How Lakewood Handles Accessory Structures: A Practical Guide

Lakewood 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 Lakewood falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Carport Rules

Lakewood treats carports as detached accessory structures under the Lakewood Zoning Ordinance Article 5 (Sec. 17.5.5): rigid carports over 120 sq ft need a building permit, must sit behind the front edge of the primary residence, and must meet zone-specific setback and lot-coverage standards.

Key details: Zoning Reference: Lakewood Zoning Ord. Art. 5, Sec. 17.5.5. Permit Threshold: Rigid material over 120 sq ft. Location: Behind front edge of primary home. Soft Cover (Fabric/Pipe): Still meets zone setbacks/coverage. Rear-Lot 3 ft Setback: Under 120 sq ft and 10 ft tall.

Building a carport over 120 sq ft without a permit, placing it forward of the primary structure's front edge, exceeding zone setbacks or accessory lot-coverage limits, or using non-conforming materials can lead to stop-work orders, code-enforcement citations, and required relocation or removal of the structure.

ADU Rules

Lakewood allows Accessory Dwelling Units in certain residential zones. ADUs must meet size, setback, and design standards. A building permit is required.

Key details: Zones: Certain residential districts. Size: Subordinate to main dwelling. Owner Occupancy: May be required. Permits: Building and zoning required.

Unpermitted ADUs face code enforcement and orders to cease residential use.

Garage Conversions

Lakewood allows garage conversions with a building permit. Converted space must meet residential standards and parking requirements must be addressed.

Key details: Permit: Required. Standards: Habitable space codes apply. Parking: Must address parking loss. Energy Code: Compliance required.

Unpermitted conversions face code enforcement and possible orders to restore.

Shed Rules

Lakewood allows sheds with setback requirements. Sheds over 200 square feet generally require a building permit.

Key details: Permit Threshold: Over 200 sq ft or with utilities. Setbacks: 5 feet from property lines. Dwelling Use: Not permitted. Height: Limited for accessory structures.

Unpermitted sheds may require removal or modification.

The Bottom Line

Lakewood'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 Lakewood is broadly strict or permissive.

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