Accessory Structures in Arvada, CO (2026)
3 verified accessory structures rules for Arvada, Colorado, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Arvada allows one accessory dwelling unit with every single-family detached home in residential, OT and MX zoning districts under Land Development Code Section 5-1-5-2, capped at 40 percent of the principal home's living space and a lot-size-based maximum from 600 to 1,200 square feet. Every ADU needs one added on-site parking space, and a garage built for the ADU cannot exceed 250 square feet.
Arvada Accessory Dwelling Unit Size and Parking
Some RestrictionsArvada Land Development Code § 5-1-5-2
A.Generally. Accessory Dwelling Units ("ADUs") are allowed in conjunction with all single-family detached dwellings in residential, OT and MX zoning districts, subject to the standards in this Section.B.Conformance to Development Standards. ADUs must meet the same development standards that are required for the principal dwelling unit, except as provided in this Section....C.Classification of A...
ADU Owner Occupancy
Arvada requires the property owner to live in either the principal home or the accessory dwelling unit under Land Development Code Section 5-1-5-2.K. The Director can waive the rule for documented absences under one year, but only after the owner has held the permit for at least two years, and the requirement is locked in through a deed restriction recorded before the building permit issues.
Arvada ADU Owner-Occupancy Requirement
Some RestrictionsArvada Land Development Code Section 5-1-5-2.K, Accessory Dwelling Units - Owner Occupancy
K.Owner Occupancy.1.The property owner, as reflected in title records and evidenced by voter registration, vehicle registration or other similar means, must occupy either the principal dwelling unit or ADU.2.The Director may waive this requirement for temporary absences of less than one year provided that the owner has maintained the permitted use for a minimum of two years and submits proof of...
Shed & Carport Rules
Arvada splits backyard structures into two size classes. Small sheds, playhouses and gazebos under 200 square feet and 12 feet tall qualify as "mini-structures" under Section 5-1-4-3 and need no building permit, capped at two per lot and barred from front yards. Larger storage sheds and detached garages fall under Section 5-1-5-3's accessory-building rules, which require a permit and setback compliance.
Arvada Shed and Accessory Building Rules
Some RestrictionsArvada Land Development Code §§ 5-1-4-3, 5-1-5-3
5-1-4-3. - Mini-structures. "Mini-Structures," including small sheds, playhouses and gazebos, are allowed as provided in Table 5-1-4-3, Mini-Structure Standards. ... Size (max) 200 sf. Height (max) 12 ft. ... Location of Mini-Structures Not allowed in front yard; Not attached to principal building; For corner lots, must comply with street side setbacks of the underlying zoning district ... 5-1-...
Looking for Jefferson County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Arvada city rules.
Accessory Structures in Jefferson County →