Boulder's Compatible Development standards in BRC Title 9 cap floor-area ratio, height, side-wall articulation, and bulk-plane intrusions in low-density neighborhoods, limiting mansionization while allowing modest growth.
Adopted to address neighborhood-character concerns in established Boulder neighborhoods like Newlands, Mapleton Hill, and Martin Acres, the Compatible Development rules in BRC Title 9 (Land Use Code) impose a floor-area ratio cap, side-wall articulation, bulk-plane envelope, and rear setbacks scaled to lot size. The standards apply to additions and new construction in low-density residential zones and require Planning and Development Services review. Designated historic districts add Landmarks Board oversight. Together with the city's growth-management ordinance and inclusionary zoning, the rules limit teardown-rebuild mansionization while still permitting reasonable expansion.
Permit denial; required redesign; stop-work orders if construction exceeds approved envelope; demolition or covenant remedies in extreme cases.
See how Boulder's anti-mansionization rules stack up against other locations.
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