How Manitou Springs Handles Accessory Structures: A Practical Guide

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

Carport Rules

Carports in Manitou Springs are accessory structures regulated under Title 18 (Zoning) and require a two-step permit: a Property Improvement Permit (PIP) from the City of Manitou Springs first, then a building permit from the Pikes Peak Regional Building Department (PPRBD). Setbacks, height, and lot-coverage limits depend on the underlying residential zoning district; confirm the figures for your zone with city Planning before construction.

Key details: Code Title: Title 18 - Zoning (accessory structure). Permit Step 1: Property Improvement Permit (PIP) - City. Permit Step 2: Building permit - Pikes Peak Regional Building Dept. City Permit Office: 606 Manitou Avenue, (719) 685-5481. Setback / Height: Varies by zoning district - confirm with Planning.

Building a carport without a PIP and PPRBD building permit, encroaching into a required setback, exceeding the height cap for the underlying zone, or building inside the Historic District without HPC review can trigger stop-work orders, code-enforcement citations, daily fines, and required removal or relocation of the structure at the owner's expense.

Shed Rules

Accessory structures (sheds, workshops) in Manitou Springs require PPRBD permits if over 200 square feet. Given the city's steep terrain and historic character, accessory structure placement requires careful planning.

Key details: Permit Threshold: Structures over 200 sq ft require PPRBD permit. Typical Setbacks: 5 feet from side/rear property lines. Historic District: Design review may apply. Steep Terrain: Engineering may be required for footings. Planning Dept: 719-685-4398.

Unpermitted structure: retroactive permit with penalty. Non-compliant setback: modification or removal.

ADU Rules

Manitou Springs must comply with Colorado HB 24-1152 (effective June 30, 2025) requiring ADUs on all single-family lots. The city's steep terrain, historic character, and STR regulations add complexity to ADU development.

Key details: ADUs Required: Yes — HB 24-1152 mandates allowance by June 2025. STR Dual Use: Prohibited — cannot be both ADU and STR. Historic District: Design review may apply. Steep Terrain: May affect setback/drainage requirements. Planning Dept: 719-685-4398.

Unpermitted ADU: standard building code enforcement. May require demolition or legalization. Occupying unpermitted dwelling: code violation.

Garage Conversions

Garage conversions to living space or ADUs in Manitou Springs require PPRBD building permits. Historic district design review may apply. Converted garage space cannot be used as an STR if designated as an ADU.

Key details: Building Permit: Required — PPRBD: 719-327-2880. Historic District: Exterior changes may require design review. ADU/STR Dual Use: Prohibited — cannot be both. Parking Replacement: May be required per LUDC. Planning Dept: 719-685-4398.

Unpermitted conversion: building code enforcement. Must bring to code or restore. Safety violations: immediate correction.

The Bottom Line

Manitou Springs'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 Manitou Springs is broadly strict or permissive.

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