A number of residents have contacted the City with an interest in changing City codes and policies to allow Accessory Dwelling Units (“ADUs”). An ADU is a smaller, independent residential dwelling unit located on the same property as a detached single-unit home. ADUs may be converted portions of existing homes or an addition to an existing home (attached ADUs); or an ADU can be new or converted stand-alone accessory structures (detached ADUs).

Please give us your input on this important policy consideration by taking a brief survey at https://bit.ly/3Tvf47U

ADUs go by many names and are sometimes called granny flats, mother-in-law suites, casitas, or carriage houses. As an independent dwelling unit, an ADU has its own living, sleeping, cooking, and bathroom facilities. As an accessory dwelling unit, an ADU cannot be sold separately from the primary house on the property.

Some nearby communities that allow ADUs include Arvada, Aurora, Brighton, Broomfield, Denver, Erie, Lafayette, Lakewood, Longmont, Northglenn, Thornton, and Wheat Ridge. Typically, municipalities enact limitations on ADUs such as allowed size, placement on the lot, owner residency requirements, off-street parking and similar provisions to minimize impacts. Westminster does not currently allow ADUs but would like your input to help inform this policy matter.

Learn more about ADUs:
AARP ADU guide
APA ADU guide