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Broomfield Zoning & Land Use Guide

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Key Zoning Facts

Building Code Edition
2021 IBC with Broomfield Amendments
ADUs Allowed
Yes
Primary District
R-1 Single-Family Residential
Max Height
35 ft

Broomfield Zoning Overview

Broomfield is a consolidated city and county located between Denver and Boulder along the US-36 corridor. The city-county was created in 2001 when it separated from parts of four existing counties (Adams, Boulder, Jefferson, and Weld). As a consolidated government, Broomfield exercises both municipal and county authority over land use, building regulation, and planning. The zoning code establishes traditional residential, commercial, and industrial districts, with the Interlocken and Flatiron business parks serving as major employment and commercial centers.

Broomfield's comprehensive plan emphasizes balanced growth with a mix of residential, commercial, and open space uses. The city's location along the US-36 bus rapid transit corridor and proximity to the Flatiron Flyer BRT stations has influenced transit-oriented development planning. Broomfield maintains significant open space, parks, and trail systems that shape the city's character and development patterns. The 1STBANK Center and the Flatiron Crossing shopping center are notable commercial and entertainment destinations.

Community Development handles planning, zoning, and building services for the consolidated city-county government.

Key Zoning Districts

Broomfield's zoning includes R-1 (Single-Family, 7,000 sq ft lots), R-2 (Two-Family), and R-3 (Multi-Family) residential districts. Commercial districts include PBC (Planned Business Center) and Neighborhood Commercial. Planned Unit Development districts cover many newer residential communities.

ADU Regulations

Broomfield allows ADUs in residential zones under Colorado HB 24-1152. ADUs are limited to 800 square feet and 20 feet in height. No additional parking is required. Permits are processed within four to six weeks.

Development Process

Broomfield's development review includes administrative review for minor projects and Planning and Zoning Committee hearings for major applications. Building permits are handled by the Building Division.

Regulatory Layers That Apply in Broomfield

Your property is subject to ALL of these regulatory layers. Each one can impose additional requirements beyond the others.

Federal

State — Colorado

  • Building Code: 2021 IBC (locally adopted)
View Colorado zoning overview

County — Broomfield County

  • Role: Consolidated city-county; single jurisdiction handles all functions

City / Municipal

The city's zoning ordinance, building codes, and local permits form the primary layer of land-use regulation for your property.

Overlay Districts

No overlay districts identified.

Private Restrictions

  • HOA / CC&Rs common: Yes
  • Check HOA CC&Rs for additional restrictions.

Primary Zoning Districts

R-1Single-Family Residential
Min Lot
7,000 sq ft
Max Height
35 ft
Front Setback
25 ft
Side Setback
5 ft
Rear Setback
20 ft
R-3Multi-Family Residential
Min Lot
6,000 sq ft
Max Height
45 ft
Front Setback
25 ft
Side Setback
10 ft
Rear Setback
20 ft
PBCPlanned Business Center
Min Lot
None
Max Height
50 ft
Front Setback
20 ft
Side Setback
0 ft
Rear Setback
10 ft

ADU Rules in Broomfield

ADUs:Allowed
Max Size
800 sq ft
Max Height
20 ft
Rear Setback
5 ft
Side Setback
5 ft
Parking
No additional parking required
Owner Occupancy
Not required
Permit Timeline
4-6 weeks

Permit Costs & Timelines

Permit Costs & Timelines

Specific permit fee schedules for Broomfield are available from the local planning department. Fees vary based on project type, scope, and valuation.

Check Broomfield permit fees →

Official Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I build an ADU in Broomfield?
Yes. Broomfield allows ADUs on residential lots under Colorado HB 24-1152. A building permit is required.
How do I find the zoning for my property in Broomfield?
Visit the Broomfield Community Development website for zoning maps, or call (303) 438-6284.
What zones allow multi-family housing in Broomfield?
Multi-family housing is permitted in R-3 and R-4 districts, Planned Unit Development zones, and mixed-use areas.