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ADU / Backyard Cottage in Denver
Licensed adu / backyard cottage services for Denver and Denver County. Build an income-producing unit in your backyard.
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ADU / Backyard Cottage Services in Denver, Colorado
Autotelic provides professional adu / backyard cottage services throughout Denver and the surrounding Denver County area. Accessory dwelling unit construction across the Denver metro — detached new builds, garage conversions, and basement conversions compliant with Colorado HB 24-1152. One veteran-owned design-build team runs the full Denver sequence under a single contract: zoning verification and concept design, municipal zoning and building permit reviews, then construction and inspections through certificate of occupancy. Whether you're in Denver (Colorado's capital city) or nearby communities, our team delivers quality workmanship backed by Colorado licensing and full insurance coverage.
Permits & Licensing
Permits in Denver
Building permits in Denver are issued by Community Planning and Development, and contractor licensing here is municipal — a Denver-licensed contractor pulls Denver permits. We handle permit applications and inspections as part of every project. Authority: City and County of Denver — Community Planning and Development.
Permit Thresholds
Denver permit thresholds
- Code reference
- Drywall patching or replacement of one sheet no larger than 4 ft by 8 ft.
- Code/municipal-code references
- Requirements are administered under the Denver Building and Fire Code (2025 edition, effective December 31, 2025, incorporating 2024 I-Codes with local amendments; prior editions referenced similar administrative provisions).
- Code reference
- Exemptions and permit triggers align with administrative sections (e.g., analogous to IBC/IRC Section 105 or city-specific Admin provisions such as those referenced in policy documents like ADMIN 131/138).Section 105
- Code reference
- Demolition has a specific reference (Denver Commercial Building Code Section 130.3 for exempted work).Section 130.3
- There is a tiered schedule (e.g., $1–$500
- $20 permit fee; higher tiers add per-$1,000 amounts with 50% plan review on many ranges); see the full table in the Development Fees policy for exact tiers.
Codes are amended regularly — verify current requirements with City and County of Denver — Community Planning and Development.
Energy Code
Denver energy code quick facts
- Code reference
- 2021 IECC (with local Denver amendments) as adopted in the 2025 Denver Building and Fire Codes / Denver Energy Code (effective December 31, 2025); Denver Green Code (DGC) provisions may also apply to certain commercial/multifamily projects.
- Code reference
- Denver (Climate Zone 5B) follows the 2021 IECC base with amendments incorporated into the Denver Energy Code (DEC; residential provisions start around p.
- Code reference
- 312 of the code document).
- Code reference
- The 2025 adoption explicitly incorporates the 2021 IECC for energy (distinct from the 2024 I-codes used for other building/fire provisions).
- Code reference
- Chapter 5 [RE] / [CE] addresses additions, alterations, repairs, and changes of occupancy to existing buildings.
- Code reference
- The DGC (2022, effective ~May 2023) is largely voluntary but includes mandatory elements for some larger buildings alongside Energize Denver performance standards (primarily for existing large buildings).
- Code reference
- Key prescriptive requirements relevant to remodels/additions (drawn from 2021 IECC Table R402.1.3 / equivalent, applicable via Chapter 5 for new envelope work unless otherwise exempted; Denver-specific checklist references confirm use of these tables or U-factor alternatives):
- Ceiling/attic insulation
- Minimum R-60 (Climate Zone 5).
Codes are amended regularly — verify current requirements with City and County of Denver — Community Planning and Development.
Zoning & Dimensional Standards
Setback & dimensional standards in Denver
Zone-district dimensional standards for Denver, quoted verbatim from the Denver Zoning Code. Knowing your lot's district — and its setbacks, height, and coverage limits — is where every feasibility conversation starts.
E-CC-3setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 0' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 0' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 0' |
Denver Zoning Code E-CC-3 setback standards (4.3, p.37) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
E-MS-2setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 7.5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5' |
Denver Zoning Code E-MS-2 setback standards (4.3, p.33) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
E-MS-3setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 7.5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5' |
Denver Zoning Code E-MS-3 setback standards (4.3, p.33) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
E-MS-5setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 7.5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5' |
Denver Zoning Code E-MS-5 setback standards (4.3, p.33) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
E-MU-2.5setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 20' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 7.5' |
| Rear Setback where no alley (min) | 20' |
| Rear Setback where alley abuts (min) | 12' |
| Building Coverage (max) | 45% |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 6,000 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 50' |
| Height in Feet (max) | 30'/30' |
| Height in Stories (max) | 2.5/2.5 |
| Bulk Plane | 10'/10' |
Denver Zoning Code E-MU-2.5 setback standards (4.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
E-MX-2setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 7.5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5' |
Denver Zoning Code E-MX-2 setback standards (4.3, p.33) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
E-MX-2Asetback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 7.5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5' |
Denver Zoning Code E-MX-2A setback standards (4.3, p.33) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
E-MX-3setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 7.5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5' |
Denver Zoning Code E-MX-3 setback standards (4.3, p.33) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
E-MX-3Asetback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 7.5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5' |
Denver Zoning Code E-MX-3A setback standards (4.3, p.33) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
E-MX-Esetback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 40% E-MS: 60% |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 25% |
Denver Zoning Code E-MX-E setback standards (4.3, p.39) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
E-RH-2.5setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 20' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 7.5' |
| Rear Setback where no alley (min) | 20' |
| Rear Setback where alley abuts (min) | 12' |
| Building Coverage (max) | 45% |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 6,000 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 50' |
| Height in Feet (max) | 30'/30' |
| Height in Stories (max) | 2.5/2.5 |
| Bulk Plane | 10'/10' |
Denver Zoning Code E-RH-2.5 setback standards (4.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
E-RX-3setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 7.5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5' |
Denver Zoning Code E-RX-3 setback standards (4.3, p.33) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
E-RX-5setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 7.5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5' |
Denver Zoning Code E-RX-5 setback standards (4.3, p.33) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
E-SU-Asetback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 20' |
| Rear Setback where no alley (min) | 12' 12' 20' 20' 20' |
| Rear Setback where alley abuts (min) | 3' 5' 5' 7.5' 3' 3' min one side/ 10' min com- bined 5' 10' |
| Building Coverage (max) | 45% |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 3,000 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 25' |
| Height in Feet (max) | 30'/17' |
| Height in Stories (max) | 2.5/1 |
| Bulk Plane | 17'/10' |
Denver Zoning Code E-SU-A setback standards (4.3, p.21) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
E-SU-Bsetback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 20' |
| Rear Setback where no alley (min) | 12' 12' 20' 20' 20' |
| Rear Setback where alley abuts (min) | 3' 5' 5' 7.5' 3' 3' min one side/ 10' min com- bined 5' 10' |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 4,500 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 35' |
| Height in Feet (max) | 30'/17' |
| Height in Stories (max) | 2.5/1 |
| Bulk Plane | 17'/10' |
Denver Zoning Code E-SU-B setback standards (4.3, p.21) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
E-SU-Dsetback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 20' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5' |
| Rear Setback where no alley (min) | 20' |
| Rear Setback where alley abuts (min) | 12' |
| Building Coverage (max) | 45% |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 6,000 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 50' |
| Height in Feet (max) | 30'/30' |
| Height in Stories (max) | 2.5/2.5 |
| Bulk Plane | 10'/10' |
Denver Zoning Code E-SU-D setback standards (4.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
E-SU-Gsetback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 20' |
| Rear Setback where no alley (min) | 12' 12' 20' 20' 20' |
| Rear Setback where alley abuts (min) | 3' 5' 5' 7.5' 3' 3' min one side/ 10' min com- bined 5' 10' |
| Building Coverage (max) | 45% |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 9,000 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 62.5' |
| Height in Feet (max) | 30'/30' |
| Height in Stories (max) | 2.5/2.5 |
| Bulk Plane | 10'/10' |
Denver Zoning Code E-SU-G setback standards (4.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
E-TU-Bsetback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 20' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 3' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 3' |
| Rear Setback where no alley (min) | 12' 12' 20' 20' 20' |
| Rear Setback where alley abuts (min) | 3' 5' 5' 7.5' 3' 3' min one side/ 10' min com- bined 5' 10' |
| Building Coverage (max) | 45% |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 4,500 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 35' |
| Height in Feet (max) | 30'/17' |
| Height in Stories (max) | 2.5/1 |
| Bulk Plane | 17'/10' |
Denver Zoning Code E-TU-B setback standards (4.3, p.21) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
E-TU-Csetback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 20' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 3' min one side/ 10' min combined |
| Rear Setback where no alley (min) | 12' 12' 20' 20' 20' |
| Rear Setback where alley abuts (min) | 3' 5' 5' 7.5' 3' 3' min one side/ 10' min com- bined 5' 10' |
| Building Coverage (max) | 45% |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 5,500 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 50' |
| Height in Feet (max) | 30'/17' |
| Height in Stories (max) | 2.5/1 |
| Bulk Plane | 17'/10' |
Denver Zoning Code E-TU-C setback standards (4.3, p.21) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
G-MS-3setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 7.5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5' |
Denver Zoning Code G-MS-3 setback standards (6.3, p.27) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
G-MS-5setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 7.5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5' |
Denver Zoning Code G-MS-5 setback standards (6.3, p.27) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
G-MU-12setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 7.5' |
| Rear Setback where no alley (min) | 20' |
| Rear Setback where alley abuts (min) | 10' |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 6,000 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 50' |
Denver Zoning Code G-MU-12 setback standards (6.3, p.29) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
G-MU-20setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 7.5' |
| Rear Setback where no alley (min) | 20' |
| Rear Setback where alley abuts (min) | 10' |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 6,000 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 50' |
Denver Zoning Code G-MU-20 setback standards (6.3, p.29) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
G-MU-3setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 20' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 3' min one side/10' min combined |
| Rear Setback where no alley (min) | 20' |
| Rear Setback where alley abuts (min) | 12' |
| Building Coverage (max) | 45% |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 3,000 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 25' |
Denver Zoning Code G-MU-3 setback standards (6.3, p.17) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
G-MU-5setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 20' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5' |
| Rear Setback where no alley (min) | 20' |
| Rear Setback where alley abuts (min) | 12' |
| Building Coverage (max) | 45% |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 3,000 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 25' |
Denver Zoning Code G-MU-5 setback standards (6.3, p.17) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
G-MU-8setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 20' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 7.5' |
| Rear Setback where no alley (min) | 20' |
| Rear Setback where alley abuts (min) | 12' |
| Building Coverage (max) | 40% |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 3,000 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 25' |
Denver Zoning Code G-MU-8 setback standards (6.3, p.17) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
G-MX-3setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 7.5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5' |
Denver Zoning Code G-MX-3 setback standards (6.3, p.27) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
G-RH-3setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 20' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 15' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 3' |
| Rear Setback where no alley (min) | 20' |
| Rear Setback where alley abuts (min) | 12' |
| Building Coverage (max) | 60% |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 3,000 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 25' |
| Bulk Plane | 12' |
Denver Zoning Code G-RH-3 setback standards (6.3, p.17) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
G-RO-3setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 20' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 3' min one side/10' min combined |
| Rear Setback where no alley (min) | 20' |
| Rear Setback where alley abuts (min) | 12' |
| Building Coverage (max) | 45% |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 3,000 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 25' |
Denver Zoning Code G-RO-3 setback standards (6.3, p.17) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
G-RO-5setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 20' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5' |
| Rear Setback where no alley (min) | 20' |
| Rear Setback where alley abuts (min) | 12' |
| Building Coverage (max) | 45% |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 3,000 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 25' |
Denver Zoning Code G-RO-5 setback standards (6.3, p.17) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
G-RX-3setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 7.5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5' |
Denver Zoning Code G-RX-3 setback standards (6.3, p.27) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
G-RX-5setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 7.5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5' |
Denver Zoning Code G-RX-5 setback standards (6.3, p.27) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
S-CC-3setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 0' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 0' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 0' |
Denver Zoning Code S-CC-3 setback standards (3.3, p.29) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
S-CC-5setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 0' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 0' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5' |
Denver Zoning Code S-CC-5 setback standards (3.3, p.33) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
S-MS-3setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 0' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 0' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 0' |
Denver Zoning Code S-MS-3 setback standards (3.3, p.29) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
S-MU-3setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 13.1.5.9 or 20' , whichever |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5' |
| Rear Setback where no alley (min) | 20' |
| Rear Setback where alley abuts (min) | 12' |
| Building Coverage (max) | 50% |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 4,500 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 37.5' |
| Height in Feet (max) | 32'/32' |
| Height in Stories (max) | 3/3 |
Denver Zoning Code S-MU-3 setback standards (3.3, p.21) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
S-MX-12setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 20' 20'/25' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 35'/40' |
Denver Zoning Code S-MX-12 setback standards (3.3, p.39) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
S-MX-12Asetback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 20' 20'/25' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 35'/40' |
Denver Zoning Code S-MX-12A setback standards (3.3, p.39) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
S-MX-2setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 0' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 0' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 0' |
Denver Zoning Code S-MX-2 setback standards (3.3, p.29) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
S-MX-2Asetback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 40% Residential Only Buildings: 30% |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 25% |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 0' |
Denver Zoning Code S-MX-2A setback standards (3.3, p.37) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
S-MX-3setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 0' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 0' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 0' |
Denver Zoning Code S-MX-3 setback standards (3.3, p.31) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
S-MX-3Asetback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 15' |
Denver Zoning Code S-MX-3A setback standards (3.3, p.39) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
S-MX-5setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 20' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 35'/40' |
Denver Zoning Code S-MX-5 setback standards (3.3, p.39) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
S-MX-5Asetback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 20' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 35'/40' |
Denver Zoning Code S-MX-5A setback standards (3.3, p.39) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
S-MX-8Asetback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 20' |
Denver Zoning Code S-MX-8A setback standards (3.3, p.39) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
S-RH-2.5setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5' |
| Rear Setback where no alley (min) | 20' |
| Rear Setback where alley abuts (min) | 12' |
| Building Coverage (max) | 50% |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 4,500 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 37.5' |
| Height in Feet (max) | 30'/30' |
| Height in Stories (max) | 2.5/2.5 |
| Bulk Plane | 10'/10' |
Denver Zoning Code S-RH-2.5 setback standards (3.3, p.21) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
S-SU-Asetback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 3' 5' |
| Rear Setback where alley abuts (min) | 12' |
| Building Coverage (max) | 50% |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 3,000 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 25' |
| Height in Feet (max) | 30'/30' |
| Height in Stories (max) | 2.5/2.5 |
| Bulk Plane | 10'/10' |
Denver Zoning Code S-SU-A setback standards (3.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
S-SU-FAsetback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' 5'/15' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5'/15' |
| Rear Setback where alley abuts (min) | 12' |
| Building Coverage (max) | 50% |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 8,500 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 62.5' |
| Height in Feet (max) | 30'/30' |
| Height in Stories (max) | 2.5/2.5 |
| Bulk Plane | 10' |
Denver Zoning Code S-SU-FA setback standards (3.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
S-SU-Isetback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Side Street Setback (min) | 5' |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 12,000 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 62.5' |
| Height in Feet (max) | 30'/30' |
| Height in Stories (max) | 3/3 |
| Bulk Plane | 10'/10' 10'/10' |
Denver Zoning Code S-SU-I setback standards (3.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
U-MS-2setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 7.5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5' |
Denver Zoning Code U-MS-2 setback standards (5.3, p.27) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
U-MS-3setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 7.5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5' |
Denver Zoning Code U-MS-3 setback standards (5.3, p.27) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
U-MS-5setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 7.5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5' |
Denver Zoning Code U-MS-5 setback standards (5.3, p.27) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
U-MX-2setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 7.5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5' |
Denver Zoning Code U-MX-2 setback standards (5.3, p.27) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
U-MX-3setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 7.5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5' |
Denver Zoning Code U-MX-3 setback standards (5.3, p.27) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
U-RH-2.5setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 7.5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 10' |
| Rear Setback where no alley (min) | 20' |
| Rear Setback where alley abuts (min) | 12' |
| Building Coverage (max) | 40% |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 3,000 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 25' |
| Height in Feet (max) | 30'/17' |
| Height in Stories (max) | 2.5/1 |
| Bulk Plane | 17'/10' |
Denver Zoning Code U-RH-2.5 setback standards (5.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
U-RH-3Asetback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 7.5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 10' |
| Rear Setback where no alley (min) | 20' |
| Rear Setback where alley abuts (min) | 12' |
| Building Coverage (max) | 40% |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 3,000 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 25' |
| Height in Feet (max) | 30'/17' |
| Height in Stories (max) | 2.5/1 |
| Bulk Plane | 17'/10' |
Denver Zoning Code U-RH-3A setback standards (5.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
U-RX-3setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 7.5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5' |
Denver Zoning Code U-RX-3 setback standards (5.3, p.27) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
U-RX-5setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 7.5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5' |
Denver Zoning Code U-RX-5 setback standards (5.3, p.27) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
U-SU-Asetback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 3' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 3' |
| Rear Setback where no alley (min) | 20' |
| Rear Setback where alley abuts (min) | 12' |
| Building Coverage (max) | 60% |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 3,000 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 25' |
| Height in Feet (max) | 30'/17' |
| Height in Stories (max) | 2.5/1 |
| Bulk Plane | 17'/10' |
Denver Zoning Code U-SU-A setback standards (5.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
U-SU-A2setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 3' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 3' |
| Rear Setback where no alley (min) | 20' |
| Rear Setback where alley abuts (min) | 12' |
| Building Coverage (max) | 60% |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 3,000 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 25' |
| Height in Feet (max) | 30'/17' |
| Height in Stories (max) | 2.5/1 |
| Bulk Plane | 17'/10' |
Denver Zoning Code U-SU-A2 setback standards (5.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
U-SU-Bsetback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 4,500 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 35' |
| Height in Feet (max) | 30'/17' |
| Height in Stories (max) | 2.5/1 |
| Bulk Plane | 17'/10' |
Denver Zoning Code U-SU-B setback standards (5.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
U-SU-B2setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 3' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 3' |
| Rear Setback where no alley (min) | 20' |
| Rear Setback where alley abuts (min) | 12' |
| Building Coverage (max) | 60% |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 4,500 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 35' |
| Height in Feet (max) | 30'/17' |
| Height in Stories (max) | 2.5/1 |
| Bulk Plane | 17'/10' |
Denver Zoning Code U-SU-B2 setback standards (5.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
U-SU-Csetback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 3' min one 10' min combined |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 5,500 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 50' |
| Height in Feet (max) | 30'/17' |
| Height in Stories (max) | 2.5/1 |
| Bulk Plane | 17'/10' |
Denver Zoning Code U-SU-C setback standards (5.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
U-SU-C2setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 3' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 3' min one 10' min combined |
| Rear Setback where no alley (min) | 20' |
| Rear Setback where alley abuts (min) | 12' |
| Building Coverage (max) | 60% |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 5,500 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 50' |
| Height in Feet (max) | 30'/17' |
| Height in Stories (max) | 2.5/1 |
| Bulk Plane | 17'/10' |
Denver Zoning Code U-SU-C2 setback standards (5.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
U-SU-Esetback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 5' |
| Rear Setback where no alley (min) | 20' |
| Rear Setback where alley abuts (min) | 12' |
| Building Coverage (max) | 45% |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 7,000 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 50' |
| Height in Feet (max) | 30'/17' |
| Height in Stories (max) | 2.5/1 |
| Bulk Plane | 17'/10' |
Denver Zoning Code U-SU-E setback standards (5.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
U-SU-Hsetback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5' |
| Rear Setback where no alley (min) | 20' |
| Rear Setback where alley abuts (min) | 12' |
| Building Coverage (max) | 45% |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 10,000 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 75' |
| Height in Feet (max) | 30'/17' |
| Height in Stories (max) | 3/1 |
| Bulk Plane | 17'/10' |
Denver Zoning Code U-SU-H setback standards (5.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
U-TU-Bsetback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 3' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 3' |
| Rear Setback where no alley (min) | 20' |
| Rear Setback where alley abuts (min) | 12' |
| Building Coverage (max) | 60% |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 3,000 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 25' |
| Height in Feet (max) | 30'/17' |
| Height in Stories (max) | 2.5/1 |
| Bulk Plane | 17'/10' |
Denver Zoning Code U-TU-B setback standards (5.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
U-TU-B2setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 3' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 3' |
| Rear Setback where no alley (min) | 20' |
| Rear Setback where alley abuts (min) | 12' |
| Building Coverage (max) | 60% |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 3,000 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 25' |
| Height in Feet (max) | 30'/17' |
| Height in Stories (max) | 2.5/1 |
| Bulk Plane | 17'/10' |
Denver Zoning Code U-TU-B2 setback standards (5.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
U-TU-Csetback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Street Setback (min) | 10' |
| Side Street Setback (min) | 5' |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 10' |
| Rear Setback where no alley (min) | 20' |
| Rear Setback where alley abuts (min) | 12' |
| Building Coverage (max) | 40% |
| Zone Lot Area (min) | 4,500 sf |
| Zone Lot Width (min) | 35' |
| Height in Feet (max) | 30'/17' |
| Height in Stories (max) | 2.5/1 |
| Bulk Plane | 17'/10' |
Denver Zoning Code U-TU-C setback standards (5.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code
Verify current requirements with the jurisdiction — informational reference only. Standards vary by overlay, lot, and use; we confirm the exact rules for your property during feasibility.
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What this covers
Detached or attached accessory dwelling on a Denver lot: foundation or module, envelope, and utility tie-in. Height and massing follow Denver bulk-plane and ADU rules for the zone; confirm with CPD before drawings freeze.
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How the work is coordinated
A municipally licensed Denver general contractor coordinates licensed specialty trades for electrical and plumbing. Denver-metro work is permitted locally. Colorado has no statewide general-contractor license. Cities and counties license general contractors. DORA licenses electrical and plumbing (and similar regulated trades), not general contractors. Autotelic is a municipally licensed Denver general contractor that coordinates licensed specialty trades. Denver building permits run through Community Planning and Development (CPD). Costs are project-specific; no dollar figures.
FAQ
Common questions
Who handles the adu / backyard cottage permits and licensing?
A municipally licensed Denver general contractor coordinates licensed specialty trades. Colorado has no statewide general-contractor license; cities and counties license general contractors. DORA licenses electrical and plumbing, not general contractors.
What is typically in scope for adu / backyard cottage in Denver?
Detached or attached accessory dwelling on a Denver lot: foundation or module, envelope, and utility tie-in.
When do you need drawings or a permit?
Anything that changes structure, occupancy, or regulated electrical or plumbing usually needs a local permit. Denver building permits are reviewed by Community Planning and Development. Confirm the exact trigger with CPD for the address.
Service Area
Serving Denver and Denver County
We serve Denver, CO and all surrounding Denver metro communities. Our team is based in Denver and operates throughout the Front Range, from Castle Rock to Longmont and everywhere in between. Contact us for a free estimate on your Denver project.
FAQ
Common questions
Is an ADU allowed on my lot?
It depends on your city’s zoning — lot size, setbacks, and parking rules vary across the metro. We run the zoning check as the first step and tell you what your lot supports before you spend money on design.
Do you handle ADU permits and inspections?
Yes — ADU permitting is municipal, and we manage zoning review, permit application, and every inspection through certificate of occupancy.
Detached, attached, or garage conversion — which is right?
Each has different zoning, cost, and site implications. We design all three and recommend based on your lot, budget, and how you plan to use the unit.
What does an ADU cost?
Getting a real answer costs less than most people expect: an ADU feasibility consultation is $350, and the full ADU feasibility package — zoning check, site analysis, and concept direction — is $950, both listed at fixed prices on our booking page. Construction cost depends on the path: garage and basement conversions reuse existing structure, while a detached backyard cottage is new construction from the foundation up. After feasibility we quote the build itself as a fixed-price proposal, so you know the number before work starts.
How long does an ADU project take?
Three phases run in sequence: design (site measure, concept, construction documents), permitting (zoning and building review, which move on the municipality’s calendar), then construction. Conversions generally move faster than detached new builds because the shell and foundation already exist. We lay out the phase-by-phase schedule in your proposal, and you track progress on our operations platform once work starts.
How small a lot can support an ADU?
Smaller than most people assume — many Front Range single-unit lots that owners write off can carry a detached unit, and each city sets its own minimum lot size, setbacks, and building coverage. Whether your district’s standards leave room for a backyard cottage — or point you toward a garage or basement conversion instead — is exactly what the feasibility check answers for your address.
What is the ADU permit process?
Two municipal reviews run in order: a zoning review confirming the unit fits your district’s standards, then a building permit review of the construction documents, with inspections during the build and a certificate of occupancy at the end. Colorado HB 24-1152 now requires most Front Range municipalities to allow ADUs on single-unit lots, and we confirm how your city implements it as the first step of feasibility.
How It Runs
01
Survey
02
Design
03
Build
04
Verify
DESIGN SERVICES
Discovery & Site Analysis
Needs + preference programming, site survey, as-built documentation, feasibility.
We walk, measure, and photograph your property — existing conditions, utilities, structure, and constraints. You get the as-built documentation and feasibility read that every later decision rests on.
Learn more →Concept Design & Space Planning
Schematic design, floor plan studies, layout options.
Your scope becomes schematic floor plans you can compare side by side — circulation, daylight, adjacencies, and what each option does to the budget. Layout decisions happen on paper, where changes are cheap.
Learn more →Architectural Design & 3D Renderings
Design development, materials + finishes, photorealistic visualization.
The chosen concept resolves into materials, finishes, fixtures, and lighting — with the automation layer drawn in. Photorealistic renderings let you walk the space and adjust before anything is priced.
Learn more →Construction Documents & Permitting
Full CD sets, structural + MEP engineering coordination, permit-ready drawings.
Approved designs become coordinated architectural, structural, and MEP sheets — the set your jurisdiction permits from and trades build from. We submit, track, and answer review comments.
Learn more →CONSTRUCTION
New Construction & Custom Homes
Ground-up homes and light commercial, dirt to keys.
Ground-up residential and light commercial builds — foundations through finishes, including modular and steel construction. One accountable builder from dirt to keys.
Learn more →Remodels & Additions
Kitchens, baths, basements, pop-tops, whole-home.
Kitchens, baths, basements, pop-tops, and whole-home renovations that respect the house you already have. We handle structure, permits, and the dust.
Learn more →Commercial Tenant Finish & Build-Outs
Shells to working spaces — retail, office, restaurant, school.
Raw shells become working spaces — showrooms, offices, restaurants, schools. Dealer-spec finishes, code compliance, and opening dates held.
Learn more →ADUs & Modular Construction
Backyard cottages, garage conversions, factory-built homes.
Backyard cottages, garage conversions, and factory-built homes — zoning, design, permits, and set. Denver’s ADU rules are a specialty, not a surprise.
Learn more →Outdoor Living & Patio Structures
Decks, pergolas, and dining patios built for Colorado weather.
Decks, pergolas, and dining patios engineered for Colorado sun, snow, and hail — structure, shade, and drainage done right the first time.
Learn more →TECHNOLOGY
Smart Home Automation
Lighting, shades, climate, audio, security — one interface.
Whole-home control of lighting, shades, climate, audio, and security from a single interface — Crestron, Lutron, Savant, and Control4 designed in, not bolted on.
Learn more →A/V Systems
Theaters, distributed audio, video walls, commercial sound.
Theaters, distributed audio, video walls, and commercial sound — designed, installed, and tuned by the same team for over 20 years.
Learn more →Control Systems
Custom programming — scenes and schedules that fit the space.
Every subsystem brought into one elegant interface — custom programming for homes and venues, with scenes and schedules that match how the space is actually used.
Learn more →Networking & Edge Compute
Enterprise Wi-Fi, structured cabling, racks, on-prem compute.
Enterprise-grade Wi-Fi, structured cabling, racks, and on-premise compute — the backbone that makes everything else reliable, including our own Barbot platform.
Learn more →Solar & Energy Storage
Solar arrays, Tesla Powerwall, EV charging — certified install.
Solar arrays, Tesla Powerwall, and EV charging designed and installed by a Tesla Energy Certified team — roof, electrical, and app in one scope.
Learn more →TRUSTED TO BUILD FOR
- Punch Bowl SocialFirst four locations
- Spectrum RetirementSenior living communities
- Denver HighlandsFirst modular custom home
Let's design your perfect ADU / Backyard Cottage together
Get a personalized estimate in about 2 minutes — no pressure, no obligation.
How This Works (2 minutes)
- 1Tell us about your project (30 seconds)
- 2Answer a few quick questions for an accurate estimate (60 seconds)
- 3Get your personalized estimate instantly (30 seconds)
No pressure. No obligation. No spam calls. If we're not the right fit, we'll tell you — and even recommend someone who is.
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