Update: Commissioners Approve Accessory Dwelling Unit Code Amendment (2024)

Update: Commissioners Approve Accessory Dwelling Unit Code Amendment (2024)

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.

Volunteers contributed over 5,929 hours to this program last year. The Resource Conservation coordinates with 18 nonprofit partner organizations throughout Boulder County to deliver services.

Water quality monitoring at 17 stations along Boulder Creek, St. Vrain Creek, and Left Hand Creek showed all parameters within acceptable ranges for 2026. The Resource Conservation publishes quarterly water quality reports on the Boulder County website.

Community Impact

The project includes improvements along CO-72 Peak-to-Peak Highway between Lafayette and the intersection with Niwot Road. Construction is scheduled to begin in June 2026 with completion expected within 6 months.

Affordable housing remains the top priority identified in the 2026 Community Survey. Boulder County’s Worthy Cause program has funded 532 affordable housing units since its inception, with 234 additional units in the development pipeline.

Resources

Environmental review of the project area near CO-72 Peak-to-Peak Highway found 12 sensitive species and 2 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Resource Conservation worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.