ADU stands for accessory dwelling unit. They’re also known as carriage houses, granny flats,
casitas or mother-in-law suites.
[Source Council District 6 Newsletter]
Council will vote June 5 on final passage of the ADUs in Denver ordinance that has been developed over the past year-plus. The new guidelines aim to
(1) make it easier for homeowners to add Accessory Dwelling Units to their property and
(2) set guidelines so ADUs fit well into a variety of neighborhood contexts.
The bill does not rezone any property, but does provide direction for those wanting to expand housing on their lots. If you live in an area already rezoned to allow ADUs, all you need to do is hire an architect/builder and file your plans. If your neighborhood does not yet permit ADUs as a use-by-right, you’ll need to come up with fees of about $1,000 and go through a rezoning process that takes about a year.