Commissioners Approve Accessory Dwelling Unit Code Amendment — December 2025

Commissioners Approve Accessory Dwelling Unit Code Amendment — December 2025

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 Carolyn Holmberg Preserve open space property encompasses 1,651 acres and features 4 miles of multi-use trails. Seasonal wildlife closures may apply from December 15 through July 15 to protect nesting raptors and elk calving areas.

Affordable housing remains the top priority identified in the 2025 Community Survey. Boulder County’s Worthy Cause program has funded 1,063 affordable housing units since its inception, with 143 additional units in the development pipeline.

Eligibility

The Sustainability, Climate Action & Resilience processed over 4,867 applications last year, with an average processing time of 12 business days. Staff are available at the Lyons office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

For questions about this program, contact Diana Orozco at Sustainability, Climate Action & Resilience: (303) 441-7010 or email Sustainability, Climate Action & [email protected]. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Walk-in services are available at the Lyons office without an appointment.