU Rules

Greeley permits accessory dwelling units in certain residential zones. ADUs are subject to size limits, setback requirements, and may require owner occupancy of either the main home or ADU.

Key details: Permitted: In certain residential zones. Owner Occupancy: May be required. Permits: Building permits required. Authority: Community Development Department.

Unauthorized ADUs face code enforcement action and orders to cease residential use or remove the structure.

Garage Conversions

Greeley regulates garage conversions through building and zoning codes. Converting a garage to living space requires permits and must maintain minimum parking requirements.

Key details: Permits: Building permits required. Parking: Must maintain minimum requirements. Building Code: Habitable space standards apply. Authority: Building Division.

Unauthorized conversions result in code enforcement action and potential orders to restore the garage.

Shed Rules

Greeley regulates sheds and accessory buildings under the Development Code. Small sheds under 120 square feet may be exempt from permits but must comply with setback requirements.

Key details: Permit Exempt: Under 120 sq ft. Location: Rear or side yard. Height: 15 feet maximum. Setbacks: Must comply with zoning.

Sheds violating setbacks or built without required permits may need to be relocated or removed.

The Bottom Line

Greeley'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 Greeley is broadly strict or permissive.

These rules come from Greeley's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.