What's Required in Colorado Springs
- Building permit required for all secondary dwelling units.
- Must have independent cooking, sleeping, and sanitation facilities.
- Requires professional architectural plans including foundation.
- Must meet lot coverage and setback rules for the zoning district.
- Owner-occupancy of the property is a mandatory requirement.
- Requires a separate address designation for the second unit.
How Much Does an ADU Permit Cost in Colorado Springs?
Budget $1,000–$3,500 for the Colorado Springs permit itself (valuation-based), issued by the Pikes Peak Regional Building Department — but treat that as the entry fee, not the total. ADUs are full dwelling units, so the permit stack usually includes building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical trade permits, plus plan review. One local note: includes building, zoning, and utility capacity fees. Get an itemized fee estimate from the department before finalizing your budget; the spread between a simple conversion and a new detached build is wide.
ADU Size Limits and Zoning Rules in Colorado Springs
Before drawing plans, check the two gates that sink most ADU projects: size and zoning. Size ceilings vary by lot and ADU type (attached, detached, or conversion), so confirm your specific configuration. Other recorded conditions: owner-occupancy of the property is a mandatory requirement. Setbacks, height limits, and utility connections layer on top of those rules. The Pikes Peak Regional Building Department can confirm what your specific lot allows — worth doing before you pay for architectural drawings rather than after.
How to Get a ADU Permit in Colorado Springs
Step 1: Zoning Audit
Confirm an ADU is allowed on your lot via the Planning dept.
Step 2: Design Documents
Prepare detailed site plans and architectural drawings.
Step 3: Submit Portal
Apply for a New Accessory Structure permit online via PPRBD.
Step 4: Multi-Agency Review
Checked by Building, Zoning, and Fire departments.
Step 5: Inspections
Full series from footings to final occupancy sign-off.