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Jefferson County, CO Building Setbacks & Zoning: Setback Rules (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

R-1 front setback
30 feet
R-1 side setback
5 ft min, 15 ft total
Side adjacent to arterial
30 feet
Measured from
Foundation or wall
Overhang protrusion
24 inches into setback

Summary

In the Residential-One (R-1) district, the primary-structure front setback is 30 feet, side setbacks are 5 feet minimum with 15 feet total, and side setbacks adjacent to a local or collector street are 20 feet (30 feet at an arterial). Setbacks vary by zone district.

City-specific rules exist: Lakewood, and Arvada have their own setback rules rules that differ from Jefferson County's county-level regulations. If you live in one of those cities, check the city-specific page instead.

Each side setback must be a minimum of 5 feet, and both side setbacks added together must equal 15 feet or more.

Full Breakdown

Section 30 of the Zoning Resolution sets minimum setbacks per residential district. In R-1, primary structures and garages have a 30-foot front setback (and a 30-foot front setback adjacent to an arterial). Each side setback must be at least 5 feet with both sides totaling 15 feet or more; side yards adjacent to a local/collector street are 20 feet and 30 feet at an arterial. Other districts (RR, R-2, R-3, R-4) carry different figures. Setbacks are measured from the foundation or wall, though eaves, overhangs and fireplaces may protrude 24 inches into the setback.

Violations & Fines

Structures built inside a required setback are zoning violations and may require a variance, relocation, or removal; a certified setback verification may be required before framing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far must my house sit from the side property line?
In R-1, each side setback must be at least 5 feet, and both side setbacks added together must equal 15 feet or more. Other districts differ.
Do eaves count against my setback?
No. Eaves, roof overhangs and fireplaces may protrude up to 24 inches into a required setback, since setbacks are measured from the foundation or wall.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Jefferson County

All Jefferson County rules

Compare Jefferson County to another location·View the Colorado building setbacks & zoning overview

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