ADUs are allowed in RifleTypes:DetachedInternal
Types:DetachedInternal
Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Rules for Rifle, CO
Is your property eligible for an ADU?
# of Parcels
3,870
Zoning districts
27
Zoning Districts:
3,871 parcels · 27 districts
LDR
39%(1,501)
MDR
14%(524)
MDRPUD
12%(451)
MDRX
8%(299)
Other
28%(1,096)
ADU Rules
What can you build in Rifle, CO?
Rifle, CO follows state and local rules for Accessory Dwelling Units. Here is a concise overview of the local rules.
Eligibility
- –Internal / Attached ADU: By Right
- –Detached ADU: By Right
Interior / Attached ADU Size Limits
- –Maximum size of 850 sq ft
- –Maximum size of 50% of the principal dwelling’s livable area (excluding garage) where residential
Detached ADU Size Limits
- –Maximum size of 850 sq ft for a detached ADU
- –In residential settings, the detached ADU is also limited to 50% of the principal dwelling's livable area (excluding garage)
Max Units
- –1 ADU per residential lot (LDR/MDR/MDR‑X; incl. res‑only lots in commercial zones)
Parking
- –1 space per bedroom for each ADU; no maximum. Exceptions: must use the same driveway/curb cut as the principal structure unless alley access is approved; in commercial/LI districts, ADU may share parking with the principal commercial use if sufficient spaces are provided; off-site parking cannot satisfy residential/ADU parking; spaces generally must be on the same lot.
ADU State Law
What can you build in Colorado?
- –ADUs must be approved based on objective standards; no discretionary hearings allowed.
- –Historic properties: Local historic review may still apply in designated historic districts.
- –Exempt parcels: ADUs are not required to be allowed on parcels without adequate water/sewer, in floodways, or on certain historic properties.
- –HOAs cannot prohibit ADUs: HOA rules that conflict with the state ADU law are void.
- –Parking exceptions exist: In rare cases, one parking space may be required if there is no existing off-street parking and on-street parking is prohibited.
- –Local rules still matter: Building code, fire code, utility capacity, and life-safety standards still apply.
- –More permissive is allowed: Municipalities may allow larger ADUs, multiple ADUs, or additional housing types beyond what the state requires.
- –Local zoning controls whether ADUs are allowed at all.
- –HOA rules may still apply.
- –More permissive local rules are allowed.
What's allowed on your lot?
These are the municipality-wide rules. What's allowed on a specific property also depends on state laws, setbacks, floor area ratio, lot coverage, environmental constraints, topography, and other property-specific factors. Search your address on FutureLot to see what's allowed on your property.
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ADU rules in other Colorado municipalities
Rules change at the town line. Check the municipality your property is actually in.
Garfield County