Making The Case For Accessory Units In Denver

With the city's zoning code set to be updated, one expert urges Denver to allow the construction of granny flats to provide housing and generate rental income for families.

1 minute read

June 25, 2007, 12:00 PM PDT

By Kevin Dickson

"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."

Thanks to Fred Hammer

FULL STORY: A Place For Granny: The Case For Accessory Dwelling Units

Saturday, June 23, 2007 in The Rocky Mountain News

Housing Colorado

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