5 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 1 city in Denver County, Colorado.
Verified from official government sources
Denver allows ADUs by right in all residential zones since 2023 zoning updates. No owner-occupancy required as of state HB 24-1152 (effective June 2025). ADUs capped at 1.5 stories / 24 ft height.
All Denver sheds require a zoning permit. Sheds over 8 feet tall or over 200 sq ft also require a building permit. Each property is limited to one shed plus one accessory structure.
Denver allows garage-to-ADU conversions in most residential zones since the 2023 zoning update. Building permits required. Converted garages must meet ADU standards including fire safety and egress.
Denver requires a building permit for all carports over 120 sq ft per Denver Building Code 105.2. Zoning setbacks apply (typically 5 ft side/rear, varies by district). Count toward lot coverage.
Denver allows tiny homes on permanent foundations as ADUs or primary dwellings following 2018 IRC Appendix Q (adopted by Denver). Tiny homes on wheels (THOW) classified as RVs — cannot be permanently occupied in residential zones.
1 cities in Denver County have their own accessory structures rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.
See every category we cover for Denver County — parking, noise, fences, fires, animals, pools, and more.
Denver County Ordinance Hub →