Colorado Springs Embraces New Accessory Dwelling Unit Rules: What It Means for You 🏘️
Colorado Springs Embraces New Accessory Dwelling Unit Rules: What It Means for You 🏘️
Big news for homeowners and future residents in Colorado Springs! The city is preparing to adopt more flexible rules for accessory dwelling units (ADUs), thanks to a new state law aimed at making housing more accessible and versatile. Whether you're a homeowner looking to maximize your property's value or someone considering a move to Colorado Springs, these changes could be a game-changer.
What Are Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)?
ADUs are smaller, secondary living spaces built on the same property as a main home. They can be free-standing structures or attached additions designed to house more people. Think of them as a creative way to accommodate aging parents, young adults, or even long-term guests—all while boosting the housing supply in our beautiful city.
What's Changing?
Colorado lawmakers have paved the way for more widespread use of ADUs by passing a law that reduces restrictions in major cities, including Colorado Springs. Here’s how the new rules could impact you:
- Broader Permissibility: ADUs will be allowed in any neighborhood that permits single-family homes, increasing the options for more families to use their property creatively.
- Simplified Approval Process: The approval of ADU projects will be handled directly by city staff, eliminating the need for public hearings that could result in neighbor opposition. This means faster, smoother approvals for homeowners!
- Design and Parking Flexibility: Say goodbye to mandatory off-street parking requirements. The city will also limit overly restrictive design regulations, making it easier to customize your unit.
Join the Conversation!
Public feedback is essential, and the first meeting to discuss these updates is on November 20 at the National Cybersecurity Center. Colorado Springs residents have the chance to weigh in on design elements like size restrictions and bedroom limits, helping shape a more flexible and accommodating housing environment.
Why Now?
Housing is a critical issue in our community, and ADUs represent one of many potential solutions. Planning Supervisor Dan Sexton explained that while the city has already made strides, these updates will further support housing needs by creating a "more permissive environment." Planning Director Kevin Walker added, “This is not the answer, but it is an answer,” emphasizing that while ADUs won’t flood the market, they provide meaningful options for property owners willing to invest.
Potential New Restrictions
One proposed rule under consideration is preventing ADUs from being used as short-term rentals. This aligns with the city’s broader examination of rental policies, ensuring ADUs support long-term housing needs.
What This Means for You and Your Property
Whether you’re a current homeowner or planning to relocate to Colorado Springs, these changes present exciting opportunities to increase property value and create more flexible living arrangements. Building an ADU can offer a great way to support multi-generational living, earn rental income (within guidelines), or create a private space for loved ones.
Looking for Your Dream Home in Colorado Springs?
As a top-producing, approachable real estate agent, I’m here to guide you through these evolving changes and how they might benefit you. If you’re curious about how to leverage ADUs or want to explore all your housing options, let’s connect! 🏡✨
👉 Call or Text: 719-922-0102
👉 Email: [email protected]
👉 NicoleStromRealtor.com
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Thinking about making Colorado Springs your new home? Let’s talk about how these housing updates might impact your journey.
I'll be sharing an upcoming blog post on the average cost of adding an ADU to your existing property and what new builders in the Springs are currently doing to address this issue and by adding ADU units to their new single-family home products.
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About the Author
Nicole Strom
Nicole is a mom, grandma, a retired military spouse of over 25 years, as well as a full time Real Estate Professional serving her clients in and around Colorado Springs.
You need a REALTOR® with vast experience and knowledge of our specific market. You need a REALTOR® that genuinely cares about you and puts your needs first. You need a REALTOR® you can trust. Nicole is that REALTOR®.
