Update: Commissioners Approve Accessory Dwelling Unit Code Amendment (2026)

Update: Commissioners Approve Accessory Dwelling Unit Code Amendment (2026)

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.

Eligible participants include Boulder County residents with household incomes at or below 60% of Area Median Income (AMI). For a family of four, this is approximately $92,000 per year. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Transportation access remains a key concern. Boulder County’s Via mobility program provides door-to-door transit service for residents in Longmont and surrounding communities who cannot access fixed-route bus service. RTD routes B, J, and BOLT serve major corridors.

What You Need to Know

For questions about this program, contact Rachel Stein at Sustainability, Climate Action & Resilience: (303) 441-3429 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 Longmont office without an appointment.

The project includes improvements along South Boulder Road between Longmont and the intersection with Left Hand Canyon Drive. Construction is scheduled to begin in July 2026 with completion expected within 17 months.