November 2024: Commissioners Approve Accessory Dwelling Unit Code Amendment
The Board of County Commissioners has approved amendments to the Boulder County Land Use Code to streamline the process for building Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) on residential properties in unincorporated areas. Changes include reduced setback requirements, simplified design standards, and by-right approval for units under 800 square feet.
The program is modeled after similar successful initiatives in Larimer County and Jefferson County. Boulder County’s version includes additional provisions for wildfire mitigation, affordable housing, and environmental sustainability.
The Community Planning & Permitting processed over 10,982 applications last year, with an average processing time of 15 business days. Staff are available at the Lyons office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Related Programs
Environmental review of the project area near 75th Street found 6 sensitive species and 4 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Community Planning & Permitting worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.
Colorado state law requires all counties to provide these services to eligible residents. Boulder County exceeds minimum state requirements by offering expanded hours, multilingual support, and online access. In 2025, the county received a state award for excellence in service delivery.
Timeline
According to David Thompson, director of Community Planning & Permitting, this program served 88% more residents in 2025 compared to the previous year. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand from communities across Boulder County, particularly in Lyons and the surrounding area,” David Thompson said.
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