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Zoning Guide

ADU Rules in Colorado Springs, Colorado

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ADU Rules in Colorado Springs, Colorado

Colorado Springs is the second-largest city in Colorado, located at the base of Pikes Peak. The city permits ADUs in residential zones and has been working to simplify the process to address housing needs. Wildfire risk affects construction requirements in many neighborhoods.

Permitted ADU Types

  • Detached ADU: A standalone structure on the lot
  • Attached ADU: An addition to the primary home with own entrance
  • Garage Conversion: Converting existing garage to dwelling unit

Size Limits

ADU Type Maximum Size
Detached ADU 1,000 sq ft or 50% of primary dwelling
Attached ADU 50% of primary dwelling floor area
Garage Conversion Existing footprint

Setbacks

  • Front: Must meet base zone standard
  • Side: 5 feet minimum
  • Rear: 5–10 feet minimum depending on zone

Height

  • Detached ADU: Maximum 18–24 feet depending on zone
  • Cannot exceed primary dwelling height

Wildfire / WUI Requirements

Colorado Springs borders extensive Wildland-Urban Interface areas, particularly to the west toward Pikes Peak. ADUs in WUI zones must:

  • Use Class A fire-rated roofing
  • Use fire-resistant siding materials (no wood lap siding)
  • Maintain minimum 30-foot defensible space around structure
  • Comply with the International Wildland-Urban Interface Code

High Altitude Construction

Colorado Springs sits at 6,035 feet elevation:

  • Snow load design required
  • Frost depth requirements apply (36+ inches)
  • High UV exposure accelerates material degradation

Owner Occupancy

Colorado Springs may require owner occupancy depending on the specific zone. Contact Planning to verify current requirements.

Parking

One additional off-street parking space required per ADU.

Permit Process

  1. Check WUI zone: Verify wildfire zone at city GIS
  2. Verify zoning: Contact Colorado Springs Planning
  3. Submit plans: Architectural and site plans including fire-resistant materials list if WUI
  4. Review: Zoning and fire code review
  5. Building permit: Issued after approval
  6. Inspections: All required phases
  7. Certificate of Occupancy: Required before occupancy

Contact

Colorado Springs Planning & Community Development 30 S. Nevada Ave, Suite 301, Colorado Springs, CO 80903 Phone: (719) 385-5905 Website: coloradosprings.gov/planning

Disclaimer: Verify current requirements with the Colorado Springs Planning Department. WUI fire regulations are critical in many neighborhoods.

More about Colorado Springs Zoning

Building Permits — Cost & TimelineSetbacks & Height Limits

Sources

  1. Colorado Springs City Code — Zoning Regulations·library.municode.com·Accessed 2026-04-07·Direct link
  2. Colorado Springs Planning & Community Development·coloradosprings.gov·Accessed 2026-04-07·Direct link

FAQ

Are ADUs allowed in Colorado Springs, Colorado?
Yes. Colorado Springs permits accessory dwelling units in residential zones. The city has been expanding ADU options to address housing affordability.
What is the maximum ADU size in Colorado Springs?
Detached ADUs in Colorado Springs are generally limited to 1,000 square feet or 50% of the primary dwelling's floor area, whichever is less.
Are there wildfire considerations for ADUs near Pikes Peak?
Yes. Many Colorado Springs neighborhoods are in the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI). ADUs in WUI zones must use fire-resistant construction materials and maintain defensible space.