Making The Case For Accessory Units In Denver

"Fiona and Ferdinand want to buy a house and raise their young family in the city. If they rent out a basement suite, they could make the mortgage payments. Much to their dismay, they discover that such a practice is illegal. Their best option becomes a choice on the urban fringe with affordability determined by “driving till they qualify.”"

"Accessory dwelling units are making a slow comeback as an important element in new neighborhoods such as Stapleton. In established neighborhoods in Denver, however, unless you have a grandfathered unit from prior to 1956 or you live in one of a select few new planned developments, you are out of luck."

"The current updating of Denver’s zoning code offers a well-timed opportunity to give granny the rightful place she deserves."