Accessory Structures in Larimer County, CO (2026)
3 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 2 cities in Larimer County, Colorado.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Unincorporated Larimer County allows one Accessory Living Area per lot as a use by right. Since June 30, 2025 (HB24-1152) no planning review is needed before applying for the building permit. Size is capped by lot size under Table 3-15.
ADU (Accessory Living Area) Rules in Larimer County
Some RestrictionsLarimer County Land Use Code §3.4.5.A
With the passage of Colorado House Bill 24-1152, which goes into effect June 30, 2025, Larimer County no longer requires applicants to go through a planning process before applying for an Accessory Living Area building permit. One accessory living area is permitted per lot.
Shed & Carport Rules
In unincorporated Larimer County, a one-story storage shed under 200 sq ft with no utilities needs no building permit, but it must still meet Land Use Code setbacks, floodplain and lot-coverage rules. Bigger sheds or any with utilities need a permit.
Shed & Detached Structure Rules in Larimer County
Some RestrictionsLarimer County Building Division - Detached Structures
No Building Permit is Required When All of the Following Apply... The structure is a one-story, detached accessory structure used as a tool or storage shed, playhouse or similar use. The floor area does not exceed 200 sq. ft. There are no utilities added... The maximum eave height is 10 feet.
Tiny Homes
By Colorado law a tiny house is 400 sq ft or less (excluding lofts). In unincorporated Larimer County, a tiny house on a permanent foundation is a legal dwelling with a building permit; a tiny house on wheels is treated as an RV and cannot be a year-round home.
Tiny Home Rules in Larimer County
Some RestrictionsLarimer County Community Development - Tiny Houses (HB22-1242; 2021 IRC App. Q)
By Colorado law and building code rules, Tiny Houses are 400 sq. ft. in floor area or less, excluding lofts... A 'Tiny House on Wheels' (THOW) is still considered a Recreational Vehicle (RV) and is regulated by the Land Use Code (LUC) instead of the building code... They are not considered permanent homes and cannot be occupied year-round.
Accessory Structures by City in Larimer County
2 cities in Larimer County have their own accessory structures rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.
All Larimer County ordinances
See every category we cover for Larimer County: parking, noise, fences, fires, animals, pools, and more.
Larimer County Ordinance Hub →